Pools came within a few seconds of securing a perfect Easter weekend but were denied back-to-back wins after Rodney, who scored four goals in 45 appearances in the North East, stole in to bag a last gasp leveller in the fifth and final minute of added time.
Pools led after Joe Grey’s acrobatic 65th minute opener but Rochdale, who had Grenadian striker Kairo Mitchell sent off following a strong challenge on Tom Parkes in the first half, snatched a point at the death after the visitors failed to make the most of a number of presentable opportunities to put the game to bed.
Boss Kevin Phillips was left seething after a succession of mistakes cost his side in the build-up to Dale’s equaliser, with Pools unnecessarily giving up possession down by the corner flag before failing to deal with a bouncing ball that allowed Rodney in on goal.
So, here’s a look at how the Pools players rated from a mixed Easter Monday afternoon in Greater Manchester.
5. Louis Stephenson: 7
Built on his man-of-the-match display on Good Friday with another energetic performance in Greater Manchester. Pools looked to get him and Grey into the game early on, although the teenager had to content himself with defending as Dale dominated the opening exchanges. Made the most of some newfound freedom after Mitchell was given his marching orders and was an asset getting forward and tracking back, even if he couldn't quite prevent Rodney from rolling in the equaliser. Photo: Frank Reid
6. Nicky Featherstone: 6
Together with Tom Crawford, the skipper had to work hard for the first 37 minutes and, while he didn't see much of the ball, did well to maintain his shape and provide some cover to the back four. Was more involved in possession after the hosts were reduced to 10, although at times Pools were perhaps a little too cumbersome with the ball. Wasn't helped by a muddy surface, especially in central areas. Photo: Mark Fletcher
7. Tom Crawford: 6
Unsurprisingly, his influence grew as the game wore on and Rochdale had to contend with being a man down. Had some nice moments, especially in the second half, and carried the ball well. Like Featherstone, he was typically tidy but couldn't find the killer pass as the home side tried to make themselves difficult to break down. Photo: Mark Fletcher
8. Terrell Agyemang: 6
Produced one scintillating moment of skill when he controlled the ball on his chest and flicked it over the Dale full-back although his lack of pace largely negates his threat when he tries to go down the line and he looks more dangerous coming inside. A bit of a mixed bag, including one poor first touch that saw the ball roll over his foot as well as a couple of blocked shots, before he was replaced after 70 minutes. Photo: Mark Fletcher