Rochdale boss Keith Hill says his Rochdale players must stick to their philosophy when they entertain Port Vale at Spotland on Saturday.
Dale’s 2-0 win at Doncaster last Saturday was soon followed by Tuesday night’s 2-0 defeat at Gillingham to leave them 14th in League One.
Hill believes his side must stick to their principles and achieve greater consistency in order to steer clear of the relegation scrap.
“I’m going to stick with the plan,” he said.
“I’m going to stick with the players to try and get as many points as we can over the next four games to see where we’re at after 23 games. We’re not too far away from where we should be.
“We have to stick to our philosophy, when you’re not winning the players question themselves and a sprinkling of confidence can come with a solid performance.
“Players are human, they over think and don’t like criticism. They react to different things when they’re not winning but I want a consistency in performance.
“We responded well at Doncaster and the performance was very professional. It’s not about tactics; it’s about individuals doing the basics.”
Looking ahead to tomorrow’s game, Hill was full of praise for his counterpart Rob Page.
“Rob’s done a fabulous job,” he added.
“They’re a good side playing well and are full of confidence. I think there’s stability at the club, he’s getting the pattern of play he wants at the football club.
“I’m really pleased for him and I hope it continues for him, but we always tend to do well and play well against Port Vale.”
The visitors come into the game in the best form having won their last four league games but haven’t won at Spotland since 2001.
Hill also confirmed that Rochdale will be without midfield pair Matty Lund and Jamie Allen for the next few weeks, while attacking midfielder John O’Sullivan could make his debut on loan from Blackburn.
Image courtesy of Official Rochdale via YouTube, with thanks.
