MACCLESFIELD manager Keith Alexander is bracing himself for one the season's toughest games ahead of the trip to table-topping Rochdale.

"I understand Keith Hill's lads are doing very well and we won't have many tougher games," he admitted.

Alexander has central defender Paul Morgan and striker Ricky Sappleton looking to start after illness and injury but Lee Bell, who was forced off with injury against Grimsby, and Matty Tipton, who has a calf problem, are doubts.

Dale, meanwhile, are without skipper Gary Jones, goalkeeper Kenny Arthur and wingers Will Buckley and Joe Thompson.

Rochdale league form: WLWWW

Macclesfield league form: DDDLD

Key opponent: Chris Dagnall - quality striker has three in his last two games

Prediction: Rochdale 2 Macclesfield 1 - Dale should be too strong

Agree with the prediction? Have your say.

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