LEIGH RMI showed their Conference class as they ran out 2-1 winners over UniBond new boys Rossendale United.
Dale's Jody Banim fired a shot just wide in the early stages before Leigh took the lead when former Wigan player Tony Black, from Burnley, was given far too much time in the penalty area and fired home.
Dave Gray had one good opportunity to get Dale back into it but Leigh extended their lead just two minutes into the second half. Steve Bird's back header fell short and a Leigh striker nipped in to beat Horridge.
Just a minute later Dale were back in it when Gardiner's free kick was converted past his own keeper by a Leigh defender. It was a boost for Dale but they couldn't get the equaliser.
ROSSENDALE UTD 1 LEIGH RMI 2
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