Rochdale Town vs 1874 Northwich

Recap

From an 1874 Northwich perspective this was certainly not a seven goal thriller. The strong band of supporters travelled to support their team and fully expected to make the journey home celebrating a return to the top of the league table but alas it was not to be.

However, after just 2 minutes of the game all seemed to be going well after Stuart Wellstead opened the scoring following up a saved shot from Brandon but after that 1874’s efforts to secure their much-needed two goal lead failed as the home keeper was in inspired from saving from Brandon, Jones and Ward before the home side equalized in the 8th minute courtesy of an own goal from Michael Brandan whose attempt to clear a corner resulted in his unstoppable volley sailing past Conkie into the net.

Whilst 1874 continued to try and play football in the difficult and heavy conditions the home side had quickly reverted to long ball tactics which were very much suited to the order of the day and after 37 minutes Rochdale took the lead after 1874 were caught out by a quick switch from defence to attack followed by some hesitant defending left Evans with a simple task of scoring

However the sides went in level at half time when Matty Ward scored from close range after 44 minutes

After the interval both sides quickly created chances and in the 48th minute 1874 regained the lead when leading scorer Brandon netted at the right end. Both keepers were kept reasonably busy after this and whilst 1874 assumed a certain amount of control they continued to try and play football, even out of defence, and in the end this was to prove their downfall as Callum Smith netted twice for Rochdale in the 65th and 81st minutes to secure victory for his side.

This was a “bad day at the office” for 1874 and it is to be hoped that all of the bad aspects of their performance can be quickly put behind them as they are in midweek action at Northwich Flixton Villa on Wednesday in the Cheshire Senior Club before travelling to Holker Old Boys on Saturday.

Team: . Matt Conkie; Ryan Mitchell; Ryan Stewart; Danny Thomas; Lee Duckworth; Adam Foy (Capt); Stuart Wellstead; Lee Jones;Mike Brandon; Rick Bailey &. Matty Ward

Subs. Jack McKay (replaced Wellstead 87 mins) Liam Newman (replaced Bailey 76 mins)
Steve Crane & Paul Bowyer (unused)
Attendance 140