Manager Keith Hill’s post-match assessment of Dale’s FA Cup fourth round tie v Stoke City…
“We tried to attack with intent, we tried to press the opposition, but with respect to the opposition they’re an excellent side.
“At times the game is marginal no matter where you stand in the football pyramid and it was tonight, but fair credit to Stoke. I think they managed the occasion well and were worthy winners in the end.”
He continued: “The Bojan goal [four minutes into the game] was a great piece of skill but it didn’t frighten us. I thought we were excellent in the first half especially. We created opportunities and on another day, possibly in the league format, a goal was in for us.
“At half time I’m reasonably content with the way we were performing. If we perform like that then the majority of the time we get a result but it’s very difficult against opposition from the Premier League. They managed the game well and they took our energy away from us with the timing of the goals. The second goal is five minutes into the second half, which virtually kills the spectacle as a contest.”
Hill added: “We don’t concentrate too much on the score line but it’s nice to get that consolation goal, if you like, for the hard work that the players have put in.
“I’m really pleased with the players and the performance that we put in against a very good Premier League side. I think the lads are a credit to the football club and they’ve not embarrassed us at all.”
The full interview is available to view on Dale Player.