December 15, 2008

Barker for Stags return?

Following the sacking of Mansfield boss Billy McEwan recently, it seems that former Rovers striker Richie Barker is becoming one of the favourites for the post amongst Mansfield fans. Other names to be mentioned include David Holdsworth, currently boss at Ilkeston Town, and ex-Halifax boss Chris Wilder.
Barker only joined Rotherham on loan from Hartlepool recently, but has said in the past "I would love to go back to Mansfield Town sometime as manager. I have made no secret of that and there was even the odd rumour it might happen while I was there. It would be the perfect place to work for me."
Barker was sold by Mansfield in January 2007 after what he described as 'probably the most enjoyable two years of my 17 years in professional football'. Although lacking in managerial experience, he has taken his coaching badges over the last ten years and has gained his UEFA "A" licence, so is qualified to manage at all levels of English football.

December 15, 2008

Forest ticket info

Tickets for the Boxing Day away game at Nottingham Forest are currently on sale from the Keepmoat Stadium ticket office. Rovers have received an allocation of 2,164, which are now on general sale at the following prices:
Adults £24.50
Senior Citizens (60+) £18.50
Full time students/Under 18s £11.50
Under 12s £5.50
Ambulant Disabled & Carer £18.50
Wheelchair disabled supporters must book their tickets direct with Nottingham Forest by phonone 0871 226 1980.

December 15, 2008

Turner set for another loan

Everton goalkeeper Iain Turner, who has failed to hold a regular first team place at Everton despite being there for the last five years, has said that he will consider going out on loan to get some first team action. The 24 year old has only featured in six first team games for the Toffees, and has already been out on loan at Chester City, Doncaster Rovers, Wycombe Wanderers, Crystal Palace and Sheffield Wednesday.
Turner said: “I would consider going out on loan, for sure. I’ve still got a few years left at Everton so, for now, I just want to get match practice and as many competitive games as possible – and I’ll go out on loan if that’s what the gaffer wants.”

December 13, 2008

Crystal Palace 2 Rovers 1

Doncaster Rovers were very unfortunate not to come away from Selhurst Park without a point this afternoon after eventually succumbing to an 89th minute goal from Alan Lee. They had to battle for 70 minutes with ten men after Matt Mills was sent off for committing a foul that gave Crystal Palace their penalty, but went on to produce a highly disciplined performance to frustrate Neil Warnock's team. Rovers made changes to their side, a number enforced, with Brian Stock and James Coppinger missing out, but Paul Heffernan and Richie Wellens returned to the side. Heffernan repaid the manager's faith with a good performance, as well as putting Rovers in front in the 15th minute, as Rovers opted to change their strike force, with Heffernan being joined up front by Northern Ireland international Stuart Elliott.
With Nottingham Forest picking up a point this afternoon, Rovers dropped to 23rd place on goal difference, and are now four points away from safety.

December 14, 2008

O'Driscoll: "the referee game them an awful lot"

Doncaster Rovers manager Sean O'Driscoll was left to rue a number of dubious decisions following yesterday's defeat at Crystal Palace. The sending off of Matt Mills after just twenty minutes was a crucial decision after Rovers had made a great start to the game, going in front to a Paul Heffernan goal. O'Driscoll said: "But the game did change with the sending off. It allowed them to get back into it and also changed our game plan. We tried to defend as best as we could, which we did until their winning goal, but I cannot fault my players for all their effort. If it was 11 v 11 it would have been a different match. They are a powerful side and it would have still been a tough game. From my perception the referee gave them an awful lot. He made decisions when he was too far away."

December 14, 2008

Goals review

The goals review of former Rovers players scoring goals yesterday is somewhat shorter than usual for a number of reasons. Much of the non-league football was called off yesterday due to waterlogged pitches - and the FA Trophy First Round was also severely hit, with less than half of the scheduled fixtures taking place.
Nevertheless, we begin in the FA Trophy First Round, where former Rovers youth striker Michael Rankine scored in the 56th minute for Rushden & Diamonds in their 1-0 win at Newport County.
In the Workington v King's Lynn match, Simon Weaver scored for King's Lynn, although the home side eventually went through 4-3, with Adam Collin again having a good game in goal for Workington.

December 14, 2008

Byfield back?

