“A point in the right direction” is how Joe Thompson described Dale’s draw with neighbours Oldham Athletic on Tuesday night.
Dale dominated the game which ended goalless, after having a penalty saved and a goal disallowed, and Thompson says the players are still confident going into the final four games of the season.
“I think we had the lion’s share of the game,” said Thompson.
“We were unlucky with the penalty and the goalkeeper has made some good saves throughout the game, to be fair to him.
“The defenders have done really well – Josh hasn’t had a save to make.
“Unfortunately for us we couldn’t put it in the back of the net at the other end, but Josh having a quiet game, which is complete contrast to Saturday where he did absolutely superb, is all in the right direction.
“It’s a point gained – we would have liked to have got all three, but we’ve not lost and we keep the momentum moving forward.
“We just got to keep driving forward as we go into Saturday, Tuesday and Saturday again, and we’ll see how we get on. The lads are still confident – it’s not like we’ve been losing games.
“The games are coming thick and fast, and you’ve got to pick yourselves up and going again.
“The effort on Saturday, to a man, was massive, and tonight, everyone was outstanding as well. It was a big, brave performance and we’re unfortunate not to come away with a point.”
Tuesday saw Thompson make his first start since being diagnosed – and overcoming – cancer for a second time.
“It’s been a long, long road, and I’ve still got work to do. It’s probably been 12 months since my last start, so I was delighted to get out there and the adrenaline got me through!
“The team have been doing well and I’ve had to bide my time a little bit. I just make sure I do everything as professional as possible, so when I am called upon I can go out there and do a job for the manager, the fans and the lads.”
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