The Youth Team were beaten 3-2 at top of the table Preston North End on Saturday.
Dale took the lead after 13 minutes through Oscar Kelly, but were pegged back ten minutes later, as the game entered the interval level.
However, two second-half goals from PNE saw them take all three points and cement their position at the top of the table. Dale grabbed a late consolation through Darren Ehimamiegho but it wasn't enough to take something from thew game.
Dale are next in action on Saturday, at home to Stockport County.