Keith Hill claims he is delighted to see his Rochdale players repaying their supporters’ faith ahead of their clash with Southend United at Spotland tonight.
The Dale have climbed away from relegation trouble after back-to-back away wins against playoff hopefuls Exeter City and Fleetwood Town.
After a difficult start, Hill – who succeeded John Coleman in January – has turned Rochdale’s fortunes around and he is pleased with his players’ progress.
“I think after Saturday’s game there was a mutual appreciation from the supporters for the performance because the players have given the fans something to be cheery about,” he said.
“It’s a great feeling when you’re a player and you’re going over to your own supporters and there’s a mutual respect for what has been achieved.
“We looked like the promotion contenders [on Saturday]. It was a collective performance and it is great when you’re going home reflecting on performances.
“There’s not one player that you could say dropped below the 8.5 mark with respect to their own standings, so I am really pleased with the progress we’re making.”
Hill now has his sights set on a strong finish and is hoping to place as high up the table as possible to bring the positive momentum into next season.
“I’m optimistic about Wednesday because the players are mentally good,” he said.
“They see the next four games as a real challenge to get as many points as we possibly can and we’re looking up. We’re looking at the teams above us and seeing if we can catch them.
“The work-rate, the energy and the sacrificial behaviour of supporting your own team mates are important to me.
“If they carry those values out I’ll support them through thick and thin, through good and bad decisions and through good and bad results.”
Midfielder Ritchie Jones remains a doubt for the Dale after missing all of last month with an ankle problem.
Other long-term injury victims Andrew Tutte, Rhys Bennett (both knee) and Reece Gray (broken leg) will also miss the game.
Image courtesy of Texaco, via YouTube, with thanks.
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