ROSSENDALE recorded their 12th away win of the season thanks to a single goal from substitute Gareth Gardiner.

A tactical switch by manager Jim McCluskie in the early part of the second half saw Gardiner thrown into action, and he repaid the manager's faith with the winner.

On a bone-hard, bumpy pitch, both sides struggled to get their passing games together, and clear chances were limited in what was a scrappy match.

Dale should have been ahead in the ninth minute. Dave Gardiner was fouled in the area but the usually reliable Craig Sargeson managed to miss the spot kick twice.

His first effort was saved by Liam Sutcliffe, but the officials ordered a retake and he placed his second attempt wide of the goal.

Michael Midwood hit the side netting with a volley from the edge of the box with Farsley's only real effort of the first half, before Dave Gardiner lobbed the keeper, only to see his effort hit the bar after he pounced on Sutcliffe's poor clearance.

Sargeson wasted another great chance five minutes after the break, Dave Gardiner's cross finding the striker free, but his tame header went straight at the keeper.

Billy Carrington, who kept his second clean sheet in four days, then produced the save of the game to deny Stuart Beech before Gareth Gardiner grabbed the winner on 65 minutes. His brother Dave slid the ball through to him and he powered his shot past the keeper at the near post.

Lee Connor wasted a great chance to equalise with seven minutes left, heading a free kick over the bar when left all alone six yards from goal, but Dale hung on to keep their slim play off hopes alive.

FARSLEY CELTIC...0 ROSSENDALE UTD...1