In a dramatic turn of events at Damson Park, Rochdale snatched a victory from the jaws of a draw with a solitary goal in the dying embers of stoppage time. The English National League encounter, refereed by Alan Dale, saw Solihull Moors left to rue missed opportunities as Joe Pritchard’s late intervention secured all three points for the visitors.
The first half was a cagey affair, with both sides struggling to assert dominance. Solihull Moors, playing on their home turf, looked to build from the back, but Rochdale’s disciplined defence stifled any clear openings. The Moors’ attacking intent was evident, but a lack of precision in the final third meant that neither goalkeeper was truly tested in the opening forty-five minutes. Rochdale, meanwhile, appeared content to absorb pressure and look for opportunities on the counter, though their own attacking forays were equally blunted by resolute defending.
The second half saw a shift in tactical approach from Rochdale, as a flurry of substitutions around the hour mark signalled a clear intent to change the game’s complexion. Devante Rodney was withdrawn for Tyler Smith in the 61st minute, followed by Bryant Bilongo replacing Connor McBride and Ian Henderson coming on for Manny Duku shortly after. These changes aimed to inject fresh impetus and attacking threat into the side.
Solihull Moors also made tactical adjustments to try and break the deadlock. In the 72nd minute, Bradley Stevenson was introduced for Jacob Wakeling, and Oscar Rutherford replaced Darius Lipsiuc, suggesting a desire to push higher up the pitch and create more attacking options. Despite these strategic moves, the game remained stubbornly goalless for the vast majority of the contest.
The tension was palpable as the clock ticked into injury time. Solihull Moors had enjoyed spells of possession and created their fair share of half-chances, but the crucial breakthrough eluded them. Rochdale, however, demonstrated their clinical edge when it mattered most.
In the 94th minute, the breakthrough finally arrived. Substitute Joe Pritchard, who had been introduced just seven minutes earlier, found himself in the right place at the right time to score the decisive goal. The goal, which came in the dying seconds of the match, proved to be the decisive moment, leaving the home supporters stunned and the Rochdale contingent in raptures.
The late goal was a bitter pill to swallow for Solihull Moors, who had battled gamely throughout the match. Their efforts were ultimately undone by a moment of quality from Pritchard, who proved to be the super-sub for Rochdale.
The victory sees Rochdale continue their impressive league campaign. Heading into this fixture, they occupied a lofty second position in the English National League standings, boasting an exceptional record of 18 wins, one draw, and only four losses from their previous 23 matches, accumulating 55 points. This win further solidifies their promotion credentials. Solihull Moors, meanwhile, found themselves in tenth place with 38 points from 28 games, a respectable position but one that highlights the gap between the top contenders and the chasing pack. This defeat marks a missed opportunity for Moors to climb the table and will be a difficult one to recover from mentally.
