Manager Keith Hill on Dale’s 3-3 draw with Portsmouth at the Crown Oil Arena…
“I thought we played superb offensive football,” said the Gaffer.
“We took the game to the opponent and I think Portsmouth rode their luck. They’re an excellent side and they didn’t go away, and they got the equaliser.
“The key component of Portsmouth is Brett Pitman, who is involved in all three goals today at some point. I said to my central defenders that it’s typical of them having a good game today but their striker [Brett Pitman], who is the main threat scores two goals and is involved in the final equaliser as we go into the embers of the game.
“We should have done better in those situations with the long balls forward, but I’m really pleased with the energy, the commitment, the way the players played, and arguably, it could be a good point.
He added: “Portsmouth are a good side and beat Wigan earlier this week, and they’re on a really good run, having won four before today and conceding just one. They’ve conceded three today because of the way we attacked, and it’s just a shame that we couldn’t get the balance to the way that we defended.
“99.9% of the way that we defended was really good, but it’s those small moments and those key duals when they opposition have got a bit of assertiveness.
“That’s where Harrison McGahey and Joe Rafferty have to show a bit more maturity. I thought they were excellent today and had really good games, but defensively, there are lapses and that’s where they’ve got to make sure they improve on their concentration. I suppose I’m singling those two players out because I want them to improve, because they are the key components for our future at this football club.
“But the players have done enough, they’ve done more than enough. I’m pleased with everything except the score line. We’ve pushed an excellent side, who’ll probably get into the play-offs, all the way.”
Watch the full interview on iFollow.