The BURKS

Macclesfield eased the pressure on manager David Moss with a stirring second-half fightback to seal victory over Rochdale.

Danny Whittaker's superb free-kick wrapped up the points for the Silkmen to give them their first win in six games.

After dominating the first half, Macclesfield went a goal down when on-loan Manchester City youngster Chris Shuker was released by French striker Mickel Antoine-Curier.

The unmarked Shuker danced into the box before gleefully steering the ball into the far corner.

But Moss' team then showed the grit and determination which had been lacking from recent performances and they drew level in the 64th minute.

Danny Adams made a strong tackle to dispossess Wayne Evans on the edge of the box before drilling a low cross into the six yard box where the unfortunate Daryl Burgess turned the ball into his own net.

Macclesfield might have taken the lead immediately but Colin Little could only shoot straight at Matt Gilks from 10 yards after he was picked out by John Miles.

But they were not to be denied and their persistence paid off as they scored a fine winner 17 minutes from time.

Michael Simpkins brought down Miles on the edge of the box and Whittaker earned Moss a vital three points with a curling shot around the wall for his fourth goal of the season.