Rochdale turned the formbook on its head to demolish Division Three leaders Hartlepool 4-0 at Spotland.

The hosts opened the scoring in the 23rd minute when Clive Platt glanced home Matt Doughty's cross.

They went further ahead after a defensive mix-up allowed Lee McEvilly to side-foot home just before the interval.

Seven minutes after the break David Flitcroft's presence again troubled the United defence and when he forced Chris Westwood to mis-control the ball, Paul Connor was on hand to rifle home.

Rochdale confirmed their superiority as Connor turned provider and picked out McEvilly, who guided the ball into the top right-hand corner in the 64th minute to cap a fine display.

Rochdale: Edwards, Evans, Jobson, Grand, Duffy, Flitcroft, Melaugh, Doughty, Connor, Platt, McEvilly. Subs: Gilks, Simpson, McCourt, Townson, Hill.

Hartlepool: Anthony Williams, Bass, Lee, Westwood, Arnison, Tinkler, Widdrington, Humphreys, Barry-Murphy, Eifion Williams, Richardson. Subs: Provett, Henderson, Istead, Boyd, Sharp.

Referee: M Pike (Cumbria)