Rochdale midfielder Peter Vincenti says his side’s fans can make the difference as they look to extend their unbeaten run at home this season on Saturday with the visit of Newport County.
In the two teams’ first meeting for 25 years, Dale will be looking to capitalise on home advantage as they attempt to move back into the League Two play-off places.
Dale have dropped just two points at home so far and Vincenti says fan support is quickly turning their home ground into an extremely tough place to visit.
“The fans have been brilliant,” said Vincenti before training on Friday.
“We want to make the home games difficult for opposing teams and make [Spotland] a fortress and the fans contribute to that with the noise they make. All we can ask is for them to keep going.”
Dale are looking to build on their victory over League One Port Vale in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy, a game where they gave the hosts something of a footballing lesson.
“I don’t know why there’s still a stereotypical view in the lower leagues that you lump it long to a big centre forward,” Vincenti added.
“Port Vale did that on Tuesday and they came unstuck because we passed the ball around and controlled the game. So it shows that even down in the lower leagues if you pass the ball you can still get results.”
Vincenti also praised 18-year-old Jamie Allen, who made a fine debut at Port Vale, and newly crowned PFA Fans Player of the Month, Scott Hogan.
“I think he (Allen) is an exceptional young player, he looked like a cultured player (on Tuesday).”
He added of Hogan: “Some of the goals he’s scored this season have been brilliant. He’s an exciting player and you know when he gets the ball that something could happen.”
Promoted side Newport arrive just one point behind Dale and despite his side’s formidable home form, Vincenti is still expecting a tough game.
“Any team coming out of the conference needs to have a good squad, because it’s such a difficult league to get out now, so it’ll be a difficult game.”
Image courtesy of Mansfield Town via YouTube, with thanks.
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