Rovers striker Darren Byfield played the last match of his month's loan yesterday as Oldham Athletic drew 2-2 against Peterborough United. So far, there has been no word from Oldham that they are looking to extend the loan, so we presume that Byfield will return to Doncaster next week to fight for a first team place.
According to the press in the Oldham area, Rovers are being reported to be interestested, along with Nottingham Forest and Sheffield United, in signing winger Chris Taylor. All three clubs are said to have watched Taylor in the last few weeks. Rovers are also said to be showing an interest in Lee Hughes, who scored both of Oldham's goals yesterday.

December 14, 2008

Offiong signs new deal

Ex-Rover Richard Offiong has signed a one-year extension to his Hamilton Academicals contract, which will keep him at New Douglas Park until the end of the 2009/10 season. He will need to be in peak goal-scoring form for the rest of the season though - the Accies currently are in deep relegation trouble in the SPL having only gained promotion to the top flight in the summer for the first time in their history, and they currently lie three points adrift at the bottom of the table. Offiong scored 21 goals in last season's promotion campaign.

December 13, 2008

Crystal Palace v Rovers

Doncaster Rovers will be forced to make changes for this afternoon's game at Selhurst Park, with midfielders James Coppinger and Brian Stock likely to be missing. Coppinger is understood to be out for a couple of weeks with ankle ligament damage, whilst Stock has a calf injury. Richie Wellens, who missed Tuesday's defeat at Preston owing to illness, may return, but Rovers will make a late decision on the influential midfielder. Sean O'Driscoll has hinted that he may change the tactics should two or more of the three miss out this afternoon.
Rovers are already without James Hayter (knee ligaments), Gordon Greer (hip) and Sean McDaid, who is to have an operation to strengthen his patella tendon next week.
Crystal Palace also have doubts ahead of this afternoon's game, but will definitely be without striker Craig Beattie, who has been recalled from his loan by West Bromwich Albion. Ben Watson and John Oster will need late fitness checks on groin and calf injuries respectively. Also out for Palace are James Scowcroft (hamstring), Lee Hills (knee), Carl Fletcher (back) and Neil Danns (ankle), although Alan Lee came through a reserve game in midweek and may be included in today's squad.
Rovers will be looking to resume their recent improved form that saw a five match unbeaten run ended on Tuesday. They will be looking to gain a very valuable three points that will put them in a much better position ahead of the Christmas set of matches. Palace, on the other hand, are undefeated in the last five matches, having won four of those, and are hoping to move into the play-off positions this afternoon.
Rovers manager Sean O'Driscoll told BBC Radio Sheffield: "We are quite adept at changing the structure and the system of what we play, while remaining tactically the same. If Richie Wellens and Brian Stock are missing, we will have to do something a little bit different but we won't have a lot of time to prepare."

December 13, 2008

Palace tickets

Tickets for this afternoon's game at Crystal Palace will be on sale from the ticket office at Selhurst Park, but please be aware that no credit cards or £50 notes will be accepted as payment.
Please allow sufficient time to buy your ticket to enable you to get into the ground in plenty of time. Ticket prices are the same as for the advance bought tickets, being as follows:
Adults £24.50, Concessions/Under 16s £14.50
Family tickets are also available - 2 Adults & 2 Under 16s: £51
2 Concessions & 2 Under 16s: £31

December 13, 2008

Beresford struck off

It has been widely reported in the last few days that Doncaster Rovers director Jim Beresford has been struck off by the Solicitors' Disciplinary Tribunal after being found guilty, along with Douglas Smith, also from Beresford Solicitors, of eight out of 11 allegations of "serious professional misconduct".
Beresford and Smith are reported to have stepped down as partners in Beresford Solicitors, with the Rovers board understood to be meeting next week to discuss his future with Rovers.
The duo made millions of pounds out of personal injury claims for miners under the Government's coal health compensation scheme.

December 13, 2008

Blundell may stay on

Former Rovers striker Gregg Blundell has admitted that he would be willing to stay on at Accrington Stanley at the end of his initial month's loan at the club after having a frustrating season at Darlington. Whilst he had been involved in all but one match for the Quakers before his switch to Stanley, almost all of those were as a late substitute.
His move to Accrington Stanley just ahead of their FA Cup second round tie, did, however, land him in hot water with his girlfriend. Darlington had given all their players four days off as they had gone out at the first round stage, so Blundell had agreed to take her to Paris - but the plans had to be scrapped at the last minute when the loan move went through. As he said: "I am still in trouble. Darlington, as we were out of the FA Cup, had given us four days off - then I got a phone call to say I was coming on loan to Accrington. I am in the bad books but it is one of those things that happens and all part of the job. It is just my luck though."

