Hereford vs Rochdale
FA Cup
4th Round Qualifying
Saturday
14th October 2023
Edgar Street Athletic Ground
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the FA Cup 4th Round Qualifying fixture between Hereford and Rochdale.
Hereford vs Rochdale: Preview
Hereford form analysis
The Bulls began September with a disappointing 0-1 home loss to Southport, failing to create much. However, they did respond by coming from behind late to beat Chester 2-1 away thanks to goals from substitutes Mendes and Teixeira. Hereford’s issues resurfaced though in a 0-2 defeat away at Spennymoor, caught out twice in a below par display. They did bounce back by beating Bishop’s Stortford 1-0 at home last time out courtesy of Ceesay’s early goal, a welcome three points. Most recently though, Hereford were held to a goalless away draw by South Shields.
Overall, it’s been an inconsistent start to the season for Hereford as they try to sustain a promotion push after narrowly missing out via the playoffs last term. They’ve struggled to build momentum, following up good wins with disappointing defeats. Improving their levels week to week rather than game to game is clearly key after this erratic opening month.
Rochdale form analysis
Rochdale began with a dramatic 2-1 away win at Dorking, scoring twice in injury time through Ebanks-Landell and Henderson to overturn Blair’s opener. However, defensive issues surfaced in a 1-2 home loss to Chesterfield as Mitchell’s leveller proved a consolation. Dale stopped the rot with a 2-2 home draw against Southend, with Mitchell again netting before conceding twice to Cardwell. But their problems at the back continued in a 0-2 defeat away at Solihull. Last time out though, Rochdale fought back to draw 2-2 away at Maidenhead, with Mitchell and Sinclair on target in a gutsy display.
Overall, it’s been an inconsistent month for Rochdale as they adapt to life back in non-league. They’ve showcased fighting spirit at times, but been too open defensively on several occasions. Striker Mitchell has impressed with 4 goals already. They have enough attacking threat to push for an immediate EFL return.
