Survival to Silverware

The inside story of Rochdale AFC' s historic 2025/26 season, when a club defined by survival finally claimed its first national trophy. Two years after relegation from the Football League and amid financial uncertainty and a bitter takeover battle that threatened the club' s existence, Rochdale stood on the brink. What followed was one of the most remarkable seasons in the club' s 119-year history, culminating in a triumphant afternoon at Wembley as National League play-off winners. This gripping account charts that journey in full, featuring: • The dramatic rebuild of Rochdale AFC following relegation, financial crisis and a divisive takeover attempt • The arrival of the Ogden family and the implementation of a sustainable, community-driven ownership model • Jim McNulty' s transformation from player to promotion-winning head coach, and the philosophy behind his success • The story of a football club rediscovering its identity, reconnecting with its supporters and redefining what success means at Spotland Essential reading for Rochdale supporters, followers of lower-league football and anyone drawn to this powerful story of resilience, revival and community.