SkyBet League Two: Rochdale v Hartlepool United
August, 3pm kick-offrdSpotland Stadium, Saturday 3
Rochdale begin their campaign at home to Hartlepool United this Saturday as they kick off the new Sky Bet League Two season.
anniversary celebrations – the two teams have met more than any other.thThe match is one of six special fixtures to be chosen as part of the Football League’s 125
Rochdale head into the new campaign on the back of a positive pre-season which saw Keith Hill’s new look squad go unbeaten over seven friendly matches, with Dale recording five wins and two draws.
The match marks Colin Cooper’s first competitive match in charge of Pools. He took over the Managerial reigns at Victoria Park after his predecessor, John Hughes, left the club in May following the side's relegation into League Two.
Steve Howard is the only injury doubt for Hartlepool, while Hill has a fully fit Rochdale squad to chose from.
MATCH OFFICIALS
Fourth official: Nicholas Gibbon
Assistant referees: Guy Stretton and Ricky Wooton
Referee: Michael Bull
2011: Rochdale 1-3 Hartlepoolth
August 27
LAST MEETING AT SPOTLAND
Adam Boyd opened the scoring on seven minutes for the visitors, but his early goal was cancelled out nine minutes later by Jean-Louis Akpa Akpro. Two second half goals from James Poole nensured victory for Hartlepool.
Hartlepool were last at Spotland during the 2011/12 season and Dale suffered a 3-1 defeat on the day.
HEREAdmission prices for Saturday’s match can be found .
DALE PLAYERPre-match interviews Manager Keith Hill and Captain Peter Cavanagh are available to listen to on .