January 31, 2008
Butler rejoins Rovers
Halifax Town's goalkeeping coach, Lee Butler, has left the club to take up a similar position at Doncaster Rovers, it was confirmed yesterday. Butler replaces Barry Richardson, who moved to Nottingham Forest a couple of weeks ago.
Butler played eight games for Doncaster Rovers during the 2001/02 season when he joined on non-contract terms to cover for Andy Warrington and Barry Richardson. At the end of that season, Butler rejected the chacne to stay at Belle Vue as a goalkeeping coach, when he was offered the post of assistant manager at Halifax Town.
On leaving the Shay, Butler said: "I have really enjoyed my time at the Shay and will always look out for the results. I've made a lot of friends here but the time was right for the move and I wish everybody at the club well for the future."
January 31, 2008
Jones moves to Leek
Former Doncaster Rovers youth team striker Ben Jones has moved to UniBond Premier League club Leek Town as they look to bolster their squad. Paul Ogden, caretaker assistant manager at Leek, said: "We are a bit short on numbers, but Ben Jones will make a massive difference to us in terms of experience and give us that extra cutting edge."
January 31, 2008
Foy extends Rovers deal
Keith Foy, the ex-Rovers left back, will stay at Irish club Sligo Rovers for a further twelve months after signing a new contract that will keep him at the club until the end of the 2008 season. Foy joined Doncaster Rovers from Nottingham Forest, playing just one game in the 2002/03 season before being released by the club at the end of the season.
January 29, 2008
Rovers 2 Hartlepool United 0
Doncaster Rovers reached the heady heights of second place in League One this evening following this convincing win over Hartlepool United. Other results went favourably for Rovers, with Carlisle and Leeds going down to defeat, and Nottingham Forest and Swansea City sharing a goalless draw. But for several dramatic goal-line clearances by the visitors in the closing ten minutes, Rovers would have scored an even more emphatic victory. As it was they had to settle for two goals - by Richie Wellens and Adam Lockwood - but the three points went to Rovers!
January 30, 2008
Goals review
It's a fairly short review today, but we begin in League Two, where the prolific former Rovers loan striker Jack Lester scored for Chesterfield in their 2-2 draw at Stockport County, which keeps the Spireites in the play-off places in sixth place.
In the Blue Square North, Chris Beardsley scored for Kettering Town - however, his side went down to a rare defeat, 3-1 at the hands of Gainsborough Trinity. Kettering still remain eight points clear of AFC Telford and Southport in the league table.
January 30, 2008
Beardsley joins Poppies
Former Doncaster Rovers striker Chris Beardsley has joined Blue Square North leaders Kettering Town on a free transfer from York City. Beardsley has been on loan at Kettering for the past month as he regained match fitness following a broken jaw which was sustained in York's Blue Square Premier game at Crawley Town. That loan spell was highly successful and whilst it was expected that Chris would return to KitKat Crescent to fight for a first team place, it was not certain that he would get a run in the team, so he elected to join Kettering in a full transfer.
Whilst no fee was involved in the transfer, York have had a sell-on clause put into the transfer agreement. Beardsley has signed an eighteen-month deal at Kettering.
Beardsley said: "When you leave and you haven't played many games you see it as a bit of a failure, but the lads are doing fantastic and the manager has come in and been great. Colin Walker has been brilliant with me. He was honest and fair and the whole set-up there is brilliant - I can't say a bad word about it. They looked after me when I had a broken jaw and I can only say thanks to them and wish them all the best because I think they will be in the Football League before too long."
January 30, 2008
Millwall fans in court
Fourteen Millwall supporters appeared at Doncaster Magistrates Court last Thursday following incidents which occurred at the Keepmoat Stadium on the opening day of the season. All had been charge with affray, with 13 men and one woman being identified from CCTV recordings taken by the stadium.
Six people received 80 hours community service each, were ordered to pay £50 in costs - and they each received a three-year football banning order. They are prevented from attending any football match during that time, and must surrender their passport for the time of all England away games.
Four were bailed for pre-sentence reports and will report to local courts in South London on 14th February.
Three men and one woman pleaded not guilty and their trial has been scheduled at Doncaster Magistrates Courty for 1st April.
PC Andy Baker said, “We have worked closely with our colleagues in the Metropolitan Police to bring to justice the people who caused disorder at the Millwall football match on the 11 August at the Keepmoat Stadium. Doncaster Police will not tolerate this type of behaviour and treat such incidents seriously.”
