Priority window opens for Dale fans ahead of season’s first competitive fixture
Rochdale supporters can now secure their place for the club’s opening competitive match of the 2026/27 campaign, after tickets went on sale for the Carabao Cup preliminary round trip to Tranmere Rovers. The tie is scheduled for Saturday 1 August 2026 with a 3pm kick-off at Prenton Park.
The club has confirmed an away allocation of 2,006, with Dale fans to be seated in the Cowsheds End on the south side of the ground. A 48-hour purchasing window is in place for current season ticket holders via the club’s online ticketing platform, before any remaining seats move to general sale at 12pm on Wednesday 22 July.
Prices and categories
Supporters are being encouraged to buy in advance to take advantage of lower rates. The host club has issued the following price structure for away fans:
| Category | Advance | On the day |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | £10 | £12 |
| Senior (65+) | £7 | £9 |
| Young Person (18–22) & Junior (14–17) | £7 | £9 |
| Family Junior (U14) | £7 | £9 |
| Disabled plus carer | £7 | £9 |
The club has also advised that wheelchair bays are located in the home end at Prenton Park. Supporters who require accessible seating should check availability and arrangements when booking through the ticket office channels.
Where Dale fans will be housed
Away fans will be in the all-seated Cowsheds End on the south side of Tranmere’s ground. The section is segregated from home areas and typically provides clear sightlines behind the goal. Fans are advised to arrive in good time to clear any entry checks and to familiarise themselves with stadium signage to reach the correct turnstiles.
Key dates and how to buy
- Now: 48-hour priority purchase window for current season ticket holders via the club’s online ticketing site.
- Wednesday 22 July, 12pm: Remaining tickets go on general sale.
- Saturday 1 August, 3pm: Tranmere Rovers v Rochdale, Prenton Park (Carabao Cup preliminary round).
Those planning to purchase on matchday should note the higher prices compared with advance tickets. The club’s guidance indicates that on-the-day sales, where offered, carry a premium of £2 across categories.
Travel and supporter information
The Rochdale Supporters Trust has confirmed it will not be running a coach for this fixture. Fans travelling independently are encouraged to plan their journeys in advance, allow additional time around the Wirral for weekend traffic, and check for any rail engineering works that could affect connections to Birkenhead. As with any away trip, supporters should verify last-mile travel arrangements and entry points before setting off.
As the first competitive outing of the season, the tie offers an early chance to gauge Dale’s progress in knockout competition. With an allocation exceeding 2,000, there is scope for a sizeable away following if demand is strong during the priority window and subsequent general sale. The club has stressed the importance of using official channels when purchasing to ensure seats are assigned within the designated away section.
Practical checklist for matchday
- Buy in advance to secure the lower price bands and preferred seating within the away section.
- Check accessible seating options early, as wheelchair bays are situated in the home end.
- Confirm your turnstile and entry time to minimise queuing at Prenton Park.
- If purchasing on the day, bring appropriate payment and leave extra time for ticketing and entry.
Further ticketing guidance, including any last-minute updates on availability or collection points, will be communicated through the club’s official channels in the run-up to the game. Supporters are advised to monitor the ticket site and club statements for changes to sale phases or allocations.
