Alex Ollier enjoyed a day to remember at Spotland on Saturday...
Alex Ollier, who was left gutted when the Dale game he travelled over 10,000 miles to watch was called off earlier this season, was offered another chance to see his team in action this weekend – thanks to Football League sponsor Sky Bet.
Alex, 21, from the Sunshine Coast, Australia, was flown back to the UK for Saturday's game against Blackpool, all paid for by Sky Bet.
Seeing Dale in action for only the second time in his life, he witnessed a memorable win as Keith Hill's side recorded a convincing 3-0 victory over the Seasiders.
Alex had a busy day on Saturday, as he was given the VIP treatment by the club. Being followed by a crew of media personnel, he was taken into the dressing room to meet the full first team squad before enjoying a delicious three course meal in the hospitality lounge. He was presented with a signed replica Dale shirt and a special canvas as a memento of his day at Spotland.
Alex said: “I was gutted to miss the game against Fleetwood, it would have been only my second Dale game ever – the first was nearly a decade ago!
“When Sky Bet got in touch to say that they’d pay for my flights back to the UK I was over the moon.
“I am so thankful for everything Sky Bet have done for me and it was fantastic to make my dream become a reality.”
Sky Bet Head of Sponsorship Edwin Martin said: “When we heard about Alex’s bad luck we knew something had to be done.
“It’s fantastic that the Sky Bet Football League attracts supporters from all around the globe and we’re glad we could help in making Alex’s dream of seeing his team a reality.
“We hope Alex had a fantastic day at Spotland and has a safe trip back to Oz!”