National League

Hot-shot says Oli is the main man

Mani Dieseruvwe says Rochdale’s players knew that victory was assured when last weekend’s National League play-off final went to penalties.

by
The Non-League Football Paper Team
17 May 2026

By Chris Dunlavy

LIFTING THE MOOD: Rochdale’s late hero Mani Dieseruvwe

MANI Dieseruvwe says Rochdale’s players knew that victory was assured when last weekend’s National League play-off final went to penalties.
And the reason for their confidence? Teenage goalkeeper Oliver Whatmuff, who capped an outstanding season on loan from Manchester City by saving three of Boreham Wood’s spot-kicks to send Dale back to the EFL.
“Oli’s unbelievable,” said Dieseruvwe, whose 97th-minute equaliser to take the game to extra-time was his third stoppage time goal in the last four games.
“Once it went to...

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Related TopicsBoreham Wood EFL FA Trophy Josh Stones Mani Dieseruvwe National League Premium Rochdale Wembley

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