ON a night where all three points were vital, Rossendale left with the slight hope of remaining in the Carling North West Counties League next season.

Playing Penrith, just a place above Dale, the game was sure to be close.

From the first 45 minutes, play was equal with both sides creating chances.

Rossendale continued to battle in the second half and a late substitution paid off when Scott McQuarrie put Dale in front in the 87th minute.

Then keeper Johnson made a good save to give Rossendale three crucial points and a boost to their morale.

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