January 29, 2008
Rovers v Hartlepool
Doncaster Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll will be hoping that defender Adam Lockwood will be passed fit for this evening's game against Hartlepool. Lockwood was replaced by Matt Mills at half time of Friday's match with a back injury, something that has apparently been troubling him for some time. The need for Lockwood to be fit is made more important following Steve Roberts' sending off during the second half on Friday, meaning he will be suspended for this evening's game. Matt Mills will deputise for Roberts, but a defensive shuffle will be needed should Lockwood not be fit - unless O'Driscoll takes the gamble on bringing skipper Graeme Lee back ahead of schedule. Lee has been in full training after a knee operation, but was understood to need a couple of practice matches before being considered for the first team.
Brian Stock is suspended for this match after receiving his fifth booking of the season at Leeds United.
Paul Heffernan is fully fit and available for selection - the only other player unavailable due to injury is Gordon Greer, who is out for three months.
Hartlepool United will be missing defender Ben Clark, who continues to struggle with a knee injury, and midfielder Andy Monkhouse is unlikely to play, although he has resumed training after recovering from a knee injury. Apart from that, Hartlepool appear to have a full squad to select from.
January 29, 2008
Man of the match result
Rovers midfielder Paul Green won your "Man of the Match" voting for his performance in Friday night's match against Swansea City. With seven players receiving nominations, the players receiving most votes were:
1 Paul Green (52.83%)
2 Richie Wellens (16.98%)
3 James O'Connor (13.21%)
Thank you to everyone who took part. The next vote will open after this evening's home game against Hartlepool United.
January 29, 2008
Youth team 2 Hull City 0
Doncaster Rovers' youth team resumed their Youth Alliance fixtures on Saturday with a good win over Hull City, thanks to two goals from the prolific Waide Fairhurst. His first goal came in the 34th minute from the penalty spot after Fairhurst had been brought down in the penalty area, the second coming in the 89th minute when he got a touch to capitalise on a mistake in the Hull defence.
Rovers: Kean, Hawksworth, Bowland, Griffiths, Boyce, Duffy, Hall, Shielis, Fairhurst, Lodge, Fletcher
Substitutes: Fletcher (for Henderson, 65), Lodge (for L.Nelthorpe, 75), Shielis (for Fisher, 85), Biggs, Conkleton
January 29, 2008
Leeds tickets
Tickets for the home game against Leeds United have now gone on general sale at the Keepmoat Stadium ticket office. However, Rovers, after agreement with South Yorkshire Police, have announced that anyone buying tickets will have to produce an original, current utiity bill, so that the tickets cam be registered to the name of the utility bill holder. This move is designed to avoid tickets for home areas of the stadium falling into the hands of Leeds supporters. Tickets will be sold at the rate of two per person.
Please note that after 5pm this afternoon, ticket will only be on sale for this evening's match against Hartlepool.
January 28, 2008
Greer out after op
Rovers defender Gordon Greer faces up to three months on the sidelines after having to have a hip operation. The 27-year old has been out of the team since last month's goalless draw against Brighton, wiht the hip injury being discovered whilst having a scan for a groin injury.
Greer joined Rovers in July 2007 from Kilmarnock on a two-year contract after impressing during a spell on trial.
January 28, 2008
Wheater to get new Boro deal
David Wheater, who played for Rovers whilst on loan from Middlesbrough a couple of seasons ago, is set to have his fine form of this season rewarded with the offer of a new contract. The 20-year old defender has been a key member of the Middlesbrough defence as they battle against relegation from the Premiership, with boss Gareth Southgate keen to keep the youngster at the Riverside after his current contract expires in the summer.
Southgate said: "David's having a terrific season. The maturity he's shown and the way he's standing up to the challenge of playing against top international players will stand him in good stead. He's at a lovely phase in his career where he just goes out and plays and isn't worried about anything else. It's great to watch. I'm confident he will be signing a new contract and pretty soon too. He's a Teesside boy and loves playing for the club. We give young players a chance more than other clubs do."
January 28, 2008
Stock out tomorrow
Rovers midfielder Brian Stock will be missing for tomorrow's home game against Hartlepool United as he serves a one match ban for reaching five bookings for the season. He missed Friday's home defeat owing to illness, but will be fit to play in Saturday's away game at Millwall.
