Rossendale RUFC 54 V 28 Rochdale RUFC
The delayed start to the season had led to what was going to be a blank fixture weekend becoming today`s match. Combined with a few injuries, Rochdale was selecting a team that would have been unrecognizable at the start of the season. However, all twenty players in the squad were homegrown, a true testament to the strength of the mini and junior section of the club providing a conveyor belt producing players.
Pre-match interview with Steve Collins
A back line of Mitch Holt, Will Simmons and Gabe Fraser showed pace and strong tackling. Midfield of Luke Foden and Charlie Smith linking with half backs Danny Joesbury and Dom Serridge promised action and good rugby knowledge.
Joesbury returning to scrum-half after a full season in the backrow
The front row was the base for strong scrummaging all match, Ben Coulter, Ross Hartley, Dougie Poole, complimented with veteran Tom Callaghan, a blend of experience and strength.
Second row Jackson and Dan Bentham again displaying more strength and good technique, both in the line and the scrum, complimented second half by Joe Kershaw.
Back row provided good link up play, both carries and tackles from Harry Hayes, Ben Sunderland and James O`Connell.
Rochdale got off to a great start, Coulter going over after 3 minutes, conversion by Mitch Holt. 0-7. Rossendale got back into the match after 14 minutes, a simple conversion under the sticks. 7-7.
Following sustained pressure from Rochdale forwards, Hartley, Coulter and Poole, Harry Hayes got a try, converted by Mitch Holt. 7-14.
Hayes crashes over
For a good 15 minute spell it looked like Rochdale would prevail, but a good midfield break by Rossendale saw them equalize.
The last play of the half saw the Rochdale pack dominate once more, James O`Connell, this time at flanker broke the line (great try James). Again, Holt converted.
Half time Rochdale lead 14-21.
O'Connell scores
The conditions became worse, more wind and rain, this and the slope on Marl Pits helped Rossendale in the second half. They ran in four tries, all converted, giving Rossendale renewed belief.
Challenging conditions but Bentham winning the lineout
Replacements followed, Jack Holt, Callaghan, Max Rawlinson and Joe Kershaw all came on. More Rochdale pressure led to a break first by Simmons, then Serridge on to Sunderland to renew the Rochdale hopes, conversion by Smith. 42-28.
Sunderland clear
Bonus point try
The come back wasn`t to be, Rossendale scored two more tries, one converted. Final score 54-28. Fine performances from many players, showing the depth and ability of the Rochdale squad, especially newly blooded Max Rawlinson and Charlie Smith. This should be the turning point for the season, showing great resilience, resolve and unbreakable team spirit from the totally home grown squad.
Final whistle
Four tries scored (all by forwards), bonus point secured. Player of the match awarded to Harry Hayes.
Post-match interview with Steve Collins and Player of the Match Harry Hayes (poor audio as mic wet)
Below is a selection of video clips from the game.
Report: Greg Hayes; Photos: Tim Taylor; Interviews: Neil Sunderland; Videos: Richard Bradley