Gateshead’s winless streak was extended to a concerning thirteen matches as Rochdale secured a comfortable 2-0 victory at the Gateshead International Stadium. The visitors, firmly entrenched in the promotion hunt, demonstrated their class with two second-half goals that ultimately sealed the three points.
From the outset, Rochdale imposed themselves on the game, their confident passing and movement creating early inroads. Gateshead, however, remained resolute, their defensive shape frustrating the visitors for large spells of the opening period. The home side struggled to create any clear-cut opportunities, their attacking forays often breaking down before reaching the final third.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 32nd minute. Devante Rodney, instrumental in Rochdale’s attacking play, threaded a pass to Manny Duku. The striker made no mistake, slotting the ball home to give Rochdale a deserved lead. Despite the setback, Gateshead continued to battle, but they lacked the creative spark to unlock the Rochdale defence before the half-time whistle.
The second half saw Gateshead attempt to inject more urgency into their play. Manager Rob Elliot introduced Mark Beck from the bench in the 55th minute, a tactical shift aimed at providing a more direct threat up front. However, Rochdale’s defensive structure remained largely untroubled.
Jimmy McNulty, the Rochdale manager, responded to Gateshead’s increased pressure with a series of substitutions designed to maintain control and see out the game. Tarryn Allarakhia and Manny Duku made way for Ian Henderson and Bryant Bilongo respectively in the 60th minute. The introduction of fresh legs and tactical adjustments helped Rochdale regain their composure. Devante Rodney, who had provided the assist for the opening goal, was replaced by Connor McBride in the 66th minute. Gateshead continued to shuffle their pack, bringing on Fenton John for Louis Storey in the 68th minute, and later David Tutonda, Casey Pettit, Dominic Telford, Josh Home, and Max Melbourne were all introduced in quick succession during the latter stages of the match as Gateshead pushed for an equaliser.
However, any hopes of a comeback were extinguished in the 87th minute. A swift counter-attacking move by Rochdale saw Tobi Adebayo-Rowling deliver a precise pass to Ryan East. East made no mistake, firing home to double Rochdale’s advantage and put the game beyond doubt.
The victory sees Rochdale consolidate their position near the top of the English National League table, further strengthening their promotion aspirations. Gateshead, meanwhile, remain in the lower reaches of the division, their difficult campaign showing little sign of immediate improvement. The result leaves Gateshead in 24th place with 19 points from 26 games, while Rochdale climb to 4th with 55 points from 23 games, highlighting the stark contrast in their league fortunes.
