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.
9. Callum Cooke: 6
In general, a productive afternoon for the 26-year-old although he could do with adding some more goal involvements to his game. Had a golden chance to do just that in the dying embers of the contest when he went through one-on-one but fired straight at Australian goalkeeper Jacob Chapman, which proved costly a few minutes later. Photo: Mark Fletcher
10. Joe Grey: 8
Continued his fine scoring form with his fifth goal in nine games, an acrobatic and inventive effort that was almost enough for all three points. Created opportunities for Cooke and Dieseruvwe and again formed a threatening partnership with the teenage Stephenson. A real handful for pretty much any defence he comes up against at the moment. Photo: Mark Fletcher
11. Mani Dieseruvwe: 7
Although he said after the game that he was frustrated not to have made more of a couple of half chances, he provided an assist after heading the ball down for Grey's opener and replicated some of the excellent link-up play he demonstrated against Halifax. Photo: Mark Fletcher
12. Chay Cooper: 5
As the dust settles, it's hard not to feel sympathy for the young man. After coming on for Agyemang, he had probably his best game in a Pools shirt, making a couple of excellent defensive contributions while showing some nice footwork and swinging in one teasing cross. Was made to pay for a mistake after trying a flick down by the corner when all he needed to do was keep hold of possession as Pools ran the clock down. Instead, he incomprehensibly gave the ball away and 30 seconds later Dale equalised. Better at least that he made the mistake on Monday than 72 hours before against Halifax. He will surely learn from it. Photo: Mark Fletcher