January 26, 2008
Rovers 0 Swansea 4
Rovers were comprehensively beaten by Swansea City last night, with the visitors in awesome form which will surely take them to the League One championship. With their lead at the top of the table now standing at eleven points, they look likely to have promotion sealed well before the end of the season. Rovers, even though they have been on an outstanding run of late, were never in the hunt - Swansea's control and pace meant that they dominated long periods of the game, particularly causing problems down the wings, with both Rovers full backs having a torrid time. The Rovers' cause was not helped when Steve Roberts was sent off in the 58th minute for a foul when being the last defender, but by then they were 2-0 down and unlikely to get anything out of the game.
Sean O'Driscoll may have a problem with central defenders for Tuesday's match, with Adam Lockwood having been substituted at half time due to an injury picked up early in the first half. That is in addition to the sending off of Roberts, which will mean he has an upcoming suspension to serve. Whilst Matt Mills will come in to take one place, we presume that Graeme Lee is still a way off a first team return, which will mean that Rovers will have to shuffle the defensive line-up
January 27, 2008
Goals review
Most of the goals scored by former Doncaster Rovers players this weekend were in non-league football, but we'll start in League Two, where Neil Roberts scored for the second weekend in a row when opening the scoring for Wrexham in their 1-1 home draw against Bradford City. Despite picking up a point, Wrexham are still bottom of League Two, although now only on goal difference from Mansfield Town, who were involved in FA Cup action against Middlesbrough yesterday.
In Scotland, Richard Offiong scored twice in the Scottish First Division for Hamilton in their 3-2 away win at Clyde, which moves the former Rovers striker two clear at the top of the Division One goalscorers list, with 13 to his name.
The review in non-league football begins in the Blue Square Premier, where winger Craig Nelthorpe, on loan at Halifax from Rovers, opened the scoring in their game at Northwich in the 4th minute. The game ended 2-2.
In the UniBodn Premier Division, Rod Thornley scored Witton Albion's second goal in their 2-2 draw at Hednesford Town, Andy Hayward scored for Ossett Town in their 1-1 draw at Kendal Town, and Robert Pell scored for Frickley Athletic in their 3-2 away win at Marine.
January 27, 2008
Ryan stil in Penney's plans
Ex-Rovers defender Tim Ryan remains a big part of Dave Penney's plans at Darlington, despite the fact that he has only made 13 appearances this season. Ryan was one of Penney's first signings when he arrived at the club 15 months ago, but Penney confirmed "He is a week back into a one month rehabilitation programme after an operation. He has missed a lot of games, so may not be fit to start for a while, but he remains an important member of the squad.When he is fit he will push very hard for a place, but in the meantime we need bodies, so that we can keep the team fresh.”
Ryan's last game was in early November, after which he had surgery on a troublesome achilles tendon, but he had to have further surgery to cure the ongoing problem, and he should be able to return to the first team in around a month's time.
“He is a brave player, who doesn’t miss games for slight injuries,” said Penney. “He will only miss out when it is impossible to play, and has the character to fight back.”
January 26, 2008
Akinfenwa targets return
Former Rovers striker Adebayo Akinfenwa has signed a contract with Northampton Town which runs until the end of the season, but after nine months on the sidelines, he admits that he has a long way to go to return to peak condition.
He said: "It's been a stop-start season for me so far and my immediate aim is just to build up my match fitness as quickly as possible. I was out for a long time with a horrendous injury but that's behind me now and I just want to get my full match fitness back so I can be fit enough to start games for Northampton and help the team climb the table. I was out for about a year with a broken leg but that's all healed now and I just want to start playing again."
January 26, 2008
Sandwith back to claim place
Ex-Rovers defender Kevin Sandwith has been challenged to retain his first team spot at Chester City and earn a new contract with the Blues in the summer. The 29-year old had been told he could move on by boss Bobby Williamson, but was handed a recall for last weekend's game against Notts County - with Williamson saying what happens in the future is down to the player.
Williamson said: "I spoke to him before the window opened. We had a discussion and felt it would be best if he was on the list so he could maybe get first-team football elsewhere, but the guy's a good pro. He's worked hard and has deserved a place in the team and he got it. Hopefully he can go on and earn himself a contract."
Sandwith joined Chester in the summer of 2006, following spells with Macclesfield Town, Lincoln City, Halifax Town, Doncaster Rovers, Telford United and Carlisle United.
January 25, 2008
Rovers v Swansea
Doncaster Rovers may have to make a late check on midfielder Brian Stock before naming their side for this evening's crucial home game against Swansea City. Stock has been suffering from a virus all week, and Rovers are due to check whether he has recovered during a light training session this morning. Richie Wellens and Jason Price have receovered from knocks picked up in the Leeds match last weekend and will be available for selection. Defenders Gordon Greer and Graeme Lee will be unavailable, but apart from them, the whole squad is fit and available. Lee is back in training, but Gordon Greer had a hip operation last week and is likely to be out for around three months.
