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Rochdale AFC promotion heroes welcomed home after Wembley triumph

Tuesday, 12 May 2026 21:00

By David Murphy

Credit: David Murphy / Roch Valley Radio

Hundreds of Rochdale AFC fans gathered at Rochdale Town Hall to celebrate the club’s return to the Football League.

Players and coaching staff were welcomed at a civic reception hosted by Mayor of Rochdale Janet Emsley after Dale’s National League play off final win over Boreham Wood at Wembley.

Rochdale came from 2 0 down on Sunday before winning 3 1 on penalties, with goalkeeper Oliver Whatmuff saving two spot kicks.

Supporters filled the town hall square as the squad displayed their medals and the National League Promotion Final trophy.

Co chairman Cameron Ogden said “The one word that keeps being repeated about Rochdale is resilience.”

He added “The message from our family is we love this town, we love the people and we love this football club.”

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Rochdale AFC Promotion Party - Tuesday 12 May 2026
Credit: David Murphy

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Club captain Ethan Ebanks Landell and record goal scorer Ian Henderson lifted the trophy on stage as fans chanted for Dale.

Whatmuff said “I don’t think it has sunk in properly yet. It’s still surreal.

“I didn’t realise how much this means to everyone. It was tough missing out against York but the gaffer kept us going and this team is something special. We never give up.”

Mayor Janet Emsley said “I have supported Rochdale since 1968 and have followed them through the ups and down.

“People have been down on them but they never give up and as Cameron said, they are resilient. I was on the edge of my seat at Wembley but you knew they wouldn’t give up.

“This is good for the club and it’s good for the town and it really should be celebrated.”

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