Boston United secured a dramatic 3-2 victory against Rochdale at the Crown Oil Arena, a ground where they have historically struggled, overturning the form book and their opponents’ league position. The visitors stunned the home crowd with two goals in quick succession midway through the first half. In the 25th minute, Jacob Hazel capitalised on a defensive lapse to give Boston the lead. Just three minutes later, the advantage was doubled when Zak Mills, assisted by Jordan Richards, found the back of the net. A visibly shaken Rochdale struggled to respond and went into the half-time break two goals down.
Rochdale manager made an immediate change for the second half, replacing Jili Buyabu with Ian Henderson. Despite the attacking substitution, it was Boston who extended their lead. A slick passing move in the 69th minute culminated in Jimmy Knowles finding the net, with Cameron Green providing the assist, to make it 3-0. Although the game seemed beyond Rochdale’s reach, the home side rallied. A triple substitution in the 76th minute, which included the introduction of Kairo Mitchell, breathed new life into their attack. Mitchell’s impact was immediate, assisting Henderson’s goal in the 80th minute. The comeback gained further momentum just eight minutes later when Mitchell again turned provider, setting up Jay Bird to reduce the deficit to a single goal. Despite a frantic final few minutes, Boston held on for a vital victory, climbing to 21st in the National League table. Rochdale, meanwhile, remain in 7th place after a second-half fightback that ultimately fell short. The result avenged Rochdale’s comfortable 3-0 victory over Boston earlier in the season, highlighting the unpredictable nature of football.