Dale focus on positives for tough test at home

BRIAN Barry-Murphy says his side are looking to put on an exciting performance for supporters when they take on Portsmouth at the Crown Oil Arena.

The Rochdale boss was impressed with his team in midweek after they qualified for the second round of the FA Cup and will look to build on that result as they return to league action.

Dale are currently without a win in their last four league games, but Barry-Murphy is keen to put on a positive performance in front of a home crowd. He said: “Tuesday night’s game was fantastic to get the win, but there were parts of the game where certain points of the tactical set-up hindered the players in their attacking processes. The league games have been fantastic crowds for us, as have our cup games.

“We are very keen to get a performance on board to provide them with excitement and, while respecting the opposition, we are confident we can provide a stern test for Portsmouth that gives us a good chance of winning.”

Dale’s opponents have struggled so far this season and sit 13th in League One but are in good form, having not lost in their last five games in all competitions.

“We are expecting a very tough game. They are one of the biggest teams in the league, managed by a manager (Kenny Jackett) who has won more games than I can imagine!” Barry-Murphy added.

“It is a game we are very excited by. We feel that if we play well, we can provide them with a lot of problems.”