With Rochdale AFC not playing today, we take a look at last weekend’s clash which had a surprising result, writes Muhammad Saad Ismail.
The Dale went goalless against Woking FC as Neal Ardley’s side showcased brilliant resistance against the league leaders to keep the game 0-0. League leaders Rochdale AFC were subsquently unable to walk away with the three points from the clash.
The match took place last Saturday, October 25, 2025, in the Crown Oil Arena, Rochdale. Woking FC were up against the home side and many thought the mid-table dwellers were in for a certain defeat.
In the first half, both sides clashed for the crucial three points, where James McNulty’s side was in attacking mode. Emmanuel Diseruwer once again led the attack. For most football pundits, it was just going to be a three-point grab for Rochdale AFC.
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But no one saw it coming. Woking FC did not let the Dale have any chance to score. James McNulty’s side tried their best to score in the first 45 minutes but failed. The cardinals were controlling the flow of the game as the first half ended all square with no goals on the board.
The second-half was expected to be a comeback for the Dale. The frustration built in the first half was expected to be released. Back-to-back attacks on the goalpost resulted in nothing except disappointment. The Cardinals’ defensive line was firm like a metal wall.
It was clear that Rochdale AFC was disappointed when James McNulty was substituted after the 71st minute. Tarryn Allarakhia got the chance to step up when it was needed the most. They brought three strikers as subs; it was crystal clear they were under pressure.
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But this time, nothing worked for Rochdale AFC, as Connor McBride, Levi Amantchi, and Tyler Smith failed to manage a single goal for them. The final whistle brought point sharing for the table topper and the bottom-line team.
Rochdale AFC lost two crucial points, but there is no one else at the moment to claim the league throne and the club still sit in first place on the table. McNulty’s side is still on top, having two matches in hand. On the other side, a well-crafted play proved to be a masterclass for the visitors. A draw with one of the best teams in the league was not a bad day out for the Cardinals. The Dale are back in action Tuesday night with a fixture against Scunthorpe at home.
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