The 2018-19 campaign delivered a crucial year of League One survival for Rochdale as The Dale navigated a turbulent season that saw a mid-season managerial change to ultimately finish 16th. Leading the charge and proving his enduring value was their captain and cult hero Ian Henderson, whose 20 league goals provided the vital attacking thrust needed for safety. The season was also memorable for a personal milestone for Henderson, as he scored his 100th goal for the club during their FA Cup run, marking a defining chapter for the talismanic striker.