Dale’s under 18 side picked up their first league win of the season on Tuesday afternoon with a 2-1 victory over Carlisle United at Radcliffe Borough.
The win followed three defeats and a draw for the Youth Team, who kicked off their campaign last month.
Head of Academy Coaching, Rick Ashcroft, has been reflecting on the victory, telling Dale PlayerHD: “We picked up a point then had some loses, which has been a bit of a difficult one in terms of what we’re trying to achieve.
“To pick up three points is really important because no matter what, it’s about learning and developing, and that includes learning to win, creating good habits and doing the right thing.
“That’s what we’re after, as well as the win and performance to match. It’s nice to get the win but we’re after more and we’re striving for more as we build for the future. We’re striving for better performances, both individually and collectively.”
Dale faced Carlisle United just a fortnight ago in the reverse fixture, losing the game 2-0. Ashcroft believes the group is taking steps in the right direction.
“The first half against Burnley on Saturday was very good but we’re losing and conceding easy goals, which is something that we need to rectify. That’ll give us something to build on and also take the chances that we’re creating.
“It is improving – they are taking steady steps in the right direction and hopefully [today] will be a little spring board for us to go onwards and upwards, and to keep trying to move in the right direction.”
The full interview, as well as the goals from the 2-1 win are available to view on Dale PlayerHD.