Swansea are likely to make one change to their side, with midfielder Darren Pratley struggling to be fit with a hamstring injury. Striker Jason Scotland is likely to have to settle for a place on the bench again, along with Manchester United loanee Febian Brandy.
January 8, 2008
McCammon set for World Cup call-up
Doncaster Rovers striker Mark McCammon, who is in a great run of form at the moment, may be missing for the away game at Millwall and the home game against Bristol Rovers, with Barbados having a World Cup first round qualifying match against Dominica on 6th February. Barbados have confirmed that they have contacted a number of overseas professional players, with McCammon and former Rovers striker Jonathan Forte, now at Scunthorpe, being on the list. The success of the Barbados World Cup bid is recognised as being dependent on the availability of the foreign-based players, which are listed as being Marolon Harewood (Aston Villa), Emerson Boyce (Wigan Athletic), Louie Soares (Aldershot Town) and Tom Soares (Crystal Palace). Paul Ifill ( Crystal Palace), Mark McCammon (Doncaster Rovers) and Neil Harvey (Retford United), represented Barbados in last year's Caribbean Cup finals, and are expected to be in the squad.
Whilst Barbados should win their game against Dominica in their matches on 6th February (away) and 26th March (home), they also have to come up against the might of the USA if they are to make it through to the World Cup finals.
January 25, 2008
Dene on target
Former Doncaster Rovers striker Dene Shields scored one of Ross County's goals on the way to a 4-2 victory at Cove Rangers in the fourth round of the Scottish Cup His goal in the 10th minute set the Dingwall based club on teh way to victory, with all of their four goals coming in the first half.
January 25, 2008
Belles in trip to Cardiff
Doncaster Rovers Belles have been drawn away in the fifth round of the Women's FA Cup and will play Cardiff City Ladie in the Vale of Glamorgan this Sunday, with the match kicking off at 1pm. Cardiff City Ladies have led a nomadic existence this season whilst their base at the Cardiff Athletic Stadium is being rebuilt. They have been playing their home games at Cwmbran Stadium this season, but that ground is unavailble this weekend, forcing the team to play their next two home games at Jenner Park in Barry.
January 24, 2008
Buckley looking to extend Sam's loan
Grimsby Town manager Alan Buckley is understood to want to keep Rovers defender Sam Hird on loan until the end of the season. The news comes just a couple of days after Rovers had agreed to extend Hird's loan for a third month which keeps him at Grismby until 16th February.
Buckley said: "I have left a message with Richard O'Kelly, to ask if they would agree to let Sam stay for the rest of the season. I am still waiting for Richard to get back to me, so we are in Doncaster's hands."
January 24, 2008
Ryan after 10,000 gate on Friday
Rovers chairman John Ryan is hoping for a gate of over 10,000 for the visit of League One leaders Swansea City on Friday evening. The hope comes following last Saturday's superb performance at Leeds United, which moves Rovers up to fourth in the table, just a point behind second placed Nottingham Forest, who could only draw with relegation-threatened Millwall last night.
Ryan said: "I want to see a 10,000 plus crowd. Swansea are top of the league and we are flying high in fourth place."
"Doncaster Council have backed us by building a magnificent community stadium, where people can watch games in comfort and we are now asking the town to reallly get behind us on Friday and in the remaining home games. We want to get to the Championship - but we can't do it by ourselves. We need people to come out and support us and really get behind the club."
January 24, 2008
Pittman scores winner
Former Doncaster Rovers striker Jon-Paul Pittman scored Crawley Town's winning goal in their Sussex Senior Cup tie against Worthing last night. He came off the bench in the 73rd minute, scoring the winning goal in extra time.
Boss Steve Evans then claimed he wasn't bothered about the competition, saying: "This competition is nowhere on our list of priorities. We don't care about it. It is hardly the highlight of my career reaching the semi-finals of the Sussex Cup and even if we draw Brighton in the next round we won't be taking any interest in it. We put out a patched up team and had trained the players hard during the day and that shows what we think about this competition. But whenever you play a football match you want to win so in that sense it is good we are through."
January 24, 2008
Rovers play practice match
Doncaster Rovers played a full-scale practice match earlier in the week to give Paul Heffernan the chance to improve his fitness following an injury lay-off caused by damaged ankle ligaments, which was prolonged by an attack of shingles. Heffernan has resumed full training, but will not be considered for Friday's game against Swansea.
