Johnson happy over Rochdale game

CLOSE QUARTERS . . . Athletic’s Mike Jones takes on Rochdale’s Rhys Bennett at Spotland.

MANAGER Lee Johnson saluted an all-round team effort in the aftermath of Athletic’s eventual dismantling of derby rivals Rochdale.

From the moment Daniel Johnson’s first goal of two broke the deadlock in the 25th minute the visitors were destined for success.

Almost 4,000 Athletic fans roared their team into the play-off positions courtesy of the latest maximum points haul. Boss Johnson was fulsome in his praise.

“I’m really delighted; I’ve just seen a very, very professional performance,” he said.

“There wasn't much in the game until we scored, but we looked solid throughout and very strong.

“It was a tough game in the end, and maybe a 3-0 scoreline did flatter us a little bit given the state of the play. We limited them to very few chances, though. I don’t really remember Paddy Kenny having a save to make.

“I can’t ask for any more, though. The commitment the lads showed and a clean sheet and three goals in front of our magnificent support makes me a happy manager.”



ROCHDALE boss Keith Hill felt mistakes by his players and referee Dean Whitestone paved the way to Athletic’s victory at Spotland.

Though Rochdale boss Hill had no problems with the resultoutcome, he said Mr Whitestone’s decision not to award Dale a penalty for a foul on Matt Lund, coupled with Jack O’Connell conceding a soft spot-kick, denied his side a chance of taking something from the contest.

“I remain very positive because we are in front of ourselves and if we look back to the start of the season we had four points after five games,” Hill said.