Port Vale and Rochdale are still locked at 0-0 despite a fast-paced first 45 minutes at Vale Park which has been full of chances for either side.
Calvin Andrew, making just his third league start of the season, almost put the visitors ahead inside the first two minutes, but the forward sent his glancing header the wrong side of the post.
Michael Rose then thumped an effort wide of the upright as Rochdale began in a positive manner.
Chris Neal kept his side level with a sprawling save from Stephen Dawson's shot before Andrew headed wide once more.
Port Vale had struggled to get into the game in the opening quarter of an hour, but they almost took the lead in the 16th minute. Adam Yates saw his drive deflected into the air and only a couple of reaction saves from Conrad Logan kept the home side out.
Dany N'Guessan then bent an effort wide of the upright as Port Vale gained confidence, and Michael O'Connor saw his free kick from 30 yards flick off the wall and drop behind for a corner.