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Rochdale AFC Women continued their excellent start to the season by beating Stockport County 2-1 on Wednesday evening.
Dale’s third league victory came courtesy of two Sophie Coates goals, completing a turnaround after Stockport took an early lead.
Five minutes in Stockport scored, a corner caused problems for Dale, the ball bobbling around before it was turned in from close range.
Dale reacted well to the setback, pinning Stockport back and creating some decent opportunities.
Dale had to remain patient but the equaliser came on the stroke of half-time, Coates taking a touch and hitting a low shot in.
Following the break, Dale switched things around to try and work through a stubborn Stockport defence.
On the hour mark, this paid dividends when Gracie Smith skipped past two Stockport players and was taken out from behind to earn Dale a penalty. Coates stepped up and placed it into the bottom corner for her and Dale’s second.
Dale hit the woodwork late on as they tried to put the game out of sight, but despite numerous chances settled for just the two goals.
Dale manager Lee Atkinson said: “We’re happy again with the three points.
“Stockport are a good side and they made us work hard for it.
“We’re pleased with the team’s effort.
“We now look forward to Wigan at home, who also had an impressive victory.
“We have to raise our levels.”
Dale XI | Jackson, Priestley, Malpus (c), Jones, Smith, Barnett, Whyte, Moran, Seals, Davenport, Coates.
Subs | Egbon, Strudwick, Taylor, Keating.
