HILL PAYS THE PRICE AS DALE LOOK TO FUTURE
Club take action to save third tier status
HE’S been the most successful manager in Rochdale’s history, but that didn’t spare Keith Hill the axe.
The 49-year-old’s second spell in charge came to an end last Monday as the Dale board decided they had to act to try to preserve the club’s third tier status.
Some may have felt Hill was untouchable after leading Rochdale to two of the three promotions in their history. He led the north-west outfit out of the EFL basement in his first spell in charge in 2009-10 and then repeated the feat in his second stint at the helm in 2013-14.
However, his six-year reign came to an end with Rochdale in the League One relegation zone and five points from safety heading into yesterday’s home game against Shrewsbury.
Assistant manager Chris Beech was also dismissed.
In a statement, the club said: “It has been the most difficult decision that the board has had to make but it is felt that, due to results on the pitch, a new direction is needed.
“We believe the next five games against opposition in and around us represents a great opportunity to try and retain our League One status, which is why this action has been taken now.”
First team coach Brian Barry-Murphy took charge against Shrewsbury, with academy manager Tony Ellis assisting him.
Difficult
The 40-year-old Irishman, a former Dale player, admitted it had been a difficult time at the Crown Oil Arena.
“The start of the week was very difficult for everyone concerned with the football club,” said Barry-Murphy, ahead of yesterday’s game. “It came as quite a shock for me.
“It was quite a difficult time with my friends leaving the club and I had to speak to them and see what they thought. I had to examine my conscience and once I knew they were keen for me to carry on, I felt okay. I have been part of the club for a long time and I feel very honoured to take charge – it’s extremely humbling.”
Barry-Murphy could be a contender to land the post on a permanent basis, though Barrow boss Ian Evatt is the bookies’ favourite. However, the 37-year-old has insisted he isn’t aware of any interest from Dale in him.