Late winner is history maker for Dale at Roots Hall
CALLUM Camps’ late header saw Rochdale secure their first win at Southend for 33 years.
The game seemed set to end in a draw when Shrimpers defender John White cancelled out Jordan Williams’ opener with an 81st-minute header.
But Camps’ effort, three minutes from time, saw Dale record their first victory at Roots Hall since 1985.
Dale boss Keith Hill said it was the ideal response to critics who had been quick to put the boot in following the home defeat by Plymouth seven days earlier.
“It would be nice if some of the critical supporters could be reminded of the fact we’d gone 33 years without winning here because they too easily criticise and it’s a shame because we are an honest football club and I thought personally there was far too much criticism for losing last week’s game and it hurt me and it hurt the players.
“But we responded well and perhaps sometimes you need that kick up the backside. But 33 years not to win here, it tells its own story about the history of the football club and that’s why we shouldn’t be complacent with League One and enjoy every moment of it.”
With 23 minutes on the clock, the visitors broke the deadlock as Williams outmuscled Elvis Bwomono on Dale’s left flank before sprinting into the box and sent a low, left-footed shot past Shrimpers goalkeeper Nathan Bishop.
Southend equalised when Sam Mantom’s left-wing corner was flicked on at the near post to allow White to head home from close range.
However, Dale hit back six minutes later with Camps headed home Ian Henderson’s left wing cross to secure all three points for Hill’s side.