Rochdale produced a dramatic late fightback from 2-0 down to clinch promotion back to the English Football League with a penalty shootout victory over Boreham Wood in the Enterprise National League play-off final at Wembley Stadium.
Match Overview
The Wood looked set for glory after striking in each half through Matt Rush and the lively Abdul Abdulmalik. However, Dale, who were denied automatic promotion in heartbreaking fashion on the final day of the regular season, pulled one back in the 78th minute through Tyler Smith. Mani Dieseruvwe made it 2-2 in stoppage time, forcing extra time.
Neither side could find a winner in extra time, but Rochdale prevailed 3-1 on penalties. Oliver Whatmuff, on loan from Manchester City, saved from Callum Reynolds and Rush before Cameron Coxe hit the crossbar.
Emotional Return
Rochdale’s success secures a return to the EFL after a three-year absence and banishes the pain of their last-day disappointment when they conceded a stoppage-time equaliser to promotion rivals York.
The victory sparked wild celebrations among players and fans, marking a remarkable turnaround for a club that had suffered near-misses in recent seasons.
