Dale out to bounce back on derby day
ROCHDALE will look to nullify the new manager ‘bounce’ of neighbours Oldham and recover from their own painful FA Cup disappointment today.
Former Tranmere boss Micky Mellon took the reins at Boundary Park following the sacking of David Unsworth in September.
Interim boss Steve Thompson and assistant Neil Redfearn left the club last week and Paul Murray took charge of last Saturday’s 1-0 win at Altrincham in the FA Cup, former Dale defender Harrison Mcgahey the matchwinner.
Today’s derby sees Mellon take charge of his first game for Latics, going head to head against a Dale side knocked out of the FA Cup at Hereford last weekend and desperate to put that disappointment behind them with a positive result in the National League.
“It’s a stage you have to go through in football, the disappointment, it’s almost grief-like,” said Mcnulty.
“It’s important I feel this, go through it and recognise it, important I see the players as down as they were – they were really low.
“But then it’s as important to bounce back as quickly as possible for what is a massive game for us on Saturday. It’s the first time this particular derby has been played outside the Football League, so it’s a huge occasion.
“I expect Oldham to be massively lifted after the appointment of Micky Mellon. He’s gone in there and there will be the managerial bounce, you’d expect, so it makes for a real big occasion, a big game.
“But as always, it’s a game I truly believe we can win.”
Both clubs are keen to avoid a repeat of the trouble which marred the fixture in November 2014 when Oldham supporters bought tickets in the home end and a number of arrests were made.
A joint message issued by Rochdale AFC and Oldham Athletic read: “Working together with Greater Manchester Police, both Clubs have identified where visiting supporters have purchased tickets in the home sections of the Crown Oil Arena ahead of Saturday’s fixture.
“These tickets have now been cancelled in accordance with the terms of sale. As such, the tickets are now void and will not permit access at the turnstiles, nor will a refund be issued. Those with cancelled tickets have been notified by email and should not attempt to gain access to the stadium.
“Any supporter who is found on Saturday to have gained entry to the incorrect part of the stadium will be ejected, not relocated.
“Supporters are also reminded that the use pyrotechnics and encroachment onto the playing surface are criminal offences at any football match.
“Both Clubs want a safe and enjoyable experience for all supporters on Saturday.”