A second string Dale side crashed 3-1 at Southport, whilst the first team watched from the sidelines ahead of a behind closed door match against the Liverpool first team on Sunday morning.

A team consisting of reserves and trialists made the annual pre-season visit to Haig Avenue and found themselves outclassed by an impressive looking Southport side that were worthy winners.

The Dale side contained a number of trialists: former Shrewsbury keeper Ben Smith, ex Carlisle striker Craig Curran and last season's loanee Sean McConville. They were joined by trialists Ian Craney and Ray Putterill who are likely to be given short term deals according to manager John Coleman.

As for the game, well we were never in it, and we were quickly behind after Sam Minihan gave away a penalty. That lead was doubled shortly after a cool volley by Benjamin.

That lead was increased further just into the second half when Bakare was given more space than you get on Southport beach and there were fears that a battering could be on the cards.

The lead was reduced in the final minute when Neill Byrne headed home from a corner, but ultimately that goal probably flattered Dale somewhat.

But let it be said, the only thing that we learned from this game is that a Conference first team is better than our second string, which we'd all have pretty much assumed anyway.

Our best peformer on the day was probably Brian Barry-Murphy, with few others impressing or doing much to warrant their trial becoming a contract.

Photo: Action Images

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