Keith Hill: Rochdale players deserve chance to play on Wembley’s hallowed turf

Keith Hill reckons his Rochdale players getting the chance to play at Wembley outweighs the financial reward of their FA Cup replay with Tottenham.

The League One side, the lowest-ranked team left in the competition, produced a superb display to draw 2-2 with Spurs at the Crown Oil Arena on Sunday after Steve Davies’ stoppage-time goal.

That earned a second bite of the cherry for Dale at the national stadium, which will provide a hefty boost to the club’s coffers.

But, having matched Spurs for much of the fifth-round tie on Sunday, boss Hill says it is more about the deserved reward for his players.

He told BBC Radio 5 live: “If they show us live on TV again that would be where the money is for us, with respect to the share of the gate receipts I don’t think it would be that big for us.

“I think it’s more about from a player’s perspective of going to Wembley and playing on the hallowed turf, the home of football.

“The players deserve their opportunity, the day out at Wembley to play against what is a fine Tottenham side.

“I was really really proud of the way the players played. It was a great display on behalf of the supporters and the football club. I couldn’t have asked for anything more really, they deserved it.”

Hill’s son Sydney was mascot on Sunday and the Rochdale manager is prepared to let his son miss a day at school to let him do it again at Wembley.

“Surprisingly, when I was in the pub last night I saw one of his teachers and she assured me he could have the day off,” he added.

“I certainly hope (there will be no fine) but he can put a sickie in.”