Manager Keith Hill spoke to Dale Player following Saturday’s 3-0 win over Hartlepool United at Victoria Park…
“I’m delighted,” said Hill. “You’re a little bit concerned especially after last week when we beat Leeds. All the talk has been about Leeds this week and I think everyone was expecting us to slip up today. I half understand why because we used to do a lot of statistical work on energy out-put when we’re playing against Championship sides and it can drain you for a week.
“The Championship is physically very difficult to play in and you do need a lot of rest. We tried to get the balance right this week and I think we have done.
“The first half was a massive wrestle between two sides, but it’s all about results. We said that we’ve got 22 league cup ties if you like, and the players had that hunger today. With respect to the opposition, they had the first chance of the game and again it was probably down to our own fault - I think Oliver got caught in possession leading to the free-kick and they’ve hit the inside of the post. But really it was quite even in the first half and we stepped it up in the second half and got our just rewards, so I’m really pleased.”
The full interview is available on Dale Player.