ROCHDALE AFC could provide a lifeline for Hornets after the two clubs held talks on a proposed merger this week.

Details of the merger were discussed at a meeting at Spotland on Tuesday with representatives of Rochdale AFC, the Stadium Company and what remains of the Rochdale Hornets board.

Observer Sport understands Dale and the stadium company have formulated a plan of action to secure the rugby league club’s immediate future. Though talks are at an early stage, the initial discussions went well and the proposed plans were approved in principle by the Hornets representatives present at Tuesday’s meeting.

Should the proposals get the go-ahead from the Rugby Football League and Hornets shareholders, the merger would, in effect, see Dale take on responsibility for the running and administration of their Spotland co-tenants.

It is not clear at this stage quite how Hornets’ debts will be paid off nor how the winding up order against them could affect Dale if the two clubs merge. These matters are being looked into in depth before the deal progresses.

The two clubs have enjoyed something of a fractious relationship down the years and talk of such a merger will not please all supporters on either side of the fence.

However, with the rugby club facing a winding up order from the Inland Revenue for £55,000 and the 14 January deadline looming, time is running out for Hornets.

Supporters and coach Darren Shaw have voiced concerns over the lack of information coming out of the club since the winding up order was announced at a shareholders meeting on 1 December. Earlier this week the Observer told how chairman Norman Halsall had stepped down after just three weeks in the role. With that in mind, news of Dale’s proposal provides a glimmer of hope for the club.

The RFL did not attend the meeting, though they would be willing to hear any proposal that might secure Hornets’ future.

"If Hornets come to the table with a proposal to merge with the football club then we’d certainly take a look at it," said spokesman Craig Spence.

It remains to be seen whether provision has been made to keep coach Shaw and his current crop of players at the club should the merger take place. The uncertainty surrounding Hornets has already seen the departure of Mick Fogarty who looks set to join Halifax.