The FA Trophy run will continue for a Greater Manchester side as Rochdale AFC grabbed a narrow win. Their opponents, Leamington fought decently but fell short of qualifying for the next round.
The game was scheduled for December 13, 2025, between Rochdale AFC and Leamington. Both sides were up for the fourth round.
The first half was goalless, with The Dale making the first attempt. Conner McBride and Taryn Allarkaria made a decent move but were saved by Eddie Brearey. Ryan Galvin burst forward, but once again the Brakes stopped the venture.
On the other side of the coin, Leamington failed to make any notable attempt. The scorecard was still not opened as both sides went goalless in the first 45 minutes.
The second half started as a crucial, match-deciding half. McNutty’s side went to press the opposition as they were eager to strike first. Dale brought on a substitute, Levi Amantachi. This move proved to be a game-changing decision for McNutty, as Levi scored a goal in just the sixth minute after coming on, making it 1–0.
Dale got the lead, but the attacking football continued. The opposition went for an equaliser, while the Dale goalstopper went solid and did not give any chance to the Brakes. A few good moves were made by McNutty’s side, but they also failed to extend their lead.
With the final whistle, Rochdale AFC won the game and reached the next round of the FA Trophy. They will face Tamworth on January 10, 2025.
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