Southend United 2 - 2 Rochdale: Rochdale fight back to claim a point at Southend

Posted Sunday, November 01, 2015 by PA

Rochdale fought back from two goals down to secure a 2-2 draw at Southend.

The Shrimpers led 2-0 at the break with David Mooney and Ryan Leonard both on target.

But three substitutions at half-time sparked the visitors back into life as they salvaged a share of the spoils.

Southend went in front after 39 minutes when Mooney netted from the penalty spot after goalkeeper Josh Lillis brought Leonard down in the box.

Two minutes later, the Shrimpers doubled their lead when Leonard collected a pass from Stephen McLaughlin before stroking a low shot into the bottom left hand corner of the net.

However, Rochdale stepped things up after the break and got back into the game in the 63rd minute when a deflected, 14-yard volley from Joe Bunney flew into the back of the net.

Michael Rose equalised 14 minutes later with a fine, 25 yard free-kick which curled into the bottom left hand corner.

Calvin Andrew was then denied by Daniel Bentley as Rochdale looked for a late winner before they had strong shouts for a penalty waved away when Luke Prosser appeared to pull Ian Henderson back in the area.