ROCHDALE head north to Darlington hoping to start the New Year by extending their seven-game unbeaten run.

Player boss Paul Simpson said: "Our position now looks much better but we are aware that we need to start turning draws into wins.

"We should have beaten both Wrexham and Bournemouth but we must learn to hold on when we get in front."

After a good display after coming off the bench at Bournemouth, midfielder Michael Oliver may well replace the out-of-sorts Gavin Melaugh against his former club.

Wing back Lee Duffy missed the trip to Bournemouth with a foot injury and other than that Simpson's only injury problems surround long-term victims Patrick McCourt, Chris Beech and Steve Macauley.

LAST SEASON: Darlington 1 Rochdale 0

KEY OPPONENT: Barry Conlon - the former Manchester City player has been among the goals this season.

FORECAST: Darlington 1 Rochdale 2. Tweet