Debutant Holly Davenport got the first goal of the season, with a Katie King brace and strikes from Alicia Barnett and Daisy Mason completing a fine afternoon at home.
Atherton, who pipped Dale to fourth spot in the division last term, arrived knowing they would need to write the wrongs of two Dale wins last season.
Rovers created the first real opening of the game as former Dale forward Shannon Gill tried her luck but Leah Jackson was equal to it.
Dale responded with chances of their own but had to remain patient for the opener which came on the half-hour mark. Our newest signing Davenport, who arrived on Friday, was played in by Barnett and fired home effortlessly.
The game had an even balance to it heading into the second period but Dale made the most of their opportunities within ten minutes of the second-half. Barnett created some space for herself with her effort deflecting off an Atherton defender and into the corner.
The visitors still remained a threat with the Dale clean sheet being tested on occasions in the second-half.
Dale earned breathing space in the encounter, King on the scoresheet this time as she brought the ball down and sent a beauty into the top corner to open her account for the season.
Hanna Chlodek, who ended last season in fine scoring form, was eager to convert. Her curling attempt rebuffed by the Rovers’ goalkeeper.
It would soon be four and time for Mason to break her duck with an impressive first touch and finish for another great Dale goal.
Atherton almost got one back, firing narrowly wide after some offside claims from the Dale backline.
Four became five before the end, with substitute Egbon laying the ball off nicely to King who smashed home another fabulous strike for her brace.
Gaffer Lee Atkinson was pleased with the application shown on matchday one.
“I’m very proud of the team,” he commented.
“We knew the game would be difficult but the girls were outstanding. Every player played a huge role in what is a great result in a tough league.
“It’s a quick turnaround now where we head to Bury on Wednesday night. We know our levels will have to remain high but we want to give the best version of ourselves in each game.”
Dale XI | Jackson, Duckworth, Malpus, Jones, Mackie, Whyte, Moran, King, Davenport, Barnett, Chlodek.
Subs | Mason, McNeil, Egbon, Strudwick, Singleton.
