Last updated on .From the section Football

Rochdale kept up their push for automatic promotion from League Two with victory at Exeter.

The Grecians are without a win at St James Park since 5 October and they went down to Jamie Allen's goal on the stroke of half-time.

John O'Flynn blazed a gilt-edged chance over for the hosts, and Allen made them pay when he tapped in after his first effort was saved.

Matthew Lund hit a post for Dale as Exeter struggled after the break.

Rochdale manager Keith Hill told BBC Radio Manchester:

"I thought we managed the game with and without the game superbly. We created really good opportunities.

"It's great to get a clean sheet. Clean sheets ultimately, for me, win games.

"We trust every one of these players and they trust me with the decision-making.

"My players are free of pressure. We've already achieved an enormous amount this season and we'll continue to do that as long as we play happy."