December 12, 2008

Rovers injury problems pile up

The treatment room at Cantley Park must be a busy place at the moment, with a number of players either doubtful or definitely out of Saturday's match at Crystal Palace. Following on from loan players Shelton Martis and Steve Brooker going back to their respective clubs early due to injury, Sean McDaid has gone into hospital for an operation which will strengthen his patella tendon as he continues his long recovery from a dislocated kneecap. James Hayter is still suffering from a knee ligament problem and has not yet returned to training.
Gordon Greer has started light training after a long absence with a hip injury, but will not be ready for first team action for a while yet.
Rovers hope that Richie Wellens will be fit to play on Saturday, after a sickness bug affected him in the Plymouth game and forced him to miss the Preston match.
Added to that, Brian Stock is doubtful with a calf injury and is rated as no more than 50-50 for tomorrow's game.
Whilst no Rovers players are currently suspended, there are three players - James Chambers, Martin Woods and Matt Mills - who are on four bookings, just one away from a one-match suspension.
As Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll said: "Injuries and suspensions are part and parcel of football but when you get them both at once it's a double whammy. We'll be keeping our fingers crossed that we don't pick up any more bookings but you can't ask players to pull out of tackles or wrap them in cotton wool when it comes to getting injured. It's always difficult if you have key players missing but it's something you have to deal with and not allow to deflect your focus from the games coming up."

December 12, 2008

Blott in sights

Rovers are reported to be giving a trial to Scarborough Athletic striker Ryan Blott. Blott has been at Scarborough since October 2007 and went on to score 20 goals in just 21 starts, including a hat-trick against Borrowash in March.

December 12, 2008

Voting results

Sam Hird was the narrow winner in the "Man of the Match" voting for Tuesday's away game at Preston North End. Eight players received votes, with the most going as follows:
1 Sam Hird (28.57%)
2 Stuart Elliott (21.43%)
3 James O'Connor & John Spicer (14.29% each)
Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote. The next vote will open following Saturday's away game at Crystal Palace.

December 12, 2008

Kevin switches the lights on!

Former Rovers midfielder Kevin Horlock was the guest of honour yesterday when he switched on the Christmas lights in Eye town centre. He was accompanied in the evening's entertainment by the Hoxon Hundred Morris Dancers and carols sung by the Eye Primary School choir.

December 11, 2008

Crystal Palace coaches

The Supporters Club still have places left on coaches to Saturday's match at Crystal Palace. They leave Retford at 8.15am, Harworth Pit Gates 8.20am, Bawtry 8.30am, Rossington Styrrup 8.30am, Hare & Tortoise 8.35am, Doncaster Royal Infirmary 8.45am and the Keepmoat Stadium Car Park 3 at 9.00am.
Fares for members are £20 for adults, £18 for OAPs and £16 for Under-16's. Fares for non-members are £2 more. You can take advantage of members' prices by joining the Supporters Club on the coach. Membership costs £5 for the season, and as well as the lower travel rates, you also are covered by the Supporters Club insurace.
To book a place on the coach, please phone Len South on 01302 817347 or Harry Bacon on 01302 854626.

December 11, 2008

Rovers boss - "we can't afford to switch off"

Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll has said that his players still need to learn if they are to survive in the Championship this season - and concentrating for the full match is a key part of that survival plan.
O'Driscoll said: "We have to learn really quickly in this division with regards to the little things that maybe the players find difficult to take on board because they are such simple things. Things like not switching off when the ball goes out of play. There was one point when Brian Stock had a shot from a free-kick, then spent the next five seconds with his back to play berating the fact that he shouldn't have had a shot and missed the target. He should have been switched on to make sure the goalkeeper could not do what he wanted to do.
"Everybody in this division is strong. Everybody who has been in the Championship, like Preston, for a number of seasons are almost battled hardened. Every game is a grind, and that is what we have got to come to terms with. You can lose it on a set play. Those are the little things that we have got to illustrate. It's not rocket science to tell people that when the opposition has a corner you have got to mark your man. Whether that is the pressure of this league, I don't know."

