ROSSENDALE chalked up their first win in the Group Stages of the UniBond Cup with a victory over fellow First Division opponents Marine.

Jim McCluskie's side have lost to Burscough and Radcliffe in the early cup games but got themselves in with a shout of the knock out stages with the win at Marine.

It was a victory Dale desperately needed following four winless games - although that includes the two draws the Dark Lane side fought in the FA Cup third qualifying round with Barrow before losing on penalties.

"It didn't matter what competition we were in, we needed a win to lift our confidence again," said McCluksie.

"And Marine is a hard place to go to and win. Nine of our side had never been there before but we came through and it builds us up for a big game on Saturday when we take on Eastwood."

Dale scored early doors through Steve Cunningham - his second of the season. He cut in from the right and drilled the ball into the far corner of the net on 25 minutes.

"That was a good goal but the next was even better," enthused the boss.

The second came through Danny Heys, he got the ball in midfield and hit a volley from about 30 yards which looped over the keeper.

With a 2-0 lead at half time, Dale were always comfortable and will now look to build on the win when they make the trip to Eastwood who are flying high with Dale in the league.

RESULT: MARINE...0 ROSSENDALE...2