Rhys Bennett has been sharing his memories of last season’s FA Cup run, ahead of this weekend’s trip to Aldershot Town.
Dale reached the fourth round of the competition last season, recording wins over Torquay United, Rotherham United and Leeds United, before eventually exiting the Cup following a 2-1 defeat to Sheffield Wednesday.
Rhys pin points the victories over the Millers and Leeds United as his highlights of last year’s competition.
He told Dale Player: “Hendo’s goal and the 2-0 win over Leeds stands out for me. It was an outstanding win for the football club. But not only that game, the win at Rotherham too when we were 1-0 down. We weren’t playing great in the first half but to turn it around was a great moment.”
Dale left it late to book their place in the second round of this year's competition, needing two late goals, including a stoppage time winner from Olly Lancashire, to see off Northampton Town in a replay at Spotland last month.
The 23-year-old admits he was relieved when the Rochdale Skipper headed beyond Jordan Archer.
“It was a relief because I really wanted to get through to the next round. Once Olly scored I think you could see from the team celebration and my own celebration how happy we were to have won the game. It’s a competition I really enjoy playing in and I’m really looking forward to Sunday.”
Rhys has played in several positions this season, but he says he doesn’t have a preference – he’s just happy to play games.
“I’ve had a good run in the team this season and I’m enjoying my football. I like playing football so I like all aspects of the game, whether that be attacking, defending, scoring goals or stopping goals, and when I play a bit further forward it gives me a chance to enjoy myself a little bit more, but I don’t really mind – I just want to win.”
The full interview is available to view on Dale Player.