Rochdale manager Keith Hill says he needs the fans’ backing now more than ever after Tuesday’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Northampton Town.
The win sent Dale top of League Two but they struggled at times, having to twice come from behind against the struggling Cobblers.
As the home side toiled a minority of fans became restless and this is something Hill wants to dispel quickly.
“I can’t comprehend one or two narrow-minded fans shouting at me to get my players off the pitch because they’re rubbish,” Hill told The Dale Player.
“We’ve got to be very careful, confidence is precious. The fans are magnificent but when we’re not quite confident and when we’re not quite on it the players need the support of the fans so much more.”
Dale were far from their best and needed an injury-time winner from George Donnelly to claim the victory, which took them two points clear at the summit of the league.
Hill, who described his side as playing at 70% of their potential, believes the supporters have no cause for complaint so far this season.
“The supporters should be so proud of the football club and the players that are on display and they should be so forgiving when the players are not hot because they’ve been hot for so long this season,” he said.
“I don’t want to have a wrestle with anyone at this football club. It won’t affect me (but) it’ll affect the players but I just hope they can stay with us when we’re not as hot as we were on Saturday (against Cheltenham) or against Newport (County).”
Michael Rose scored a delightful 88th minute free-kick sparking Dale’s late revival and Hill could not hide his admiration for the full-back.
“I could quite easily go for a drink with him (and) socially be one of (his) friends,” said the manager.
“I don’t know whether he’d be of the same opinion but he’s my type of company (and) he’s also a very good footballer.”
Although the manager singled out Rose, he was quick to praise his whole team’s character.
“The lads are a joy to work with, they could have given up.
“I wanted to go home at half-time (when Dale trailed 2-1) and I suggested that the players go home, but they went out and fought for the opportunity to win another game and that’s where they are magnificent.”
Image courtesy of Texacoukfc via YouTube, with thanks.
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