Boston hold Rochdale to force FA Cup replay

Boston were good value for a goalless draw at Sky Bet League One side Rochdale as they earned a place in the draw for the FA Cup third round.

The Vanarama National League North club bossed long periods of the game, denying the home team the space they needed to impose their game plan.

Having been second best for much of the opening period, Dale did have the ball in the net two minutes before the interval when Callum Camps’ shot struck a post and Ian Henderson converted the rebound only to be flagged offside.

But Boston continued to look the stronger side after the interval and went close when Jordan Thewlis teed up Andi Thanoj, unmarked in a central position on the edge of the area. However, Dale goalkeeper Robert Sanchez kept his effort out.

The home side mounted a late period of pressure, Rhys Norrington-Davies seeing a 30-yard drive pushed over the top by Peter Crook in the Boston goal.

Crook also saved Ollie Rathbone’s piledriver, Henderson heading the rebound over the top as Boston held out to secure a replay at York Street.