Manager Keith Hill has been reflecting on Saturday’s 1-0 win over Chesterfield…
“The boys were getting a little bit down mentally because of the two previous results and the way that we had lost the games,” Hill told Dale Player.
“We scored three goals in those two games, enough to pick up points away from home, so it was about trying to re-establish a bit of self-belief. I think once we scored the goal [at the weekend] it was evident that the self-belief and the confidence were reinstated.
“It’s very difficult because the difference between sides within a league isn’t about ability at times, it’s about mental stability and confidence, and I think we saw it drip back in.
“It’s amazing how football and players’ attitudes and performance levels change in seconds in football - that’s what’s so unique about it.”
Josh Lillis pulled off a match winning save deep in stoppage time as he tipped an effort from Caolan Lavery over the bar. Hill is pleased for his ‘keeper and pleased with the way that his side defended.
“It has done him the world of good. It’s his first league clean sheet since Cheltenham at home last season so it has been a long time, but thoroughly deserved.
“I think the players, including the substitutes, defended exceptionally well. They defended in the slots and it’s reassuring that we can find that type of result when we need to.
“It wasn’t a spectacle with respect to free flowing football but we got the job done and the three points are enormous. The points were needed and they’re welcome when you look at the fixtures we’ve got coming up.”
The full interview is available to view on Dale Player.