ROCHDALE Hornets have missed out on the play-offs but chairman Ray Taylor insists it's still been a marvellous first season under Bobbie Goulding's guidance.

Few would disagree and Goulding must be a contender for coach of the year.

Hornets were labelled relegation certainties at the start of the season. Four players turned up for the first training session.

Goulding has since turned things around and team spirit has never been stronger although yesterday's clash with Batley was possibly one game too far.

Chairman Taylor said: "We have gone forward this season and Bobbie deserves enomous credit. We can look back on some great performances."

In a game that ebbed and flowed, Batley took a 12-0 lead, only to see Hornets bounce back and go ahead 20-12.

The visitors held their nerve and, helped by eight consecutive penalties from referee Laughton, regained the lead. Tweet