THIS season's two previous derby meetings had ended in stalemates and another draw may have looked the likely outcome.

But that was far from what happened with United continuing their run to make it only one defeat in 15 games.

With a scoreline of 4-0 you might have thought that popular visiting keeper John Morrey was the busiest man on the pitch in this FNWTL Challenge Cup first round tie . . . but that was not the case.

That honour went to referee Mr David Unsworth of Bolton who appeared intent on booking all 22 players in what was not a dirty game - he booked nine players in the first half.

Matt Knowles opened the scoring in the 31st minute with a long range shot that left Morrey with no chance as it flew into the top right-hand corner. Four minutes later, local schoolboy Vinnie Patterson hit a cross/shot from near the right-hand touchline that again left Morrey without a chance as it went in the top left-hand corner. Dale supporters had to wait until the final 10 minutes before they had another goal to cheer. Top scorer Craig Sargeson hit the third long range goal of the day, this time from just outside the box. In the last minute of the game Danny Heys - making his 100th appearance for the club - made it four.

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