Source: PA
Dale edge out Saddlers in five-goal thriller
Skipper Gary Jones scored his sixth goal of the season from the penalty spot to secure Rochdale's first home win of 2010/11 courtesy of an entertaining 3-2 victory over Walsall.
The Saddlers snatched the lead just four minutes in when Darren Byfield's delivery found Jon Macken six yards out with his back to goal. The striker turned Craig Dawson before side-footing past Josh Lillis.
The home side took control of the game but rarely threatened Jon Brain's goal until the 28th minute when Brian Barry-Murphy's corner was fumbled by the Saddlers' stopper into the path of debutant Josh Thompson and he hooked home from six yards.
Brain was again at fault for Dale's second goal, spilling a shot from Chris O'Grady before seeing Anthony Elding ensure the ball crossed the line as it trickled towards goal.
However, the hosts' lead lasted seconds as Byfield levelled the scores in spectacular fashion, his 30-yard stunner beating Lillis and flying into the top corner.
But Jones put Dale in the driving seat and grabbed what turned out to be the winner with his spot-kick just after the hour mark after he was brought down by Clayton McDonald.
