Dale’s third league victory came around courtesy of a Sophie Coates brace, completing the turnaround after the visitors took an early advantage.
Five minutes in, Stockport took the lead. A corner caused problems for Dale, bobbling around before it was turned home from close range.
Lee Atkinson’s side reacted well to the rare setback, pinning County back and creating some decent opportunities.
A free-scoring Dale in recent weeks had to remain patient but the leveller did come on the stroke of half-time, Coates adding to Sunday’s winner by taking a touch and firing a low effort home.
Following the break in an even contest, the girls switched things around to try and work through a stubborn Stockport defence.
On the hour mark, this paid dividends when Gracie Smith skipped past two and was taken out from behind to earn Dale a spot-kick. Coates stepped up and placed it into the bottom corner for her and Dale’s second.
Dale were denied by the woodwork late on as they tried to put the game out of sight. Despite numerous chances, Dale settled for just the two, to add to an impressive points haul so far.
Gaffer Lee Atkinson
“We’re happy again with the three points.
“Stockport are a good side and they made us work hard for it.
“We’re pleased with the team’s effort.
“We now look forward to Wigan at home, who also had an impressive victory.
“We have to raise our levels.”
Dale XI | Jackson, Priestley, Malpus (c), Jones, Smith, Barnett, Whyte, Moran, Seals, Davenport, Coates.
Subs | Egbon, Strudwick, Taylor, Keating.
