Keith Hill’s side head to promotion hopefuls Fleetwood Town this Saturday looking to make it back-to-back wins following Easter Monday’s important victory over Exeter City.
Ahead of the match at the Highbury Stadium, Hill has been reflecting on the game at St James' Park as well as looking ahead to Saturday's encounter.
“We’re not safe yet but [Monday’s victory] was a big send out to the other teams below us that there’s a fighting spirit," said Hill. "Not just that but a playing standard at Rochdale Football Club. We played really well on Monday but we were staring defeat in the face again which was quite remarkable really considering the way that we played and the chances we created. It was one of those performances where you’re disappointed with the goal but happy with everything else.
“I was really pleased for the players because it could have been such a reversal of emotions had we lost that game looking at the league table. It was very pleasing to get the rewards that we deserved.”
He continued: “The boys have had a couple of days rest because they needed it emotionally. It does take a lot out of you because of the physical and mental drain that those two games [over Easter] have put on the players, the staff and the supporters. It has been quite harsh so they’ve had a little bit of time to reflect. There’s a smile on the players’ faces rather than a little bit of trepidation so we’re looking forward to the Fleetwood game.
“We have to make sure that we can get as many points as we possibly can up at Fleetwood and going into the game against Southend on Wednesday. I’m looking forward to it, the players are looking forward to it and we’re well versed.”
You can listen to the full 11 minute interview with Hilly on Dale Player now.