Sean O'Driscoll said: "We want to get him back as quickly as possible because he is an important member of the squad. We could fast track him if we need to, but ideally we'd like him to get a couple of games under his belt, but if it remains wet that is going to make it difficult - hence the idea of an in-house game."
January 23, 2008
Update for Leeds tickets
Doncaster Rovers have relaxed the restrictions for the sale of the remaining tickets for the home game against Leeds United on 16th February. Season ticket holders will have until 5pm on Friday to buy two additional tickets for the game. From Monday, 28th January, tickets will be sold at a rate of two per person to anyone who can provide an original, current utility bill. However, whilst the ticket office will be open on Tuesday evening for the Hartlepool game, Leeds tickets will not be on sale after 5pm on that day.
January 23, 2008
Team of the week
Defender Adam Lockwood has been named in the League One "Team of the Week" for his performance in Saturday's game at Leeds United - the first time he has received the nomination.
The full "team of the week" is: Clayton Ince (Walsall), Miguel Comminges (Swindon), Adam Lockwood (Doncaster), Scott Guyett (Yeovil), Andy Taylor (Tranmere), Leon Britton (Swansea), Jon Worthington (Huddersfield), Mark Gower (Southend), Tommy Black (Southend), Adam Boyd (Leyton Orient), Joe Garner (Carlisle).
January 23, 2008
McCormack on target and still a wanted man
Former Rovers loan striker Ross McCormack scored the only goal of the game for Motherwell last night in their 1-0 victory over Hearts in the fourth round of the Scottish Cup. The goal came from the penalty spot in the 23rd minute, which was awarded when McCormack played the ball against Eggert Jonsson's hand. Motherwell dominated the rest of the match, but failed to add to their goal tally.
Meanwhile, Hearts now seem to be the latest club to be keen to acquire McCormack's services, following on from interest shown by Middlesbrough and Wigan Athletic - but the player is still talking to Motherwell about a new contract at Fir Park, with the exisiting deal running out at the end of the season. Even if he were to move on to another club in the summer, a fee will be payable under UEFA regulations, as compensation is due for players under 23.
January 22, 2008
Midfield maestro wins vote
Midfielder Richie Wellens has been named as your "man of the match" for his great performance at Elland Road on Saturday. With the highest number of votes cast so far this season, Wellens gained just over half of the votes, gaining over twice as many as the closest contender - Mark McCammon. With eight players receiving nominations, the players receiving most votes were:
1 Richie Wellens (51.26%)
2 Mark McCammon (23.53%)
3 Brian Stock (8.40%)
4= Steve Roberts, Neil Sullivan (5.88%)
Thank you to everyone who voted. The next poll will open following Friday evening's home game against Swansea City.
January 22, 2008
Penney extends contract
Former Doncaster Rovers manager Dave Penney has signed a two year extension to his contract at Darlington, meaning he will stay at the club until June 2011. Penney joined the Quakers in October 2006 and has shaped the club into promotion contenders, with Darlington currently in the third automatic promotion place.
Penney said: "I am thoroughly enjoying working at Darlington. I have had the opportunity to shape the squad and bring in my own players and we are in a great position to push for promotion."
January 22, 2008
Sam extends loan
Rovers defender Sam Hird has had his loan deal at League Two Grimsby Town extended by a further month, with the new arrangement meaning he will stay at Blundell Park until 16th February. He joined Grimsby on 20th November, so this marks the third month of his loan.
January 22, 2008
Beardsley set for York return
Former Rovers striker Chris Beardsley is due to return to York City in ten days time, despite a prolific spell at Blue Square North leaders Kettering Town, where he has averaged over a goal a game. Kettering boss Mark Cooper has enquired about Beardsley staying for a longer period, but York manager Colin Walker, the former Rovers striker, said:: "I spoke to Chris after Kettering's game on Saturday and he said it was a scrappy win, but it can only be good for us that he's scored five goals in three games. Kettering have inquired about keeping him but I made a promise that after his month was up he would come back and get a good go with us and I intend to keep my promise."
Beardsley struggled with injury at the start of the season and was then sidelined for ten weeks after sustaining a fractured jaw in an incident that has led to Grays defender Jamie Stuart being charged with grievous bodily harm.
