Sophie Coates had drawn Dale level shortly after the break but two further second-half strikes made it back-to-back defeats.
Sunday’s hosts came into the game following an improvement in form and had the early momentum as former Dale forward Hanna Chlodek struck onto the roof of the net.
Within five minutes, Atherton were awarded a penalty. Tailor Toner was adjudged to have been brought down in the area and the striker stepped up to convert.
Dale had a penalty shout of their own within the opening period as Alicia Barnett went down under a challenge but nothing was given.
Captain Nicole Malpus, who also had a claim for a decision, was forced off with an elbow injury, with Dale having to adjust before the interval.
Angela Egbon was introduced and quickly made an impact as she got in behind and drew a foul from the Rovers defender, spot-kick given. Coates made no mistake in burying her penalty for nine goals in all competitions.
Just as Lee Atkinson’s side were building to complete the turnaround but a ball in from the side in yellow hit a Dale hand and Atherton had the third penalty of the encounter, which Shannon Gill slotted in.
The game began to etch away as Atherton made it three late on as Chlodek hit a wonderful effort over the top of Hattie Simpson for 3-1.
Lee Atkinson says he knows what needs to improve but is positive the side can return to their early season form.
“A difficult day for us after last week’s defeat.
“We needed to get the points but we didn’t get going.
“We’re hoping our skipper (Nicole Malpus) won’t be out for long and we can welcome a few more injured players back.
“The last two results hurt but we will come back stronger and will be looking to respond next weekend.”
Dale XI | Simpson, Duckworth, Malpus (c), Makin, King, Whyte, Smith, Barnett, Fergus, Coates.
Subs | Egbon, Taylor, Mason, Jones, Mackie,
