Match preview: Solihull Moors welcome red-hot Rochdale to The ARMCO Arena
The ARMCO Arena will host a compelling Enterprise National League contest on 21/01/2026 as Solihull Moors try to arrest a mixed run of results against a confident Rochdale side. Solihull sit 10th with a respectable 38 points from 27 matches; their season has been punctuated by eye-catching wins — a 5-1 romp at Aldershot and a 7-1 demolition of Tamworth — but also some defensive fragility, conceding 41 goals so far. Rochdale arrive in far better league form, sitting 4th with 55 points from 23 games, boasting 18 wins and a stingy defensive record that has seen them concede just 16 goals across the campaign.
Form and numbers that matter
Solihull’s recent results show a team capable of scoring in bursts — 48 goals overall and a home goals tally of 33 — but their home defensive numbers are less reassuring; they’ve conceded 23 at The ARMCO Arena. Their recent string includes a 3-3 draw with Carlisle, underlining both their attacking intent and occasional lapses at the back. Rochdale, meanwhile, arrive with momentum: eight wins in their last ten reported results and a clinical away record. Their defensive solidity is highlighted by 13 clean sheets and a low goals-against figure, especially away from home where they’ve conceded 10. Statistically, both teams have been involved in matches with goals — over 2.5 goals has occurred in more than half of their games — and they average healthy shot volumes, indicating an open contest is likely.
Key storylines and players to watch
Rochdale’s recent victory at Gateshead (2-0) and their convincing wins in December suggest a side that has adapted well this season; Immanuelson Duku was singled out as their best performer in the last outing, a sign of individual contributions underpinning team form. Solihull’s draw against Carlisle saw Darius Lipsiuc emerge as the standout for his side, showing they possess players capable of influencing results even when the defensive work isn’t perfect.
Prediction & betting tip
Looking at league positions, recent form and head-to-head history — Rochdale thumped Solihull 4-1 when they met in September — the smart pick is a Rochdale victory. Their consistency, defensive resilience and high win ratio (18 wins from 23) tilt this tie in their favour. Solihull will attack and create chances, but Rochdale look better equipped to control the match and convert opportunities.
Recommended bet (1x2 market): Back Rochdale to win. This is the preferred single-market suggestion based on form, defensive record and the teams’ recent head-to-head.
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