James Norwood strike helps Oldham edge seven-goal thriller against Rochdale

James Norwood’s 72nd-minute strike helped Oldham edge out Rochdale in a seven-goal thriller at Crown Oil Arena.

Jimmy Keohane netted a brace for hosts Rochdale, but it failed to halt the winless run of James McNulty’s team, which has now extended to eight games in all competitions after this 4-3 loss.

Nathan Sheron put Oldham ahead after 16 minutes before a goal frenzy occurred following half-time with Devarn Green making it 2-0 in the 49th-minute.

Keohane helped reduced the deficit soon after, his shot being deflected in off Mitchell, before he turned goalscorer to level the scores on the hour mark for Rochdale.

Hallam Hope immediately put Oldham back ahead and Norwood’s smart finish from a tight angle with 18 minutes left looked to make the points safe for the visitors.

Keohane sparked an exciting finale when he netted again with a close-range finish from a corner and despite 16 minutes of stoppage time, Oldham held on to move up to 10th in the Vanarama National League.