Walsall 0-3 Rochdale

Calvin Andrew's two goals doubled his tally for the season

Calvin Andrew scored twice after Andrew Henderson had hit Rochdale's opening goal at Bescot as new Walsall boss Sean O'Driscoll suffered his first defeat.

Andrew Cannon cut the ball back for Henderson to fire an early first-time shot past home keeper Neil Etheridge.

George Evans' blocked 20-yard drive was Walsall's only effort of note as they struggled to create clear chances.

Andrew headed Dale further ahead from a 58th-minute corner before sweeping in a third on the break late on.

After their first defeat in eight games, in all competitions, the morning League One leaders drop out of the automatic promotion places to third.

Rochdale are now up to ninth, within six points of the play-off places.

Walsall head coach Sean O'Driscoll told BBC WM:

"Frustrating. We didn't play well enough so we've got to take it on the chin.

"We started slowly but, credit to Rochdale, they've done their homework on us.

"They made it really difficult for us to get any rhythm.

"We huffed and puffed but we didn't really do enough."

Rochdale boss Keith Hill told BBC Radio Manchester:

"It was the perfect performance. The players have executed the game plan to perfection. Not many mistakes.

"We totally dominated. I was really pleased with our game plan and the way we created opportunities.

"We've got a lot of respect for Walsall but, over 90 minutes, that was a great reflection of the capabilities of the squad we've got."