Fabian Nowacki’s first-half goal had the scores level heading into added time before 15-year-old Ronnie Brown’s dramatic winner.
Walsall to their credit came out the blocks flying and opened the scoring early after a positive move down the wing, catching Dale’s backline out.
After a sustained period of pressure, Dale began to assert themselves on the ball and forced the Saddlers into defensive errors. This was exactly how the lads drew level as Nowacki nipped in to notch his first goal in the blue and white before the interval.
Goalkeeper Mackai Gee was called into action upon resumption, making two fine stops against a dangerous away team.
In an open second-half, Dale had chances of their own on the counter but that crucial final ball was lacking.
14-year-old George Barnes was introduced and decided to try his luck from range as the clock ticked over 90. The power saw the Walsall ‘keeper spill straight into the path of Brown who netted to ensure a spirited comeback victory.
Lead PDP coach Mike Sheron was relieved to see the three points come home, after a tough few weeks.
“We’re delighted to record our first win of the season and we’re proud of the lads.
“They showed a great deal of determination and tenacity to come from behind and score the winning goal in the last minute.”
Dale XI | Gee, Horrocks, Bradley, Brown, Platt, Pither, Cunliffe, Nowacki, Hardwidge, Leonard, F.Connolly.
Substitutes | Taylor, Potter, Fanning, Barnes, H.Connolly.
