Point keeps momentum going: Joe
JOE Thompson insists confidence remains intact in the Dale dressing room ahead of today’s clash with Bradford City at the Crown Oil Arena.
Thompson started the derby against Oldham on Tuesday and said while victory eluded them, the point should be seen as a positive one.
“We had the lion’s share of possession, especially in the first half. We were unlucky with the penalty and their keeper has made some good saves throughout the 90 minutes,” he said.
“The defenders did really well and Josh Lillis didn’t have a save to make – unfortunately we couldn’t put it in the net at the other end. But Josh having a quiet game, which is complete contrast to Saturday at Peterborough where he did absolutely superb, is all in the right direction.
“It’s a point gained – we would have liked to have got all three, but we’ve not lost and we keep the momentum moving forward.
“The games are coming thick and fast and you have to pick yourself up and go again. The effort on Saturday was massive to a man and I thought everyone was outstanding in a big, brave performance on Tuesday. It’s just unfortunate not to come away with the win.
“The lads are still confident. I think you have to be – it’s not like we’ve been losing games, so there is that air of confidence, but we have obviously got to go and do it.
“We’ve just got to keep driving forward as we go into Saturday, Tuesday and Saturday again, and we’ll see how we get on.
Thompson had sympathy with Joe Rafferty, who was forced to wait to take his spot kick after a pitch invader held up proceedings.
“The longer you’ve got to wait to take your penalty the more it plays on your mind. I’ve seen Joe Raff take many a penalty, he ususually puts them away. But the keeper has guessed the right side and he’s saved it.”