A Hanna Chlodek hat-trick was enough to see Lee Atkinson’s side end the league season in fifth position, in their first season in the sixth tier of women’s football.
Dale came into the game after confirmation of our non-replayed Ashton Town fixture, ending in a 2-1 defeat back in March. That was the last time they were in competitive action, over a month ago in the abandoned game.
Atherton got the ball moving in the first-half and were looking to get their first win over Dale this season at the third attempt.
However, the quicker start was made by Dale, going one up inside the first five minutes of the game as Chlodek was played through by Daisy Mason and she placed her strike into the bottom right corner for an early lead.
Dale kept the pressure on the Atherton goal and through Hanna Chlodek again, Dale extended the advantage. After winning a dangerous free-kick, she slotted the ball effortlessly into the back of the net.
The attacking intent for Dale slowed as Atherton made a tactical change and started to create chances of their own through top goal-getter Shannon Gill.
The winger had a couple of opportunities to shoot on goal but excellent defending from all of Ellie Jones, Darcy Moran and Gracie Smith prevented the former Dale player.
In the 41st minute, Atherton pulled one goal back following a cross from Gill to find Tailor Toner, who headed past Leah Jackson.
At half-time Dale held a 2-1 lead, which was well deserved.
Just after the hour mark, the ball feel to Smith outside the area, who unleashed a well struck volley but, it went narrowly over the bar.
Dale ventured forward in hosts’ half and Sophie Coates had the ball at her feet but, her shot was dragged wide of the post.
Dale’s attackers were working well together and pushing for a third goal but just lacking that cutting edge to take the game away from Rovers.
The pressing and probing proved dividends as Dale got the third. A brilliant showpiece of quality from Chlodek to grab her hat trick, as well as the third goal to secure the double in the league over Atherton.
The strike from long-range flew into the top left corner, for our number 18’s ninth goal since arriving in December. The full-time whistle blew on the game and Dale’s season, finishing just three points behind Atherton in the standings.
Our match winning hero spoke after the game on getting her second hat-trick in Dale colours.
“We played really well and played the football we wanted, so we were rewarded for our efforts today with a dominant victory.
“It’s been a good first season here and I think the girls have all clicked together.
“I can’t wait for next season.”
Dale XI | Jackson, Jones, Malpus (c), Whyte, Smith, Moran, Coates, Barnett, Chlodek, Mason, Singleton.
Subs | Nolan, Strudwick, McNeil, Cocking, Southworth.
Scorers | 5′ 12′ 90+4′ Chlodek.
