Jim looks beyond pain of play-offs

JIM McNulty looked beyond the disappointment of defeat in the National League play-off eliminator to hail the return of fight and hope at Rochdale Football Club.

- RICHARD PARTINGTON

Dale were beaten 4-3 in extra time by a Southend side who came from 3-1 down to secure their place in the play-off semi-final against Forest Green.

It was an agonising loss for McNulty and his men, but the Dale boss was able to focus on the importance of bringing hope back to the supporters after years in the doldrums with the club's existence under threat.

"I'm gutted to have exited the play-offs and bring our season to an end," said McNulty.

"The nature of it, of course, was a hard one to take. All the way into the depths of extra time, with guys out on the feet - it's a cruel one.

"I think from a neutral perspective it must have been a fantastic game to spectate - obviously none of us are neutral, we've got a love for our team and our club like Southend fans and people affiliated with Southend would have had.

"I thought it was an amazing advert for National League football, it was end to end, so entertaining with brilliant chances at either end.