The Warriors booked their place in the next round of the cup with a composed and professional victory over Rochdale, overcoming a spirited challenge to underline their ambitions of a deep run in the competition. In a tie that demanded patience as much as quality, the Warriors ultimately proved too strong, delivering key moments at both ends of the pitch to seal progression.

From the opening whistle, it was clear Rochdale were not going to make things easy. The hosts pressed aggressively in the early exchanges, looking to disrupt rhythm and force mistakes. For the first 15 minutes, the Warriors had to weather that intensity, showing discipline in defence and composure in possession. It was a mature response, especially in a knockout fixture where nerves can often take hold.

Gradually, the Warriors began to assert themselves. Their midfield trio started to dictate tempo, recycling possession quickly and stretching Rochdale’s shape. The breakthrough came midway through the first half after a sustained spell of pressure. A clever interchange down the right flank opened space, and a pinpoint cross into the box was met with a clinical finish, sending the travelling supporters into celebration.

Rochdale responded with determination. Rather than retreat, they pushed forward in search of an equaliser and enjoyed their best spell just before half-time. A couple of dangerous set-pieces tested the Warriors’ back line, but resolute defending and a confident claim from the goalkeeper preserved the advantage heading into the break.

The second half followed a similar pattern. Rochdale remained competitive, snapping into tackles and looking for quick transitions. However, the Warriors’ experience began to tell. Their movement off the ball improved, and gaps started to appear as the home side tired. The second goal arrived at a crucial moment, just after the hour mark. A quick counter-attack sliced through midfield, and a composed pass across goal allowed the striker to tap home from close range.

At 2-0, the Warriors had breathing space, yet they refused to become complacent. Instead, they controlled possession intelligently, forcing Rochdale to chase shadows for extended periods. Substitutions added fresh energy, with one substitute nearly making an instant impact, rattling the crossbar with a powerful effort from distance.

Credit must go to Rochdale, who continued to battle until the final whistle. They pulled one goal back late on with a well-taken strike, ensuring a nervy closing few minutes. But the Warriors managed the situation calmly, slowing the tempo and protecting the ball in advanced areas to see out the tie.

Beyond the result, this was a performance that highlighted the squad’s depth and resilience. Cup competitions often hinge on navigating tricky away fixtures, and this was precisely that. The Warriors demonstrated defensive solidity, midfield control, and attacking sharpness when it mattered most.

Progression in the cup keeps momentum building and belief growing within the squad. With confidence high and key players hitting form at the right time, the Warriors will now look ahead to the next round with optimism. If they can combine this level of discipline with a touch more ruthlessness in front of goal, they will be confident of extending their journey even further.