The Wham Stadium was the scene of a pulsating encounter as Hartlepool United secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Rochdale in the English National League. In a match that demonstrated dramatic twists and turns, it was the visitors who ultimately left with all three points, thanks to a brace from Luke Charman and a resilient defensive display.
Hartlepool United began the brighter of the two sides, and their early pressure yielded a reward in the 21st minute. A well-worked move saw Adam Campbell deliver a precise pass to Maxim Kouogun, who opened the scoring for Hartlepool. The goal appeared to galvanise the visitors, and they doubled their advantage just seven minutes later. Once again, Adam Campbell was instrumental, providing another assist for Luke Charman to find the back of the net, establishing a commanding 2-0 lead for Hartlepool United.
Rochdale, facing a two-goal deficit, began to find their rhythm as the first half drew to a close. They started to assert more control in midfield and create opportunities, but were unable to find a breakthrough before the interval. Tactical adjustments made by Rochdale’s management team at halftime were evident as they emerged for the second period with renewed intent.
The home side pushed for a way back into the game, and their persistence was rewarded in the 79th minute. Substitute Ian Henderson, introduced just minutes earlier, latched onto a pass from Tobi Adebayo-Rowling and successfully reduced the deficit to 2-1. The goal injected a fresh wave of optimism into the Wham Stadium, and Rochdale committed players forward in search of an equaliser.
However, Hartlepool United, despite being pegged back, demonstrated considerable resolve. They defended resolutely, with every player contributing to the defensive effort, and managed to weather the late pressure from Rochdale. As the final whistle sounded, it was Hartlepool United who celebrated a crucial away victory.
The win sees Hartlepool United climb to ninth in the English National League standings with 37 points from 25 games, continuing their steady campaign. Rochdale, meanwhile, despite the loss, remain in a strong position, sitting third in the league with 52 points from 22 games, though this result will be a disappointment after a strong run of form.