After a slow start, Alfie Clark came closest early on with a sweetly struck volley off the bar, followed by Jorden Mbola testing the Croydon keeper with a sharp turn and shot. Will Bell then denied The Trams with an excellent face block from an overhead attempt, ensuring it remained level heading into the break.
In the second half, the deadlock was broken when Nathan Palmer latched onto a neat ball from a trialist and finished well on the half-volley to put Dale ahead. Croydon responded shortly after, slotting home a rebound despite a brave initial block.
The game’s final chance fell to Croydon, but centre-back Storm Glautier was on hand to clear off the line, preserving the draw.

Next match, home to AFC Greenwich Borough on Saturday with a 3 PM Kick-off!