Rochdale 1-0 Charlton Athletic: Joe Thompson scores winner as Dale survive

Thompson (right) made his return in December after recovering from cancer

Rochdale beat Charlton to secure their place in League One thanks to a goal from Joe Thompson, who returned earlier in the season after recovering from cancer for a second time.

Oldham could only draw with Northampton on the final day, meaning those two clubs filled the remaining two relegation spots.

Despite the defeat, the Addicks secured a play-off place as nearest rivals Plymouth were beaten 5-2 at Gillingham.

Substitute Thompson gave Dale the lead in the 69th minute by smashing a low shot through a sea of Charlton players.

The hosts could have been in front at half-time with Ian Henderson going close when he struck a post from close range.

Charlton keeper Ben Amos then turned away Ryan Delaney's header before Jake Forster-Caskey twice went close at the other end with shots from distance.

Amos was then on hand to deny attempts from Calvin Andrew and Callum Camps before Thompson scored the decisive goal that saw Dale condemn neighbours Oldham to the drop.

Thompson's inspirational return

Thompson returned to action for Rochdale on 23 December in a 1-1 draw with Walsall, having spent nine months being treated for a second bout of cancer.

He was first diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma in 2013 before being given the all clear in 2014 after completing a six-month course of chemotherapy.

In March 2017 he was diagnosed with cancer for a second time but since making his comeback he has made 11 appearances, with his only goal being the decisive one on the final day of the season that has kept Rochdale in League One for next season.

League One play-off semi-final dates

Thursday, 10 May (19:45 BST): Charlton Athletic v Shrewsbury Town

Sunday, 13 May (17:15 BST): Shrewsbury Town v Charlton Athletic