LEIGH RMI 1ROSSENDALE 0

ROSSENDALE gave a good account of themselves against Conference outfit Leigh RMI in the Marsden Lancashire Challenge Trophy and came agonisingly close to forcing extra time.

The first half saw a confident Dale performance, missing Craig Sargeson and Gary Rishton through injury and suspension. However, Ged Walsh returned to turn in a powerful performance alongside Steve Bird.

Matt Houldsworth contained highly rated winger Steve Jones as Dale restricted the home side -- three league's above them --to just two long-range shot.

At the other end, David Gray went close while Jerome Fitzgerald shot wide and John Borland continued to work hard.

As Leigh stepped up a gear Mark Andrews did well on a couple of occasions. The home side made two subs and tested Dale's resolve with some slick moves, one proving decisive on 67 minutes to win the tie.