Rochdale AFC face a tough test away to Colchester United this Saturday in Sky Bet League Two. The match at the JobServe Community Stadium pits a Dale side still seeking its first points against a U's team aiming for consecutive home victories.
Colchester United, currently fifth in the table, come into the game on a high after a dramatic 2-1 win over Oldham Athletic. Harry Anderson scored a second-half equaliser before a stoppage-time own goal from Lewis Temple secured the three points. That result, reported by www.cu-fc.com, gives the Essex side momentum. Academy striker Kien Connolly made his senior debut in that match and is expected to be in the squad again for the visit of Rochdale.
How has Rochdale started the season?
Rochdale's return to the Football League has begun with difficulty. They sit 23rd in League Two with zero points from their opening two games, having suffered defeats to Newport County and Crawley Town. Their goal difference stands at minus four, with just one goal scored and five conceded. This leaves them six points behind early leaders Barnet. Their Carabao Cup campaign also ended early with a 2-0 loss at Bradford City in the first round, following a penalty shoot-out win over Tranmere Rovers.
Who is leading Rochdale's rebuild?
Head coach Ian Watson is the man tasked with turning things around. He took charge in June after Jimmy McNulty's departure for Stockport County. Watson joined from National League North side South Shields, where he led the club to a second-place finish and a promotion final in his first full season. He has overseen a significant squad overhaul this summer. New arrivals include goalkeeper Nils Ramming, centre-back Laurence Maguire, Chelsea loanee Kaiden Wilson, and forwards Cian Hayes and Zain Silcott-Duberry. Fans can track the progress of the new-look squad on our squad page.
What is the recent history between these teams?
The last meetings between these sides came in the 2022/23 season, Rochdale's relegation campaign. The Dale won 1-0 at Colchester in September 2022 thanks to a Devante Rodney penalty. Colchester gained revenge with a win in Greater Manchester the following January. A familiar face could return to Essex, as veteran striker Ian Henderson may feature for Rochdale. Henderson spent three years with Colchester in the early 2010s, scoring 26 goals in 129 appearances.
What comes next for both clubs?
For Rochdale, the immediate focus is on halting their losing run and climbing from the foot of the standings. After Saturday, Colchester face a busy week with trips to Bristol Rovers and Swindon Town. Rochdale will hope their summer rebuild starts to yield results, beginning with a positive performance against a confident opponent. The Club Shop and Fanzone at the JobServe Community Stadium will be open from around midday on matchday for the 29th August fixture.
