Wealdstone breathed new life into their National League survival bid with a crucial 2-0 victory over Rochdale at Grosvenor Vale. A cagey first half saw both sides struggle to carve out clear-cut opportunities. Rochdale enjoyed the lion’s share of possession, probing patiently around the Wealdstone penalty area, but the hosts’ defence stood firm, repelling their advances. The teams went into the break goalless, the game delicately poised.
The second half, however, began with an immediate breakthrough for Wealdstone. Mere seconds after the restart, Max Kretzschmar fired the home side into the lead, expertly converting a clever assist from Jayden Mundle-Smith. The goal galvanised Wealdstone and visibly knocked the stuffing out of Rochdale, who responded with a flurry of substitutions in an attempt to regain a foothold in the match.
Despite Rochdale’s renewed efforts, Wealdstone’s defence remained resolute, absorbing the pressure and looking increasingly dangerous on the counter-attack. Their growing threat culminated in a second goal in the 67th minute. A swift, incisive move was finished off with aplomb by Kallum Cesay, with Sam Ashford providing the assist. Cesay’s strike effectively sealed the three points for Wealdstone, igniting jubilant celebrations amongst the home faithful.
Rochdale’s attempts to find a way back into the game proved fruitless, their frustration evident in the closing stages. Aidan Barlow’s late yellow card for a foul epitomised their struggles. Wealdstone comfortably navigated the remaining minutes, expertly managing the game to secure a well-deserved victory.
The win lifts Wealdstone to 20th in the National League table, providing a vital boost in their fight against relegation. Rochdale, meanwhile, remain in 6th. The victory marks Wealdstone’s second win against Rochdale in their brief recent history, levelling the head-to-head record after each side had previously won one match apiece.