Rochdale host AFC Fylde at the Crown Oil Arena in a match that highlights the differing fortunes of the two clubs. With the Coasters already relegated, the home side will be looking to finish the season strongly and secure their play-off spot. This game presents a contrast in motivation: Rochdale aiming to solidify their position, while Fylde are playing for pride alone.
The Dale come into this match in good form, having won their last two games and finding the net regularly. Their confident performances stand in stark contrast to AFC Fylde’s current situation. The Coasters arrive on the back of a five-game losing streak, a period defined by their struggles after conceding the first goal.
Historically, Rochdale have had the upper hand in this relatively new rivalry, winning two of the three meetings in the past three seasons. Earlier this season, on Boxing Day at Mill Farm, Rochdale secured a 3-1 victory. Kairo Mitchell scored twice, and Harvey Gilmour added another, overturning Gavin Massey’s early goal for Fylde. Last season’s Boxing Day fixture at Spotland also went Rochdale’s way, ending 2-0 with goals from Ian Henderson and Kwaku Oduroh. However, Fylde did manage a 2-0 victory at home on New Year’s Day, with Danny Ormerod bagging a second-half brace.
In the league table, Rochdale occupy 5th place with 67 points from 42 games, boasting a healthy goal difference of +22. AFC Fylde, however, find themselves in 23rd, with 39 points from 43 games and a goal difference of -31. AFC Fylde’s relegation was confirmed following a 0-1 loss to FC Halifax Town.
For Rochdale, a victory would consolidate their play-off ambitions and maintain their momentum heading into the season’s climax. A draw would still be a satisfactory result, preserving the gap between themselves and the teams chasing them. However, defeat could potentially dent their confidence and allow rivals to close in. For AFC Fylde, already relegated, a win would offer a small measure of solace after a difficult season and something to build on for the future. A draw or another loss would only further emphasise the challenges they have faced this campaign.