In the penultimate game of the season, Adam Rundle’s second half equalising goal against already-relegated Luton Town clinched Dale’s play-off spot for the second year running. I can’t wait! Quick to react to a rebound, the left winger slammed a right-footed volley beyond the keeper from point-blank range and it was all but confirmed that Dale’s season would go beyond next weekend. It seems like a tie against Gillingham awaits after the final game of the season against the same opposition. Three games on the trot against the Gills will be very strange indeed. The games should also pose an interesting problem when it comes to the away leg. The Dale fans will either be travelling down for a 7.45 KO on a Thursday night or an 11.30 KO on a Sunday morning (apparently). With the mammoth trip down south, both will be difficult to get to, especially as the 11.30 KO may see the need to depart at around 5/6 o’clock in the morning. Now there’s dedication! All this, of course, depends on the final result of the season.
When Tom Craddock converted from the spot in the first half, it looked as if Dale were going to continue to limp over the line. With only one point required, Dale had struggled in recent times. As a result, Rundle’s second half goal caused Dale fans to let out a huge sigh of relief. With Rochdale safely in the play-offs, I can only hope that Exeter and Wycombe win on the last day of the season to deny Bury promotion. I really cannot believe Bury have Accrington as their final game (there were allegations of match-fixing when the two sides met on the final weekend last year) and Exeter face Rotherham away; a very tough match. I hope they only manage a play-off place or I will never live it down. A clash at Wembley between Dale and Bury may not be desirable as Bury have consistently got the best of recent encounters, but, at least, their promotion would be in Dale’s hands.
Congratulations to Tom Kennedy, who has made the League Two team of the season. He has been exceptional (yet again) this season and has been an example to others with his consistency and professionalism, making the starting line-up on almost every occasion. It is richly deserved.
Update: The Football League have delayed the kick-off of the play-off semi-final 2nd leg. In their infinite wisdom, the authorities have delayed KO from 11.30 to 12. How helpful. They are so considerate of football fans! Oh… and Sky.
Tags: League 2, League Two, Rochdale, Rochdale AFC
