Rochdale Town out of Cup

Rochdale Town were knocked out of the Vodkat League Challenge Cup in the second round after they lost 2-0 at Premiership side Abbey Hey.

Town started the game brightly, pushing their higher league opponents back early on. Gary Nolan brought a fine save from Abbey Hey keeper Fielding in just the second minute and Carl Taylor's effort was turned round the post minutes later.

Fielding continued to shine to Sam Freakes, Taylor once more and James Greenhalgh and then, completely against the run of play, a defensive error gifted Abbey Hey the opener with 20 minutes played.

A back pass put Tonw keeper Mark Canning in trouble, his clearance was charged down and the ball fell for Cocks to finish.

Town could not replicate their flowing football in the second half and the game proved to be a scrappy affair with passes going astray from both sides.

The visitors pushed for the equaliser but as soon as they upped the tempo, Abbey Hey were gifted a match clinching second. Town failed to clear their lines and Lavendis was allowed time to mis-control the ball on the edge of the box and fire over Canning into the roof of the net.

Two defensive lapses cost Town as they more than held their own against their Premiership opponents. They return to league action this weekend with a home game against Wigan Robin Park, kick off 3pm.