STOCKSBRIDGE have been one side that have surprised Rossendale's Jim McCluskie this season - for the wrong reasons.

Rossendale make the trip to Sheffield tomorrow on the back of a run of one loss in seven games which has reignited their UniBond First Division promotion push.

Stocksbridge were tipped as one of the pre season favourites for the title - but they are currently seventh from bottom with just six wins this season.

"I have talked to a few managers and all have been surprised that Stocksbridge aren't up there," said the Dale chief. "They finished around fourth last season and a lot was expected of them this season but they have had some mixed results.

"Saying that they have strung some results together lately."

But so have Rossendale who have won their last two games - both on their travels.

"That has obviously bred confidence and we are at last beginning to get a settled squad together," said McCluskie. "That is what I want, a settled 16 or 17, as we haven't had for most of the season. We had nine out injured at one time but they are now coming back."

Striker Dave Gray is still about a month away, although he is now off his crutches, while most are back in contention.

And McCluskie has been impressed with his new frontman Troy Hayder, a former Leigh RMI striker, who scored on his debut last week.

"He has unbelievable pace. It is frightening. He is something totally different to the other strikers at the club and he is a breath of fresh air. I can't wait until he has half a dozen games under his belt, when is fully match fit, and he is used to the system we play."