Late Vale Fightback Breaks Rochdale Hearts in Thrilling Contest

Rochdale 28 Vale of Lune 32

Rochdale were left to rue a dramatic late score as Vale of Lune snatched victory with the final play of an absorbing encounter, turning a 17-point deficit into a 32-28 triumph.

Tom Callaghan pre-match interview

Rochdale forwards coach Tom Callaghan explains how the players have worked hard on their physicality and adapting to using the five man bench. This second season at Level 5 should be a great platform to bring forwards the youth in the Rochdale squad.

Rochdale minis leading the team on to the pitch

The hosts made the perfect start and looked in complete control during the opening stages. Well-executed set-piece moves led to tries from Johnston and O'Connell, helping Rochdale race into a 14-0 lead.

Scrum on the halfway

Rochdale forwards worked hard in the set pieces.

However, the game turned when influential backs Horne and Donnelly, both enjoying excellent afternoons and repeatedly breaking the defensive line, were forced off through injury. With only one replacement back available, Rochdale were forced to reorganise their backline, reducing much of their attacking threat.

Schofield was a constant attacking threat to Vale's defence helped by the pace of Serridge's pass.

But despite dominating large portions of the first half, Rochdale's discipline and game management began to let them down. A series of penalties allowed Vale of Lune back into the contest and the visitors closed the gap to leave the score at 14-8 at the interval.

Rochdale responded impressively after the break and appeared to have one hand on the result. Further tries from Sunderland and Schofield extended their advantage to a seemingly comfortable 28-11 lead, with the home side controlling territory and possession.

Bateman at 8 combined well with Serridge at 9, punching holes in the Vale defence and getting Rochdale over the gain-line to really put some pace on the Rochdale attack.

But just as victory appeared within reach, discipline issues again proved costly. Continued disputes with the referee resulted in Rochdale being reduced to 14 men for the closing stages, handing Vale of Lune a lifeline.

The visitors took full advantage, crossing twice in the final 10 minutes. With Rochdale desperately defending their line, Vale of Lune struck with the last play of the game to complete a remarkable comeback and leave the home crowd stunned.

Despite the heartbreaking defeat, Rochdale produced several outstanding individual performances. Jacob Jackson was deservedly named man of the match after a tireless display featuring powerful carries and significant yardage around the field.

He was well supported by Sunderland and Bateman in the pack, while Schofield and Serridge posed a constant attacking threat in the backs throughout an entertaining but ultimately frustrating afternoon for Rochdale.