Rochdale welcome FC Halifax Town to the Crown Oil Arena for a contest laden with ambition for both clubs. Rochdale have their sights firmly set on the league’s summit, while Halifax are eager to surge into playoff contention, setting the stage for a captivating match.
Rochdale are currently enjoying a remarkable run of form, having strung together six consecutive victories. Their attack has been particularly potent, demonstrating consistency by scoring in their last ten matches. FC Halifax Town arrive with their own momentum, remaining undefeated in their previous four outings and finding the net in each of those games.
Past meetings between these two sides have been tightly fought affairs. Over the last three seasons, they have clashed four times, with each team securing a single victory and the remaining two matches ending in a draw. Last season, Rochdale clinched a 2-1 victory on home turf, with Kyron Gordon and Connor McBride finding the net, while Billy Waters responded for Halifax. The return fixture concluded in a goalless draw.
In the league standings, Rochdale currently occupy a strong second position. After ten games, they have accumulated an impressive 27 points, courtesy of nine wins and a single defeat. Their goal difference of 17, having scored 22 goals and conceded just 5, underscores their strength in both attack and defence. FC Halifax Town currently sit in tenth place with 18 points from 12 games, recording five wins, three draws, and four losses. Their goal difference is -2, having scored 18 and conceded 20.
A victory for Rochdale would further cement their position near the top of the table and extend their impressive winning streak, boosting morale and intensifying their promotion push. For FC Halifax Town, a win would represent a significant coup, propelling them closer to the playoff positions and injecting confidence into their campaign. A draw would arguably favour Halifax, preserving their unbeaten run and securing a valuable point on the road, while Rochdale might view it as a missed opportunity to gain ground on their rivals.