Rochdale manager Keith Hill is hoping to recreate last season’s magnificent FA Cup run when his side begin this year’s adventure away to Northampton Town on Saturday.
Hill’s men reached the fourth round of the competition last year and the manager recognises the importance of the tournament in capturing the imagination of fans.
However, with Rochdale fifth in the league, the manager maintains that their league campaign remains the overriding priority.
“That’s the glory or the uncertainty of an FA Cup run [you don’t know how far you’ll progress], but one thing that’s certain is that it doesn’t affect our league standing,” Said Hill speaking to the official club website.
“We’re in really, really good league form and now we’ve got to try and replicate our league form in the FA Cup.
“If we do then there’s a chance we can recreate [last season’s run].”
Last year’s Rochdale defeated Torquay United, Rotherham United and Championship side Leeds United before a 2-1 defeat to Sheffield Wednesday ended a memoral FA Cup journey.
The cup run coincided and Ian Henderson’s sublime effort against the comparative giants Leeds United was a highlight of a season which ended in the Dale’s promotion to League One.
Hill reminisced about Rochdale’s performances, saying: “Last season was a magnificent achievement.
“I think the FA Cup run gave us positive energy; the players were looking forward to it and so were the supporters.
“It didn’t get in the way of our priority which was getting promoted.”
Hill’s team have adjusted well to life in League One and entering their first round fixture on the back of three straight league victories.
Their hosts Northampton are currently 15th in League Two, but Hill is not underestimating manager Chris Wilder or his team.
“They’re a good side. They’re one of the favourites for promotion this season and it’s going to be a difficult fixture for us,” he added.
“But what I do understand is that we’ll be favourites for this fixture due to where we are in the league.”
Image courtesy of Official Rochdale AFC, via YouTube, with thanks
Video courtesy of thefacup, via YouTube, with thanks
