Shrewsbury Town insist they will have “no fear” as they attempt to pull off an pre-Christmas cracker at League Two leaders Rochdale tomorrow.

A run of 14 victories from 21 games has seen Keith Hill’s Rochdale side open up a four-point gap at the top.

They have reached the play-offs in each of the last two seasons, and are well placed to push for the promotion which would end their lengthy stay in League Two, which began in 1974.

Shrewsbury, meanwhile, are striving for the consistency to help them mount a challenge from their current 10th place position.

“We are going there to put on a performance that can get us a result which will set us up nicely for the other Christmas games,” said Town boss Paul Simpson.

“I know, when we play to the levels we are capable of, we can compete with anybody in this League.

“What Rochdale have done is consistently do it over the 21 games so far.

“We have got no fears about anybody else but we have to make sure we turn the belief we have in our own players into performances.”

Simpson returns to the club where he began his managerial career, and is hoping leading scorer Dave Hibbert will be fit.

The striker has had a slight setback in his recovery from a hamstring problem and will be assessed.

Midfielder Paul Murray should be available after overcoming back and ankle niggles, while returning pair Craig Disley and Lewis Neal are pushing for a place in the squad.

Simpson, meanwhile, has hailed his side’s approach in recent weeks, but again urged them to become more ruthless in front of goal.

“I’ve been delighted with the attitude of the players of late,” he added.

“I think we had a little bit of a lull and a period where we took our foot off it a little bit and we got punished.

“The last three games, I think we have defended very well and now we need to change over and get that forward play going again.”

• The Away Travel Club are offering free coach travel for under-11s when accompanied by an adult tomorrow. Contact Chris Smith on 01952 604742.

By JAMES GARRISON