January 21, 2008
McCormack - now Wigan are interested
Following last week's news that former Rovers loan striker Ross McCormack had turned down a move to Middlesbrough, electing to stay at Motherwell until at least the end of the season, it has now been reported that Premiership strugglers Wigan Athletic have entered the chase for his signature. Preliminary talks with Middlesbrough have taken place, but it appears that Motherwell may now be in a position to offer McCormack an improved deal.
Motherwell's financial situation improved with the £600,000 sale of James McFadden to Birmingham last Friday. Mark McGhee has said: "Ross has told me he wants to stay. As well as the possibility of some money coming from the McFadden deal we already have some money to spend on incoming players and I have recommended that we spend some of that on keeping some of our better players, including Ross."
January 21, 2008
One more scorer
In addition to yesterday's round up of goals scored by former Doncaster Rovers players, there's another one that we've noticed. In the UniBond First Division(South), ex-Rovers midfielder Danny Hudson, now player/joint manager Danny Hudson opened the scoring for Kidsgrove Athletic in their 1-1 draw at Belper Town.
Hudson played nine games for Rovers whilst on loan from Rotherham United in the 2002/03 season.
January 21, 2008
Belle Vue redevelopment talks
Talks are currently being held concerning the future of Belle Vue between the freeholders of the site, Doncaster Council, and the leaseholders, Westferry Ltd. There have been consultations with the local community in recent weeks, with the outcome due to be discussed in a council meeting. The council's "economy and enterprise overview and security panel" is examining the options before the land is offered to contractors. It seems that it is likely that the redevelopment scheme will be a joint venture between Westferry and the council, with the proceeds being split between them.
It is most likely that the site will be used for housing and apartments, although there is likely to be a height restriction imposed.
Westferry submitted a planning proposal for the site back in 2003, which was very unpopular, which included a 17-storey apartment block in the centre of the site.
January 19, 2008
Leeds 0 Rovers 1
A superb performance by Rovers gave Leeds United a footballing lesson this afternoon, allowing the home side only a few chances on goal in the entire ninety minutes. Rovers had the majority of possession throughout, with the neat one-touch football leaving the Leeds players chasing shadows for long periods With the Leeds fans not appreciating the chants of "Can we play you every week", many of them streamed for the exits before the end of the game, which saw Rovers go above their opponents in the League One table. Rovers went ahead midway through the first half with a Brian Stock free kick, which went straight past the Leeds United defensive wall and into the goal past an unsighted goalkeeper. A more emphatic lead at half time would have reflected the game more fairly - apart from ten minutes early in the half when Leeds threatened a little but failed to seriously trouble Sullivan, it was the last ten minutes when the home side in search of an equaliser. The Rovers defence held firm, registering their first-ever win at Elland Road in the first league meeting between the two sides in 52 years.
The "Man of the match" voting has now closed. Thank you to the many people who took the trouble to vote. The result will be announced on Tuesday morning.
January 20, 2008
Goals check
Wrexham produced the shock of the day in Coca Cola League Two as the bottom club stunned leaders Milton Keynes Dons with a 1-0 victory at The Racecourse Ground yesterday. Former Doncaster Rovers striker scored the only goal of the game in the 71st minute. Such is Wrexham's plight that the three points won still leaves them bottom of the table, although now only a point behind Mansfield.
Darlington climbed up to third place thanks to a 1-0 victory over Mansfield, thanks to a first half penalty from ex-Rover Gregg Blundell, who was also on target on Tuesday evening in their 3-0 away win at Morecambe.
In the Blue Square Premier, Jon-Paul Pittman scored Crawley Town's first goal in their 4-1 home win over Rushden & Diamonds, which lifts Crawley up to 14th place in the table.
In the Blue Square North, Mark Hume scored twice for Harrogate Town in their 2-2 home draw against Barrow, keeping his side in the play-off places, nine points behind leaders Kettering Town.
Dropping into the UniBond Premier Division, ex-Rovers utility player Robert Pell scored Frickley Athletic's second goal in just the seventh minute, with Frickley racing to a 3-0 lead at half time. Athletic, bottom of the table, still managed to lose 4-3 - and the visitors didn't start scoring until the 74th minute!
Finally we go up to the top flight of English football - former Rovers loan defender David Wheater scored in the 13th minute to give Middlesbrough the lead at Blackburn Rovers. The match finished 1-1.
