Report | Rochdale Hornets 10 Dons 20

The Dons made it two wins from two in Betfred League One with a 20-10 victory over Rochdale Hornets at the Crown Oil Arena.

Tries from Connor Robinson, Elliot Hall, Greg Burns and Jack Sanderson secured the two points for Richard Horne’s side.

In a battle between two teams who made the play-offs last season, it was the Dons who struck first through a fine individual effort from Robinson. The Dons No.7 collected a well-timed pass from Brett Ferres and raced 70 metres downfield, before throwing a dummy to cruise over the try-line.

Rochdale responded well though and Ben O’Keefe, who scored twice against the Dons last season, was the man to score their first try as he and his team took advantage of a repeat set to go over in the corner.

In a tight opening period of the game, the Dons went in front once again five minutes after being pegged back. A smart move saw Ben Johnston find skipper Sam Smeaton who broke through the defensive line, before using the supporting Hall who had the time to score his second try of the league campaign so far.

The Dons went in at the break four points ahead and three minutes after the interval extended their lead. Smeaton again played a key role in getting his side into a good position, before Loui McConnell brought hooker Burns into play and the former Sheffield man managed to ground the ball under the posts.

Horne’s side continued to attack the Rochdale line but were caught out when Hall’s attempted pass wide was intercepted by Cian Tyrer, who sprinted away and reduced the deficit for the Hornets. Dave Hewitt converted to leave the gap at four points with more than a quarter of the game remaining.

The visitors had to remain strong and had an answer for every question Rochdale asked, before they sealed the game heading into the final 10 minutes.

Sanderson, fresh from his four tries in the Challenge Cup against Oldham last time out, got on the end of a smart grubber kick through from Robinson to score and continue his fine run of form and send the Dons back across the Pennines with maximum points.

The Dons return to the Eco-Power Stadium to take on Workington Town in the Betfred Challenge Cup third round this weekend, and you can secure your seat now by CLICKING HERE.