Hill glad to get a move on in replay

THE immaculate surface at the Crown Oil Arena played a key part in Rochdale’s FA Cup first round replay on Tuesday.

Keith Hill’s side were superior throughout on a fast-moving pitch which suited their game.

“We wanted a quick game down at Maidstone but when the scoreline is one nil to the opposition, it becomes a really slow game,” said Hill. “We got the first goal on Tuesday and it became a really quick game. We should have scored more goals and we should have won more comfortably.

“We dodged a bullet in the first game and credit to the opposition, it was a very difficult ask for them. The pitch suited us and I thought we were very good throughout.

“We managed the second half well because we knew one mistake or one opportunity and they could score and get back into the tie. I felt they managed the game well.

“I was really pleased with the display, really pleased to be through to the next round but it is taking its toll. We’ve had a couple of players suffering sickness and diahorrea who have to go into quarantine plus Andy Cannon has done his hamstring. These players are giving absolutely everything, every ounce, and I feel sorry for them.”