But little over 10 minutes later they were behind after Lee Thorpe and Chris Dagnall scored for Dale.
Although Gary Madine levelled for the Cumbrians, they were beaten 4-3 in the penalty shootout.
Huddersfield fell at Darlington, with the defender Alan White scoring the only goal of the game.
Morecambe went through after a penalty shootout win over Chester at the Deva Stadium, the game had finished 1-1.
Andy Bishop's goal after 77 minutes gave Alan Knill's Bury a 1-0 win over Stockport County at Gigg Lane.
Shrewsbury Town claimed the result of the night in the southern section, recording a stunning 7-0 win at Wycombe Wanderers.
The forward Grant Holt scored five of the goals, including three in a five minute spell towards the end of the game.
Brighton and Hove Albion sent Orient packing, though only after a penalty shootout at the Withdean Stadium.
The tie had finished 2-2, with the Seagulls prevailing 5-4 in the shootout.
Colchester United were 1-0 victors at Gillingham, with the midfielder Mark Yeates scoring the only goal.
Mark Nwokeji's strike gave Dagenham and Redbridge an impressive 1-0 win at Peterborough United.
Bournemouth also claimed a League One scalp, with Darren Anderton's late goal giving them a 1-0 success at MK Dons.
Luton Town progressed at the expense of Brentford, winning a penalty shootout 4-3 after the tie at Kenliworth Road had finished 2-2.
Swindon Town beat Hereford United 2-1 at Edgar Street, and Walsall saw off Cheltenham Town at Whaddon Road by the same scoreline.