Macclesfield Town 0 - 3 Rochdale

George Donnelly

Rochdale ran out comprehensive winners against Conference side Macclesfield Town at The Moss Rose. A George Donnelly brace and an own goal sealed victory for Keith Hill’s side; with the Dale gaffer experimenting on a new formation throughout the game.

Josh Lillis made his first pre-season appearance between the sticks after injury curtailed his involvement so far. New signing from Blackburn Jack O’Connell was given the nod on the left hand side of a back three which also included Ashley Eastham and Olly Lancashire. Full backs Joe Rafferty and Michael Rose were utilised in a more advanced role in midfield with Andrew Tutte and Jamie Allen marshalling the centre. Matty Done was played in a more advanced midfield role with Donnelly and Joe Bunney making up the 3-5-2 formation.

A Michael Rose free-kick went agonisingly wide on 10 minutes but Hills side took the lead 15 minutes later. A tempting left wing cross from Done was met by Bunney with his headed crashing back off the bar to Donnelly who hooked the ball into the net from 12 yards.

Macclesfield forced a good save from Lillis when former Chesterfield man Scott Boden headed at goal.

After the break, Tutte saw a powerful drive tipped over after great passing in the build up.

Dale doubled their lead just after the hour mark via an own goal. Allen’s back post corner was headed across the face of goal by O’Connell with the unfortunate Thomas turning the ball home.

Hill made numerous changes to his side throughout the second half and Jav Vidal (trialist) tested home keeper Rhys Taylor.

The scoring was wrapped up by Donnelly with 15 minutes remaining with a wonderful strike. With his back to goal, the former Macclesfield man turned and hit a stunning shot into the top corner giving Taylor no chance.

It was another good workout for Keith Hill's side gives him and a lot to ponder with the season just over a week away.

Next opponents: Preston North End, Saturday 27 July, Spotland Stadium, 3pm kick off.