February proved to be a difficult month for Dale, with the side claiming three points from an available 15.
It did, however, produce Rochdale’s Goal of the Season winner, a win over Chesterfield and a fine display against League One Champions Bristol City.
The month started with two away games in the space of week, with trips to Walsall (3-2) and Peterborough United (2-1) – both of which ended in defeat.
Dale gave themselves a mountain to climb in the first half at London Road after Peterborough went 2-0 up inside seven minutes through a header from Harry Beautyman and Christian Burgess. Full-back Joe Rafferty halved the deficit with Rochdale’s Goal of the Season as he sent a bullet shot from outside of the area beyond 'keeper Ben Alnwick.
You can watch Joe’s goal HERE.
After two games on the road, Dale hosted Chesterfield secured all three points thanks to Ian Henderson’s after he got on the end of Michael Rose’s free-kick.
Watch the highlights on our YouTube channel by clicking HERE.
Days later and Sheffield United were the visitors to Spotland. A spirited late fight from Rochdale wasn't enough as the Blades secured all three points away with a 2-1 win. Marc McNulty opened the scoring for the Blades in the first half, before Josh Lillis misjudged a John Brayford long range drive. Jack O'Connell headed Dale back into the game with 15 minutes of the match remaining, but Sheffield United were able to hold on for the victory.
The month ended with a game against Bristol City at Ashton Gate and Dale undeservedly fell to a 1-0 defeat at the league leaders. Keith Hill's side had the better of the opportunities, the majority of the possession and played some excellent football against the Robins, but they were unable to find the goal they deserved to claim at least a point, as Aaron Wilbraham’s bullet header on 15 minutes proved to be the only goal of the game.