Tempers flared after the final whistle in the National League clash between Rochdale and Sutton United after the away side battled back to claim a vital victory in the title race. Just three points now separate league leaders Dale from second-placed York City, who overcame Woking on Saturday afternoon. Rochdale were required to come from behind to ensure the gap to their title challengers remained intact.
Sutton had taken the lead through Charlie Bell in the 78th minute, but league leaders Rochdale drew level in the 89th minute through Devante Rodney, before Ian Henderson struck in the 97th minute to maintain their stranglehold on top spot. With only one automatic promotion spot available in the National League, every single point carries immense significance for both Rochdale and York at this pivotal stage of the season.
Both sides are set to meet on the final day of the campaign, with the winner likely to be crowned champions. Passions boiled over after the final whistle following Dale’s dramatic late victory.
In footage shared across social media, players from both teams grappled in the centre of the pitch before staff from both clubs became embroiled in the confrontation.
Security staff also took to the field in a bid to diffuse the disorder, while Sutton’s Hayden Muller was shown a second yellow card for his involvement in the incident.
The 24-year-old could also be subject to further disciplinary action if deemed guilty of any misconduct in the referee’s match report.
Speaking to talkSPORT following the fixture, Rochdale manager Jim McNulty reflected: « Just an absolute tear-up, I think. It reminded me of 3am city centre kind of stuff that you don’t really know how it started.
« And then you’re finding it difficult to stop because everyone’s got hold of each other, and there’s bodies rolling around on the floor underneath the swell of individuals that all want to suddenly kill each other.
« There’s a few scratches and scars. Well, not scars, but there’s a few scratches and bruises in there from people being gripped around the necks and whatnot. I don’t really know in this moment, but everyone seems all right. »
Rochdale resume their campaign on Good Friday when they host Morecambe, who are hovering perilously close to a third relegation in four years and remain eight points adrift of safety.
McNulty’s side then meet Hartlepool United on Easter Monday, while title challengers York City travel to Boston United before hosting Altrincham.
It’s a remarkable contest for promotion back to League Two, with Rochdale on 98 points after their triumph over Sutton, while the Minstermen stand at 95 points.
Both clubs could realistically finish with in excess of 100 points, with one potentially falling short of promotion through the National League play-offs. With five fixtures still to play, it looks destined to be a nail-biting finish.
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