January 20, 2008
Brabin off in Saints' defeat
The New Saints, formerly Total Network Solutions, went down to a 1-0 defeat at Port Talbot in the Welsh Premier League yesterday, despite being red-hot favourites to win the match. Port Talbot seem to have a jinx over TNS, also having won the fixture at the same venue last season over the Welsh Premier Champions, who, before going into yesterday's game, had won 18 games and drawn one of their previous 19 games. To add to the champions' woes, they had a player stretchered off soon after the goal was scored - then in injury time at the end of the game, former Rovers midfielder Gary Brabin was sent off for a reckless challenge.
January 20, 2008
Rob joins Reds
Former Doncaster Rovers youth team defender Robert Pacey has joined for Alfreton Town, just three days after being released by Blue Square North rivals AFC Telford. Alfreton boss Nicky Law signed the player to boost his squad in the midst of a fixture pile-up, which follows 18 appearances for Telford in the period up to Christmas.
Pacey was released by Rovers in June 2007 after completing his first year as a pro player after graduating from the youth team, but spent the final three months of the campaign on loan at UniBond Premier club Gateshead.
January 19, 2008
Leeds v Rovers
Doncaster Rovers approach this afternoon's game at Elland Road with no injury worries, although Sean O'Driscoll is unlikely to make many changes to the team that has only lost one of the last 16 League One games played. Graeme Lee is back in training, but will not be involved today. Paul Heffernan has resumed training, but is unlikely to start the game, although he might get a place on the bench today. Matt Mills, who has signed a new loan deal from Manchester City for the rest of the season, is available - but we don't expect that O'Driscoll will break up the central defensive partnership of Steve Roberts and Adam Lockwood.
Brian Stock (knee), Paul Green (hamstring) and Jason Price (knee) have shaken off minor knocks picked up in the Carlisle game last weekend and trained this week
Leeds United have no new injury concerns for this afternon's game, and may name an unchanged side. Ian Westlake is doubtful with an ankle injury and will face a late fitness test. Should they name an unchanged squad, Peter Sweeney, Bradley Johnson and Darren Kenton are in line to make their home debuts. They will be without Rui Marques, who is on international duty in the Africa Cup of Nations with Angola.
January 19, 2008
Rovers in red today
It has been confirmed that Doncaster Rovers will play in their red and white hooped shirts for this afternoon's game.
January 19, 2008
Rovers to lay wreath
It has been reported that Doncaster Rovers supporters will lay a wreath at the statue of Billy Bremner outside Elland Road prior to this afternoon's game. The short ceremony is expected to take place just before 1pm.
Former Leeds captain Bremner, who died in 1997, managed Rovers in two separate spells in the 1980's and 1990's.
January 19, 2008
Supporters Coaches
Please note that the Supporters Club coaches will leave from Car Park 3 at the Keepmoat Stadium at 12.30pm today. There will be someone available to advise wich coach everyone has been allocated to - please make sure you check before boarding your coach, as this will avoid any delays in coaches leaving.
January 19, 2008
Youth game off
This morning's youth team fixture against Hull City has been postponed, owing to heavy rain in recent days making the pitch unplayable. The match has been rescheduled for Saturday, 26th January, wiht an 11am kick-off.
January 19, 2008
Akinfenwa joins Cobblers
Former Doncaster Rovers striker Adebayo Akinfenwa has joined League One club Northampton Town, signing a contract which runs until the end of the season. Akinfenwa was released from Millwall three days ago when his month-to-month contract with them expired.
January 18, 2008
Rovers keep eye on Andrew
Doncaster Rovers have confirmed that they are interested in signing Luton Town striker Calvin Andrew. Boss Sean O'Driscoll confirmed that he is interested in the player, but that the fact that Luton remain in administration complicates matters. Rovers have registered an interest in the player, with O'Driscoll saying: "We felt that he fits the bill of an up-and-coming Doncaster Rovers player. We were interested in him - and still are, to be honest. He's someone that would fit the bill. Whether it's dead or not, I'm not sure - but we have registered an interest."
January 18, 2008
Foster to leave Diamonds
Midfielder Martin Foster has left Blue Square Premier club Rushden & Diamonds and has joined Blue Square North side Tamworth. The former Rovers midfielder has struggled to hold down a place in the Rushden side this season, and he is reported to have struggled with the travelling from his home in Sheffield.
Manager Garry Hill commented: “Fozzie lives in Sheffield and the travelling has become hard for him over a period of time. I respect his honesty and I’ve now got to look to the future.”
January 18, 2008
McCormack set to stay at Fir Park
News reports from earlier in the week suggested that Middlesbrough were about to sign former Rovers loan striker Ross McCormack in a £250,000 transfer from Motherwell. However, McCormack yesterday insisted that he will remain at Motherwell for the rest of the season - and sees his future at Fir Park for "another season or two".
