Brentford vs Rochdale - Match Preview

Photo: Jon Coluccio

Will Buckley could come back into the Dale starting 11 tomorrow.

Winger Will Buckley could return to the Rochdale starting line up for their visit to Brentford tomorrow (Saturday 31 October, 3pm kick off).

The youngster has been used as an impact substitute in Dale's last two games but after scoring in the win over Aldershot and assisting both of Lee Thorpe's goals in the win over Notts County in midweek, Keith Hill may feel that the 18-year old is ready start once more.

Immediately after Dale went behind at Meadow Lane, Buckley was introduced in place of Joe Thompson, who has impressed of late but was largely ineffective in the midweek game. Buckley could replace Thompson tomorrow but Hill may be tempted to reserve Buckley as the ace up his sleeve and bring him on with half an hour to go to run at a tiring defence.

Apart from the choice over which wingers to field, Dale are likely to remain unchanged from the side that overcame Notts. Nathan Stanton overcame a head injury to start the game and put in another fine performance so he will undoubtedly line up alongside Rory McArdle again tomorrow. Other than that the Dale side almost picks itself as the team go to London on the back of three straight wins.

Dale face a strong Brentford side, who find themselves fourth in the league despite a hiccup at Chester in midweek. Dale would overtake their opponents with a win and even propel themselves into the top three with a win, if other results go for them.

Assistant boss Dave Flitcroft is expecting a tough game, commenting that Brentford have not turned into a bad team over night after their loss at the Deva Stadium.

Flitcroft said: "They have had an excellent and since Andy Scott took over they have been steadily progressing and he has really built something quite strong there. We are expecting a really hard game."

If Dale are to extend their winning streak to four consecutive matches they will have to end Brentford's unbeaten home record. The Bees have won four of their seven home games and a win against Dale could even see them top the table by 5.45 on Saturday evening.

Entrance to Griffin Park for away fans is £18 on the terrace or £19 for seating. Juniors are £5 in either stand, while Senior Citizens entry is £12 and £13 respectively. Students are also £12 and £13 respectively but must buy a ticket in advance and must have a valid NUS card.