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So far, so good for Rochdale boss

27/ 7/2001

The team played out a 1-1 draw at Stenhousemuir on Wednesday, and Parkin was able to give all his players a run out.

He said: "We didn't play too well in the first half. Stenhousemuir gave us a good workout but we never really got hold of the ball enough in the first 45 minutes.

"To be fair we had the young lads up front, Kevin Townson and Gary Birch, and we struggled to establish ourselves."

Parkin was pleased that the changes made at half time had the desired effect, but he was disappointed not to have won the game.

He added: "The second half saw us play better and come into the game more.

"We've had back to back games over the last two days, and it's been ideal for us. It's been a good test, and luckily we've come through with no injuries. All the players had at least 45 minutes tonight and it did us good.

"It's now a case of getting stuck into training tomorrow and looking forward to East Fife on Saturday."

Parkin also took the opportunity to have a look at Alex Russell, and a young striker from Walsall, Gary Birch.

He said: "Gary looked a very good player during the game at Walsall, but to be fair he looked yards off the pace tonight.

"As for Alex Russell, he needs to show more commitment if he wants to earn a contract here.

" I understand he's had an injury, and that he's behind with the training, but he needs to be a little more dedicated if he wants to stay with us. He will need to improve for this to happen."