Substitute Tarryn Allarakhia’s late winner proved the difference as Rochdale beat play-off contenders Gateshead 1-0 in the National League.

Tiernan Brooks made a great save to deny Kairo Mitchell in the fifth minute and Gateshead did well to defend two promising crosses from Leon Ayinde and Connor McBride.

The Heed had chances of their own when Jovan Malcolm smashed an effort into the side of the net before Liam Humbles’ shot flashed wide of the post.

Rochdale almost took the lead minutes into the second half when McBride smashed his strike off the woodwork and he came close again with a chance that curled just past the post.

However, just four minutes after being brought on the pitch, Allarakhia found the breakthrough after smashing the ball home from close range in the 82nd minute.