Brian Barry-Murphy spoke of his delight following Dale’s impressive performance against promotion chasing Rotherham United on Saturday.
Dale won 3-1 thanks to goals from Ian Henderson (2) and Matty Lund to record a double over the Millers in the Sky Bet League One.
The Dale boss was pleased with his players and how they applied themselves throughout the match to bounce back from defeat against Portsmouth last time out.
He said: “I’m pleased for everyone really, the atmosphere in the stadium today reminded me of last season when we put a great run of form together.
“The lads gave absolutely everything like they did last week away at Portsmouth.
“I think we played really well at Portsmouth and lost but we knew we created chances and performed well against a top team just like we did today.
“Like Portsmouth they [Rotherham] score in pretty much every game so it’s very hard to keep them out.
“Defensively the lads did everything we wanted and the fact we conceded a late goal didn’t matter because we’d scored enough goals to win the game.”
Dale scored three goals in a game for the first time since October, with Henderson taking his tally for the Club to 126.
Barry-Murphy was impressed with how hard the whole team worked to create numerous chances for Dale’s attacking line.
“The forward guys have been asking for that service and the lads all over the team provided it and we scored the goals today that allowed us to withstand the late onslaught from Rotherham.
“I thought all of our midfield did well with their intensity and their hard work in terms of competing against an outstanding team who are arguably the most physical and strongest in the league.
“The three guys in midfield supported by Campsy gave us an incredible foothold in the game both defensively and offensively.
“It was a huge part in what was a brilliant day for everyone at the Club.”
Dale played on the front foot and caused problems for Rotherham until the final whistle.
“I thought we were on the front foot all game and the lads were determined to push on right until the end.
“Aaron Morley replicated a great cross to Henderson and from the resulting corner O’Connell had a great chance.
“The players showed a great understanding of what they want to be, and it was brilliant for everybody because the supporters have been craving that.
“All the staff have worked incredibly hard all week in preparation to allow the players to produce that performance and it was a brilliant team effort from everyone.”