ROCHDALE boss Keith Hill believes survival is still in their hands.

Dale missed the chance of clambering out of the League One drop-zone with their goalless draw in midweek against Oldham, who remain one point above them out of the bottom four.

Joe Rafferty had a penalty saved but long-time manager Hill has dismissed any suggestions that they blew their opportunity ahead of tomorrow’s visit from the Bantams.

Hill said: “I thought it was a courageous performance because of the ramifications if we had lost the game.

“I was really pleased with the desire, the determination, the commitment and the energy.

“In fact I’m happy because most leaders in a flying formation tuck in just behind the lead bird – and that’s where we are.

“It’s very difficult for the players to play Saturday, Tuesday, Saturday, Tuesday because of the stress levels more than physically. Mental stress puts you under physical strain.”

Like City now, Rochdale have been ploughing through a logjam of fixtures after racking up games in hand through their FA Cup exploits.

Despite playing catch-up on their relegation rivals, Hill’s side have lost only two of their last 12 in the league - a run that has included wins over promotion chasers Rotherham and Shrewsbury - to give themselves a real chance going into the final four games.

But the Dale boss says opposite number Simon Grayson will know all about their good form because he has been spotted regularly in the crowd at Spotland.

Hill added: “I think Simon has a season-ticket here, he’s been here that much recently!

“I like Simon. I think he’s done a marvellous job wherever he’s been and it looks like he’s turning the tide there now.

“I’m looking forward to it. Hopefully our players will turn up with a similar sort of performance.”

Ian Henderson is still suspended after Rochdale’s appeal against his red card failed.