In a high-scoring match at Mill Farm, Rochdale secured a convincing 3-1 victory over AFC Fylde in the English National League. The encounter witnessed several dramatic goal sequences and tactical adjustments that significantly influenced the outcome.
The match commenced with AFC Fylde’s Gavin Massey scoring in the fifth minute, providing his team with an early 1-0 lead. However, Rochdale responded swiftly, with Kairo Mitchell equalising in the 18th minute courtesy of a clever assist from Devante Rodney. This marked Mitchell’s second goal against AFC Fylde this season, with the head-to-head record between the two teams standing at one win each in their last two meetings, with no draws.
The first half concluded with the score locked at 1-1, but Rochdale emerged stronger in the second half. In the 56th minute, Harvey Gilmour scored a crucial goal, putting Rochdale ahead 2-1. Eight minutes later, Kairo Mitchell scored again, this time with an assist from Aidan Barlow, to extend Rochdale’s lead to 3-1.
AFC Fylde made several tactical substitutions in an attempt to turnaround the match, but Rochdale’s defence held firm. Ethan Mitchell was booked for a foul in the 84th minute, which was the home team’s best chance to reduce the deficit.
As the match drew to a close, both teams made further substitutions, with Rochdale introducing fresh legs to maintain their advantage. The visitors’ victory marked their 12th win of the season, with 39 points from 22 matches, moving them up to sixth place in the league standings. They are now just six points behind third-placed Wrexham, who have 45 points from 23 matches.
AFC Fylde slipped to 22nd place, having earned 22 points from 24 matches. Despite the loss, they will aim to regroup and build on their recent form, which has seen them score in three consecutive matches. This was their fifth loss in the last seven matches, and they will strive to rediscover their winning touch in the upcoming fixtures.
Rochdale will look to continue their winning streak in their next fixture, having won their last match. With their recent form and convincing performance against AFC Fylde, they will be confident of achieving a top-seven finish in the league.