On Saturday, in a top of the table showdown at the New Lawn Stadium. Leaders Forest Green Rovers take on second placed Rochdale. Even this early in the season, it is genuine 6-pointer. Win and Rovers go 5 points clear of the Dale; lose and they are top, 1 point ahead of us (with 2 games in hand).

 

Last season, Rochdale finished in 4th place only to be beaten (in extra time) by Southend in the play-offs; just like Rovers. 2 of our summer signings, and now regular starters, played for Rochdale last season. Luke McNicholas made 9 appearances (all starts) and kept 6 clean sheets, including against us in the game at Spotland. Kairo Mitchell made 47 appearances (36 starts) and scored 16 goals. He played the full 90 minutes in both games against us, but failed to score.

 

Rochdale are top of the National League form table. They have played 2 less games than most other leading sides. They lost on Wednesday night at home to Halifax Town, only their 2nd defeat. They have won every other game!

 

This will be another tough one for Rovers. After drawing our last 2 games at home, against Scunthorpe and York City, as well as at Boston on Wednesday, we can ill afford to drop more points, if our ambition is to maintain top position throughout the season. It will only encourage those chasing us, especially those with games in hand.