In a hard-fought encounter at the Mazuma Mobile Stadium, Rochdale emerged victorious with a 2-1 win against Morecambe in the English National League. The match, characterised by periods of intense pressure and shifts in momentum, was ultimately decided by a late strike from Harvey Gilmour.
The first half remained goalless for an extended period, with both teams probing for an opening. However, just before the interval, Rochdale broke the deadlock. A well-worked move saw Ian Henderson find the back of the net in the 45th minute, assisted by Nathan Broome, to give the visitors a crucial lead.
Morecambe returned for the second half with renewed determination and found an immediate equaliser. Jack Nolan struck for the home side in the 47th minute, levelling the scores at 1-1 and injecting fresh life into the contest.
The game remained finely balanced, with neither team able to establish clear dominance. Tactical adjustments were made by both sides as they sought to gain an advantage. In the 63rd minute, Morecambe introduced Paul Lewis. Rochdale responded by bringing on Tyler Smith, and later Devante Rodney. A further change for Rochdale in the 71st minute saw Devante Rodney replace Connor McBride. Morecambe also looked to bolster their attacking options, with Alie Sesay and Rolando Aarons making way for Admiral Muskwe and Mo Sangare respectively in the 75th minute.
The decisive moment arrived in the 80th minute when Harvey Gilmour scored for Rochdale, assisted by Jake Burger, to restore their lead at 2-1. Despite late efforts from Morecambe, including the introduction of Elijah Dixon-Bonner in the 88th minute, Rochdale held firm to secure all three points.
The match saw a number of bookings. Joe Pritchard of Rochdale received a yellow card in the 27th minute for a foul. Paul Lewis of Morecambe was cautioned in the 71st minute, followed by Ethan Ebanks-Landell of Rochdale in the 78th minute, both for fouls. Ludwig Francillette of Morecambe also entered the referee’s book in the 85th minute.
This victory continues Rochdale’s impressive league form, maintaining their position at the top of the English National League. They have now secured 17 wins from 21 matches, accumulating 52 points, and are demonstrating the hallmarks of a championship-contending side with a formidable goal difference. Morecambe, meanwhile, find themselves in a more precarious position in the league table. Following this defeat, they sit in 22nd place with 20 points from 24 games, having recorded five wins, five draws, and 14 losses. Their goal difference of -23 highlights the challenges they have faced this season.