Rochdale cruised to a 2-0 victory over Aldershot Town at the EBB Stadium, leaving the Shots searching for answers. The visitors asserted their dominance from the outset, orchestrating a flowing move in the 13th minute that culminated in the opening goal. Tobi Adebayo-Rowling’s incisive pass found Kairo Mitchell, who coolly slotted the ball past the Aldershot goalkeeper. Aldershot struggled to establish any control in midfield, frequently overrun by a dynamic Rochdale side.
Rochdale doubled their lead in the 27th minute, showcasing their attacking prowess with another well-constructed goal. This time, Mitchell turned provider, setting up Devante Rodney, who finished with aplomb. Aldershot’s frustration became increasingly evident as the half wore on, culminating in a yellow card for Rollin Menayese for a rash challenge shortly before the break.
In an attempt to salvage something from the match, Aldershot made a triple substitution just after the hour mark, introducing Jack Barham, Josh Barrett, and Ryan Jones for Kai Corbett, James Henry, and Oliver Scott respectively. The changes signalled a more attacking intent from the home side. However, Rochdale’s defence remained resolute, expertly nullifying any nascent Aldershot attacks. Yellow cards for Jake Burger, Christian Maghoma, and substitute Josh Barrett underlined the home side’s growing desperation. Rochdale, in contrast, made a series of substitutions, refreshing their midfield and defence to comfortably see out the game.
Despite late pressure from Aldershot, Rochdale held firm to secure a deserved victory, a result that elevates them to third in the National League table, while Aldershot remain in eighth. Coming into the match, both sides had identical records against each other in recent seasons, with each team winning one of their two previous encounters.