Rochdale welcome Gateshead to the Crown Oil Arena for a National League clash, with both teams keen to influence their respective trajectories. Rochdale will be looking to maintain their impressive early-season form, while Gateshead aim to capitalise on their recent success and ascend the league standings.
Rochdale have enjoyed a fine start to the campaign, currently on a two-match winning run. Their attack has been fruitful in both games, resulting in a favourable goal difference. Gateshead, following a somewhat erratic beginning, come into this match buoyed by a victory, having found the back of the net in their last fixture.
The head-to-head record illustrates a competitive history. Over the past three seasons, the sides have met on four occasions, with Rochdale holding a marginal advantage with two wins to Gateshead’s one, alongside a single draw. Rochdale have registered four goals in those contests, compared to Gateshead’s three. Last season, Rochdale claimed a tight 1-0 victory away at Gateshead, thanks to a Robbie Tinkler own goal, and replicated the scoreline at home with a goal from Tarryn Allarakhia.
In the current league table, Rochdale reside in 5th place with a flawless record of two wins from two matches, accumulating six points and showcasing a goal difference of +3. Gateshead occupy a lower position in 14th, with one win and one defeat, three points, and a goal difference of -1.
A win for Rochdale would consolidate their position near the summit of the league, prolonging their winning streak and providing a considerable boost to their early-season aspirations. For Gateshead, a win would signify a precious three points on their travels, lifting them up the standings and injecting vital momentum into their campaign. A draw would see Rochdale preserve their unbeaten start, while Gateshead would secure a point, but potentially impede their progress towards the playoff places. Both teams recognise the importance of this fixture, promising a potentially enthralling encounter.
