ROCHDALE travel to face promotion favourites Bradford City today, and it is a match which should provide an early season benchmark for Keith Hill’s men.

There are great expectations at Valley Parade, with manager Stuart McAll having had a radical shake-up of his squad in the closed season after a bitterly disappointing campaign.

One of those signed was Mansfield's prolific striker Michael Boulding who bagged 25 goals for the Stags last season, but it is veteran striker Peter Thorpe who has played a big hand in City winning their first two games.

He claimed a goal in the 2-1 win over Notts County and a brace against Macclesfield Town.

Three points for Dale would see them leapfrog the joint League Two leaders, and Hill won’t expect anything less.

He said: "It’s early doors, and as the season progresses we will probably know more about ourselves and the opposition.

"I know Bradford have had a good start, but we have had a good start. They are a good side, but we are a good side, and we go there full of confidence and I don’t see why we shouldn’t.

"We approach every game with a winning mentality, and why should it be any different because it’s Bradford and they are one of the favourites to get automatic promotion.

"Every game is a challenge, and over two 90 minute games in a season I think we have got parity with Bradford, in respect of our playing squad.

"But we are probably poles apart in terms of fan base, training facilities, and resources. On a Saturday or a Tuesday night when we play them over 90 minutes I think we are equal. And it’s a good opportunity for players to show that."

Dale Reserves started their campaign at Carlisle United on Monday with a 4-1 defeat. Joe Thompson was on the scoresheet for the visitors.

While Hill was unhappy with the result he was pleased the players had a run out.

He told the club’s website: "Lee Thorpe needed a game, James Spencer needed a game, Marcus Holness needed a game. It is a necessity they get 90 minutes under their belts on a regular basis, especially as they have been sidelined by injury for months.

"We had a few problems on the day as Mark Jones couldn’t play because of an infection in his foot, so he is possibly going to be pushed back another week or so.

"For 55 or 60 minutes it was a very even contest until tiredness took over, especially among the lads who haven’t been playing on a regular basis.

"I wouldn't say we capitulated, but Carlisle became worthy winners."