Big crowd set for ‘War of the Roses’

Following back to back victories Rochdale take on Bradford City tomorrow afternoon in a clash that has been billed the ‘War of the Roses’. Spotland is set for its highest attendance of the season with the ex-Premiership side expected to bring over 2000 fans and Rochdale Chairman Chris Dunphy having issued a rallying cry to home supporters.

Rochdale are hoping for a crowd of more than 5000 given the size of the opposition and the club’s recent form, which has lifted them to the verge of the play-offs.

Chairman Chris Dunphy told the club’s official website: “This is without doubt the best side that I have seen in my time as a supporter at the club and they are giving us some exciting games. We need the support of the town if we are to reach our goal of promotion and it would be great if we could really swell the home support on Saturday.

Lancastrians and Yorkshire-men alike are being urged to get down to Spotland to cheer on their respective counties. John Kettley, Landlord at the Cemetery Inn on Bury Road is expecting a busy afternoon. “It’s a proper Roses match and I want Rochdale to win it for the Lancastrians. We’re expecting lots of fans to have a drink before and after the game and I’m sure our Red Rose pasty, the Lancashire Foot, will go down well!”

The club is urging supporters to get to the ground in plenty of time in order to avoid congestion at the turnstiles.

The match kicks-off at 3pm and those that want to be there for ‘The War of the Roses’ can pay on the gate. The Sandy Lane is cheapest at £12 (£8 conc.) while the cheapest seats are at the opposite end, The WMG Stand priced £15 (£8 conc.)

The club hope that the game will go ahead despite the awful weather of the past week. Rochdale Online will keep you fully up to date with news of any pitch inspections.