Scrum half Matty Crowe was in commanding form - Rob Thorn somewhat surprised to learn after the game that his playmaker was still only 17.
Lewis Wilson, the Colts full back but playing on the wing, scored a tremendous solo try (pictured) with winger Joe Willis and fly half Jonnie Heal also making major contributions.
Second row John Bunter was also outstanding on his first team debut. He took at least three Rochdale throws at the line-out and had skipper Danny Boatman raving about his contribution after the game.
The game was played in four sessions - the third lasting half an hour when the ref Mark Jude forgot to restart his watch - with a well contested first period ending scoreless.
The youngsters put some good running rugby together after that and West went into a three try lead. Danny Quinn was the first on the scoresheet (above) after he finished off a slick move up the left with that Wilson try next.
Luke Mallinson looked fit and fast throughout and got his reward with a try in the right hand corner.
Dale came back as the afternoon wore on - rumbling their way over fior the first score and deservedly equalising the try count at three apiece right at the end.
A more than useful start for both clubs.