Alex Ollier: Aussie Rochdale fan returns to Spotland thanks to Sky Bet

Alex Ollier with the Rochdale AFC squad

Unlucky AFC Rochdale fan Alex Ollier, who was left gutted when the game he travelled over 10,000 miles to watch was called off, 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, flew over to the UK in January this year to watch his beloved Rochdale’s home game against Fleetwood Town.

However, when he arrived at Spotland, the game had been postponed due to a frozen pitch.

Now, thanks to online bookmaker Sky Bet, Alex saw Dale in action for only the second time in his life as they ran out 3-0 victors over Blackpool at Spotland on Saturday [April 16].

Alex was given the VIP treatment by the club, including a chance to meet the squad before the game and was presented with a replica Dale shirt donated by Sky Bet as a souvenir of the game.

He also received a £50 free bet and was given a hospitality package for the game.

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.”

Dale Chief Executive Colin Garlick, commented: “Rochdale Football Club were delighted to welcome Alex back to Spotland thanks to this wonderful gesture from Sky Bet.

“We know Alex was disappointed when the Fleetwood Town fixture was postponed, so it’s fantastic that he was still able to take in a game this season.

“We really hope that he enjoyed his VIP day out at Spotland.”

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.”