Rochdale 1 Bury 2 by Phil Thorp: SHAKERS got their crucial Easter programme off to a flying start at Spotland with a deserved derby victory that moved them up to fifth place and into the heart of the play-off places.

The Shakers took the lead after 23 minutes when inspirational skipper Michael Nelson powerfully headed home a pinpoint free-kick from Lee Connell after Jon Newby had been brought down.

But they did not have it all their own way and Steve Redmond had to be alert to put in a crucial tackle on Dale dangerman Paul Connor. And when the home side did level in the 34th minute it came courtesy of a Bury player.

Player-boss Paul Simpson picked out Darren Hockenhull on the right wing, and his driven cross into the six yard box was sliced into his own net by left back Jamie Stuart.

The second period was not as much of a spectacle as the first but that did not worry the Shakers who grabbed the only goal of the half after 71 minutes.

A fine ball from Chris Billy sent Cramb scurrying into the box with Grand in pursuit. Cramb pushed the ball past the young Rochdale stopper who, in turn sent the Shakers striker tumbling to the deck and Wirral referee Mike Dean had no hesitation in pointing to the spot for a rare Shakers penalty.

Cramb was then coolness personified as he calmly sent Gilks the wrong way to score Shakers' winner.

"It's a massive boost to pick up those three points," said Bury boss Andy Preece. "You have to show passion and desire in derby games and that's just what we did."

FORMGUIDE: Garner 8, Connell 7 (Unsworth, 90), Stuart 7, Nelson 9,Redmond 7, Woodthorpe 7, Billy 8, Clegg 7, Nugent 7 (Forrest, 79), Cramb 8,Newby 7. Subs not used: Preece, Dunfield and O'Shaughnessy.

Referee: Mr M. Dean (Wirral)

Attendance: 4,513