He said: "There is a lot of interest and some big clubs are in there with Middlesbrough but at this moment I don't feel it is right to sit down and talk with other clubs. Too much has gone on at the club and I don't think it would be right for me to even consider a move away in the January transfer window. I certainly will not be leaving in the current transfer window."
McCormack has scored eight goals in 22 appearances this season, and has also played for the Scotland under-21 and 'B' teams this season.
January 18, 2008
Wellens named in Team of the Week
Richie Wellens has been named in the League One "Team of the Week" for his performance in the game against Carlisle United last Saturday. It is the fourth time that he has been named in the "Team of the Week" this season. His great form on Saturday was recognised by Rovers fans when he was named as the clear "Man of the Match" on this website.
January 17, 2008
Swansea match on after shock cup exit
Doncaster Rovers' home game against Swansea City will go ahead next Friday following the Swans's shock FA Cup defeat at the hands of Blue Square South side Havant & Waterlooville last night. Havant stormed to a 3-0 lead before Swansea pulled two goals back - but a fourth goal for the home side finished the League One leaders off and the final non-league club left in the FA Cup now face a dream trip to Anfield, where they will be up against Premiership giants Liverpool.
Swansea will now make the trip to the Keepmoat Stadium for the game against Rovers on Friday, 25th January, with the match starting at 7.45pm. However, the scheduled match against Bristol Rovers for next Wednesday has been postponed as the Pirates have a rescheduled FA Cup replay against Fulham to play on the Tuesday evening. No rearranged date has yet been confirmed.
January 17, 2008
Johnson on target
Former Doncaster Rovers striker Simon Johnson scored the only goal of the game for Hereford United last night as they upset the form book by beating League One side Tranmere 1-0 in their FA Cup replay at Edgar Street. The Bulls now face Championship side Cardiff City in the fourth round.
January 17, 2008
Forte in World Cup call-up
Jonathan Forte, who spent most of the last two seasons on loan at Doncaster Rovers, has been called up to represent Barbados in their World Cup qualifying match against Dominica on February 6th. Forte, now playing with Championship side Scunthorpe United, will join up with the side following Scunthorpe's game against Charlton Athletic.
January 17, 2008
Stock set for Elland Road clash
Rovers midfielder Brian Stock should be fit to take his place in the side for Saturday's away game at Leeds United. Despite being substituted after a heavy challenge in the 83rd minute of Saturday's home game against Carlisle United, it appears that the injury is not as serious as first thought, and Stock was expected to train this week. There is still a chance that striker Paul Heffernan may take some part in the game, after the welcome news that he returned to training on Monday.
January 16, 2008
Rovers set for blank week
Doncaster Rovers look likely to have a ten-day gap between matches following the postponement of the away game at Bristol Rovers next Wednesday. The match was postponed yesterday after Bristol Rovers' FA Cup replay against Fulham was called off last night owing to a waterlogged pitch. The two sides will play the tie next week, ahead of the fourth round matches on 25/26/27th January.
Rovers are also due to play Swansea next Friday (25th January). However, Swansea are due to play Havant & Waterlooville this evening in an FA Cup replay - victory for Swansea tonight will mean their game against Rovers will be postponed.
In that eventuality, Rovers will have a gap of ten days between matches - the next match is on Saturday 19th January against Leeds, followed by a home game against Hartlepool United on Tuesday 29th January.
January 16, 2008
Heffernan returns
Rovers striker Paul Heffernan has returned to training after recovering from a bout of shingles, which delayed his return to training last week. Heffernan has been out of action since damaging ankle ligaments in the away game at Port Vale, but it will be uncertain until later in the week as to whether he will be considered for Saturday's game at Leeds.
January 16, 2008
Rovers sell out allocation for Leeds
The Keepmoat Stadium ticket office have sold all of the Doncaster Rovers allocation of tickets for Saturday's away game at Leeds United. The final few tickets were quickly sold yesterday, so with Leeds also reporting that there are only a limited number of tickets available for home fans, a crowd of well over 30,000 looks certain.
January 16, 2008
McCormack set for big money move
Former Rovers loan striker Ross McCormack may be about to move to Middlesbrough, despite previous news reports that he was in negotiations with Motherwell about extending his stay in the Scottish Premier League. McCormack is reported to be about to move to Middlesbrough in a £250,000 move to replace Stuart Downing, who seems to be about to move to Tottenham Hotspur this month for around £8 million.