Johnson double in Latics' derby-day romp

ATHLETIC kept their charge for the Sky Bet League One play-offs firmly on track thanks to a well-deserved derby victory at Rochdale.

Lee Johnson's men put Rochdale to the sword late in the game as they eventually cruised to a first win at Spotland since 1974.

Amidst a raucous atmosphere at a packed-out Spotland, Athletic enjoyed the better of the first period and they deservedly led at the interval.

They struck in the 25th minute.

Danny Philliskirk threaded a neat through-ball to Daniel Johnson, and though 'keeper Conrad Logan saved an initial effort, the Aston Villa loanee followed up confidently to slot home his second goal for Lee Johnson's side.

Rochdale threatened only sporadically in the first half.

Matty Lund headed narrowly over, while Jamie Allen also went close.

At the other end, Logan was agile in keeping out a piledriver from Mike Jones just before the break.

Athletic doubled their lead in the 73rd minute when Jonathan Forte slotted home his 13th goal of the season from the spot after Reuben Noble-Lazarus inexplicably tugged back Philliskirk as he surged into the box.

The travelling army celebrated hard again with 10 minutes to go as their side wrapped up a clinical victory.

Again Philliskirk teed up Johnson, and again the Villa loanee side-footed confidently past Logan to register his second goal of the game.

**Were you there? What an atmosphere! Send us your comments