December 11, 2008

Scunny recall Forte

Scunthorpe have recalled former Doncaster Rovers striker/winger Jonathan Forte from his loan at Notts County. Still aged only 22, Forte had a great start to his time at Notts County, scoring a hat-trick on his debut, but Scunthorpe have decided that he is to return after his month's loan expires as he is required to cover for two injured strikers. Forte will go straight into the Scunthorpe squad for Saturday's game against Northampton Town in League One.
County boss Ian McParland said: "I spoke to Nigel Adkins today, who informed me that they will be invoking the clause in the loan arrangement to recall Jonathan after 28 days. It's a shame he couldn't have stayed with us longer because he was a good outlet for us with his pace, but we knew there was always a chance he could go back. He did well for us and his hat-trick at Barnet on his debut was a memory he can cherish from his time at Meadow Lane."

December 10, 2008

Preston 1 Rovers 0

Rovers' five match unbeaten run came to an end eight minutes from the end of last night's match at Deepdale when Jon Parkin, who had been on the pitch just eight minutes, headed home a cross to give Preston the three points that lifted them into seventh place. At least all of the bottom three lost, and Southampton were defeated on Monday evening, so the situation is no worse than before the evening's fixtures.
Rovers made one change for the game, with Richie Wellens missing out due to illness, with Adam Lockwood returning to the starting eleven in his place. The first half had very few scoring opportunities and finished goalless, but the best chance came to Rovers, with Sam Hird heading straight at the goalkeeper from a James O'Connor cross - had his effort being either side of Longergan, Rovers would have taken the lead.
Preston started the second half brightly, but just when it looked as though Rovers would successfully come away with a point, Parkin, on as a late subsitute, headed home to give the home side the points.
A little harsh on Rovers, who looked to have started the game with the aim of getting a point, and were very nearly successful in their quest. And they could have nicked the point right at the end, when Stuart Elliott's audacious 30 yards shot had the Preston keeper scrambling towards his far post, but sadly the ball went just wide.

December 10, 2008

Goals check

A goal from former Rovers midfielder John McGrath set Burton Albion on the way to a 3-1 home win over Cambridge United. The victory means that Burton extended their lead at the top of the Blue Square Premier to five points, although they have played two games more than second placed Histon.
Also in the Blue Square Premier, former youth team striker Michael Rankine scored Rushden & Diamonds' equaliser in the 41st minute in their 1-1 draw at Woking, which keeps Rushden in eighth place, just four points outside the play-off places.
Finally, in the West Riding County Cup, Andy Hayward scored a hat-trick for Garforth Town as they won 4-3 at Liversedge in their second round tie.

December 10, 2008

Congratulations to Richard

We notice that former Rovers striker Richard Offiong, now at Hamilton Academical, missed last Saturday's 7-1 defeat against Rangers because his partner was due to give birth. We are glad to report that he became the father of a boy on Sunday morning - congratulations go to them - mother and baby are reported to be doing well.

December 10, 2008

Hibs eye Adam for move north

Maybe it proves the difference in standards between the levels of football in England and Scotland, but we noticed at the weekend that Scottish Premier League club Hibernian are reported to be poised to be about to offer former Rovers goalkeeper Adam Collin, currently playing in the Blue Square North for Workington Reds, the chance to play in the SPL. The 23-year old has just started having trials at Carlisle United, but it has been reported that Collin is about to be about to be offered a deal at Easter Road after being considered to be one of the best goalkeepes in the English non-leagues.

December 9, 2008

Preston v Rovers

Doncaster Rovers travel to Preston North End this evening aiming not only to extend their five-match unbeaten run, but also to gain sufficient points to get out of the bottom three of the Championship league table.
Rovers will take a late check on skipper Brian Stock, who is reported have suffered a slight calf strain on Saturday, but Richie Wellens, who struggled on Saturday due to an illness, should have recovered sufficiently to keep his place in the side tonight. Apart from that, we expect the rest of the squad to remain the same as Sean O'Driscoll will look to keep the recent improved form going.
Absent due to injury are James Hayter (knee), Jos van Nieuwstadt (hamstring) and Sean McDaid (knee).
Preston will be looking to get back on the winning track tonight after seeing a five match unbeaten run come to an end on Saturday when they lost to Cardiff City. Despite that loss, they still remain just outside the promotion places and they will presumably be hoping to keep that challenge going tonight.
Preston will give a late fitness test to striker Neil Mellor, who is suffering from a hip injury with meant he had to be replaced after 45 minutes on Saturday, as he suffered a reoccurence of a hip injury picked up against Bristol City. Definitely missing tonight will be Liam Chilvers (hamstring), Neal Trotman (hernia), Michael Hart (ankle) and Wayne Henderson (back).

