DAVID Hodgson insists morale remains high in the Darlington camp, despite the recent poor run of form.

Hopes of securing a play-off berth have been thrown into serious jeopardy following a slump which has seen Quakers fail to win any of their last five games.

That sequence has seen Hodgson's men slip from sixth to tenth in League Two, six points adrift of the play-off zone.

While many fans have seemingly thrown in the towel on any hopes of a top seven finish, Hodgson remains upbeat with 11 games to go.

"We can't let this little run affect us, otherwise we might as well give up now," said Hodgson.

"I know, with the players I have, we will not let that happen and everyone is focused on putting things right.

"We're only six points short and there are 11 games to go.

"There is still plenty of time, but we can't afford to lose any more ground."

The revival starts at Rochdale tomorrow, according to Hodgson.

The Quakers boss ran the rule over the opponents in midweek as Dale were held to a 1-1 draw by Lancashire rivals Bury.

"Rochdale aren't a bad side, but they only grabbed a draw through a penalty," said Hodgson.

"They haven't had the best of runs and I'm sure they'll be desperate to beat us."

Rochdale have failed to win at home in their last five attempts, but Hodgson's primary concern is the Spotland pitch, which survived a late inspection on Tuesday night after heavy frost.

"We've got Rochdale and Bury coming up so this was a good chance to see them both," said Hodgson.

"But, I'd heard a bit about the pitch and needed to see it for myself.

"It looked like Redcar beach and I couldn't believe it was allowed to go ahead.

"If there's anymore bad weather before Saturday I will be very surprised if our game goes ahead."

Temperatures are forecast to drop below freezing tonight, although no decision on an inspection will be made until tomorrow morning.

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