ROSSENDALE raced into the third qualifying round of the FA Cup - and a tie at Barrow - after a stunning success in Bradford.

Despite national newspapers reporting a 3-0 reverse, Dale came through to claim the £7,500 bonus.

The UniBond League outfit were rarely in trouble after they stormed into a three goal lead inside 25 minutes leaving NCE League side Thackley with a mountain to climb.

Rossendale made their intentions known from the off with Gareth Gardner sending a drive just wide of the target in the opening minutes.

On 11 minutes they duly broke the deadlock when Mark Patterson picked up a loose ball and provided the perfect cross for Ged Walsh to head home. Gardner continued to get behind the Thackley defence and three minutes later Craig Sargeson hit the post with a shot following a cross from that particularly potent source.

The same provider laid on the second goal leaving David Gray with a simple tap-in on 21 minutes and four minutes later it was three for Dale as Steve Bird headed past the Thackley keeper from a Darren Bowman corner. Dale keeper Mark Andrews was rarely tested but remained alert and made two good saves from Thackley raids.

The second half opened with United almost adding to their tally as a 30-yard free kick from Bowman rattled the home side's crossbar.

However, Dale took their foot off the gas and comfortably strolled into the draw for the next round.

RESULT: THACKLEY...0 ROSSENDALE UTD...3