ROSSENDALE bounced back from FA Cup disappointment to record their third league win in a row against a physical Leek Town side in the UniBond First Division.

In what was an appalling first half, it was 36 minutes before either side could muster an attempt on goal.

The only piece of football brought what proved to be the winner.

Gary Williams was played in down the left and his cut back was rifled in to the top corner by Craig Sargeson for his first of the campaign.

The game improved after the break with both sides attempting to up the tempo and playing some better football.

Leek had the better of the early chances, Johnson heading wide when unmarked and Whittaker's attempt on the turn lacked power as he fell in the process of shooting.

Jordan Aspin and Chris Scott took control at the back, coping well with the aerial bombardment, protecting keeper Mark Andrews in the Dale goal from any real action after that, and it was Rossendale who looked more likely to add to their tally as time progressed.

In the final 15 minutes, Dale had three decent chances. Brett Baxter fired wide from the edge of the box, Gardner was unlucky with a cross shot and deep into injury time Williams raced clear of the defence only to pull his shot well wide.

ROSSENDALE UTD...1 LEEK TOWN...0