Abstract: Based on the engineering background of gob-side entry retaining in 90101 return-air crossheading of Xinchao Coal Mine, the problem of the surrounding rock stability of gob-side entry retaining in the conditions of thick coal seam and hard roof had been studied. The principle and technology to control the surrounding rock had been put forward. The support system inside the roadway combined the basic support which has high pre-stress and can adapt for the large deformation of surrounding rock in god-side entry retaining, and the reinforced support system which has high support resistance and can control the severe deformation of the floor in god-side entry retaining. The support system outside the roadway composed of roadside backfill wall which has characteristics of high strength, rapid increased resistance and fine contractibility, well roof maintenance and temporary support in the filling zone and pressure relief measurements through caving the hard roof by force.