Rochdale sprint through finish line to play-offs

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE

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

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.

Ayinde then nipped in moments later on the Pools defence as he burst down on goal, however a recovering block saw the ball go wide for a corner.