Scunthorpe United vs Rochdale - Match Preview

Photo: Jon Coluccio

Nathan Stanton is set to face his former club tomorrow night.

Rochdale take their four game winning league run into two cup games this week, starting with tomorrow night's Johnstone's Paint Trophy Northern Quarter Final at Scunthorpe (Tuesday 4 November, kick off 7.30pm).

Dale boss Keith Hill has not offered any hints as to what his starting line-up may be. In the last round of the competition Hill made a few changes to his team as a backlash following an abject home display against Dagenham & Redbridge in the league.

Dale have not been beaten since they overcame Carlisle on penalties and that game saw Lee Thorpe, Joe Thompson and Chris Dagnall re-find their form and they have become regular features in the first team ever since.

Hill could again use the game to show his regular starters that they can not afford to be complacent in their current positions. To that end, Marcus Holness, Clark Keltie, Joe Thompson and Adam Le Fondre, who were all on the bench for Saturday's win over Brentford, could be given their chance to show that they are ready to step into the first team.

The manager believes his side can progress to the next round despite Scunthorpe's lofty position at the top of League One.

"We have had them watched and know what they are capable of doing but there is a belief among all the players that we can go and win football matches," Hill said.

Scunthorpe have reduced their admission prices for the game. Adults can pay on the gate for £10, with concessionary tickets priced at just £5. Under 16s go free.

Dale have not faced the Iron at Glanford Park since the opening day of the 2003/04 season, when the home side recovered from a 1-0 half time deficit to run out convincing 3-1 winners.