Rochdale sprint through finish line to play-offs

A STELLAR performance from Dale saw Jim McNulty’s side run out comprehensive 5-1 winners over Hartlepool United on Saturday.

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A Devante Rodney goal in each half, as well as goals from Ian Henderson, Leon Ayinde and the returning Jay Bird ensured Dale not only completed a resounding home victory but also confirmed our place in the end-of-season play-offs.

Four changes were made from Monday's draw with AFC Fylde as Ethan Ebanks-Landell, Tarryn Allarakhia, Ayinde and Henderson all come in with Bird back for a place on the bench.

It would be a lightning start to the game as Dale earned themselves a spot-kick within five minutes. Killian Barrett's forward ball found Henderson whose exquisite touch teed up Rodney, he sent a teasing ball through to Ayinde, the loanee brought down by visiting goalkeeper Adam Smith. Rodney stepped up and ruthlessly kept up his scoring streak to break the deadlock.