Bristol Rovs 1-2 Rochdale

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Rochdale player-manager Paul Simpson hit a late winner to earn victory and leave Bristol Rovers with just one point from three games.

Simpson struck with the outside of his left foot after 78 minutes as Rovers failed to close him down and it was no more than the visitors deserved after twice hitting the woodwork in the first half.

Clive Platt headed Rochdale in front on the half hour, but Simon Bryant equalised from close range just before the break following a good run by Wayne Carlisle.

Dale should have been ahead before Platt's goal as they dominated the early exchanges and created several chances against a hesitant defence.

Chris Beech rattled the Rovers' crossbar with a 24th-minute header and six minutes later skipper Gareth Griffiths did the same as he rose to meet a left wing corner.

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Bristol Rovers: Howie, Boxall, Uddin, Barrett, Challis, Carlisle, Quinn, Bryant, McKeever, Tait, Grazioli. Subs: Clarke, Hogg, Gall, Shore, Richards.

Rochdale: Edwards, Evans, Griffiths, Macauley, Doughty, Flitcroft, Oliver, Beech, Simpson, McEvilly, Platt. Subs: Gilks, Hodges, Townson, Duffy, Connor.

Referee: M Warren (W Midlands).