Dale’s Ladies’ team ran out 3-0 winners over Bolton Wanderers on Saturday, extending their consecutive winning streak to six games against their local rivals.
Wanderers had previously scored 12 goals in their previous two games, making Dale’s feat in securing a clean sheet on the road even more impressive.
Dale struggled to take control in the opening stages of the game, battling the elements of the wind and rain
Little chances for either side meant the scores remained level at the half-time break.
Ellie Dogget opened the scoring for Dale soon after the break. A quick passing move through the Trotter’s backline set the attacker up to settle the nerves.
It was Brooke Strudwick who grabbed the second to double Dale’s lead. An excellent period of link-up play splitting the defensive line allowed Strudwick to burst through and slam the second home.
Bolton had a few chances late into the second half but a well-disciplined Dale defence – couple with some outstanding goalkeeping - made sure they kept another clean sheet.
Strudwick sealed a man-of-the-match performance with her second of the game, sealing three points for the visitors. The first shot was saved by the Wanderers stopper, but Strudwick was able to strike the ball past the helpless ‘keeper for the third just before the final whistle.