Solihull Moors continued their impressive run against Rochdale with a hard-fought 2-1 victory at the Crown Oil Arena, a ground where their recent history has been particularly fruitful. A Conor Wilkinson brace ultimately proved the difference, despite a late Rochdale rally that set up a tense finish.
Just four minutes into the match, Solihull manager Andy Whing signalled his intentions with a tactical substitution, bringing on Bradley Stevenson for Matthew Warburton. This change seemed to solidify the visitors’ approach, which centred on disciplined defending and swift counter-attacks. The strategy paid dividends in the 26th minute. A rapid break caught Rochdale off guard, allowing Wilkinson to coolly slot the ball past the home goalkeeper and give the Moors the lead. Solihull continued to frustrate their opponents, effectively limiting Rochdale’s opportunities throughout the remainder of the first half. The intensity of the midfield battle was evident in the 33rd minute when Stevenson received a yellow card for a rash challenge.
Rochdale manager Jimmy McNulty responded at half-time, introducing Jake Burger in an attempt to inject more attacking impetus. The change initially seemed to have the desired effect, with the Dale starting the second half brightly and pressing for an equaliser. However, against the run of play, Solihull extended their advantage in the 59th minute. Once again, it was Wilkinson who found space in the Rochdale defence, clinically dispatching his second goal of the afternoon. Rochdale’s frustration grew, symbolised by Kairo Mitchell’s booking for a foul in the 65th minute. The game then entered a period of tactical adjustments, with both managers making further substitutions. Rochdale’s commitment to attack finally yielded a goal in the 86th minute, as Mitchell redeemed himself for his earlier indiscretion by heading home to reduce the deficit to 2-1. The closing stages were frantic, with Rochdale throwing everything forward in search of a leveller. However, Solihull’s resolute defence held firm, epitomised by Joe Newton’s late yellow card for time-wasting as the Moors desperately clung to their slender lead. The final whistle confirmed a valuable victory for Solihull, maintaining their 100% record against Rochdale in recent seasons. The result saw Rochdale slip from 2nd to 5th in the National League table, while Solihull climbed to 8th.