December 9, 2008

Kinnear in trouble again

Former Rovers manager Joe Kinnear is set to be in trouble again after being reported to the FA by referee Mike Riley. Kinnear was banished from the dugout after disputing a free kick which led to Stoke City's second equaliser in Newcastle United's 2-2 draw on Saturday. Kinnear has been charged with using abusive and insulting words towards an official.
This is not the first time this season that Kinnear has been in trouble - he started off his Newcastle career in the stands due to an outstanding touchline ban from his time at Nottingham Forest - and then he more recently dubbed Martin Atkinson as a "Mickey Mouse referee" following Newcastle's 2-1 defeat at Fulham in November.
Kinnear is in charge at Newcastle until the end of the season following Kevin Keegan's departure.

December 9, 2008

Voting results

Brian Stock was the clear winner in the "Man of the Match" voting for his performance in Saturday's home win over Plymouth, meaning that he maintains his current lead for the season as a whole. Eleven players received nominations, with the most votes going as follows:
1 Brian Stock (43.01%)
2 James O'Connor (20.43%)
3 James Chambers (10.75%)
4 Matt Mills (7.53%)
Thank you to everyone who took part. The next vote will open following this evening's game at Preston North End.

December 8, 2008

Belles reach final

Doncaster Rovers Belles have reached the final of the Women's Premier League Cup Final after comfortably beating Preston North End 3-1 at the Keepmoat Stadium yesterday afternoon. Rovers Belles were 2-0 up after just seven minutes, thanks to goals from Rachel Williams and Emily Heckler, and whilst Preston pulled back a goal six minutes before the break, the home side restored the two goal advantage only a minute into the second half.
Doncaster will meet Arsenal in the final, with the London side winning 4-0 at Chelsea.

December 8, 2008

Preston ref

The match officials for tomorrow's away game at Preston North End are scheduled to be:
Referee: G Laws
Assistant referees: M Brown and D Handley
Fourth official: A C Newell

December 8, 2008

Brevett coup for Bedfont

Bedfont, who play in the Combined Counties League Premier Division, have pulled off a huge coup, with their manager Mick Turtle managing to persuade former Rovers defender Rufus Brevett to join the club as his assistant manager.
Brevett played much of his career at Queens Park Rangers and Fulham, and only went down to Bedfont to do some coaching for one of his coaching badges. Turtle said: “It has all been a bit of a whirlwind really. I only met Rufus on Thursday when he came down to do a bit of coaching for his badges, and to be honest he fitted straight in. The lads loved the session he did and he liked the professionalism and ambition we have here and he feels that he can help us achieve our aims.”

December 6, 2008

Rovers 1 Plymouth 0

Doncaster Rovers extended their unbeaten run to five matches this afternoon when they deservedly beat Plymouth Argyle, thanks to a superb 25 yard strike by Brian Stock. Until the goal, however, Rovers looked rather short of attacking ideas, but their display picked up markedly after going in front. Plymouth offered little in attack, with the majority of the game being played in the Plymouth half of the pitch. The first half was held up five minutes before the break when the referee had to be replaced due to injury, and somehow the change of officials seemed to coincide with an upturn in the Rovers fortunes.
The win takes Rovers up two places, and whilst remaining in the bottom three, they are only two points adrift of 21st placed Norwich City. So, maybe the "Great Escape" is now on?!

December 7, 2008

Goals check

Looking around the divisions for ex-Rovers players scoring goals yesterday, we begin in League Two, where JJ Melligan scored Leyton Orient's equaliser in their 1-1 draw at Northampton Town. Jack Lester scored a 60th minute goal for Chesterfield, but they went down 2-1 at Gillingham.
One rung further down the league ladder, Jon-Paul Pittman scored in the fifth minute of injury time at the end of Crawley's home game against Altrincham, with the home side keeping up their promotion challenge with a 4-0 victory.
In the Blue Square North, defender Simon Weaverscored for Kings Lynn in their 2-2 home draw against financially troubled Stafford Rangers.
In the Welsh Premier League, Rhyl kept their place at the top of the table with a resounding 3-0 win at third placed The New Saints, with Neil Roberts setting them on their way in the 6th minute. The result sees Rhy three points ahead of second placed Llanelli.
Moving north into Scotland, Rovers legend Colin Cramb scored twice in East Stirling's 5-0 home win over third placed Montrose - a result that lifts East Stirling into fifth place - a far cry from their struggle at the bottom of the table earleir in the season.
Finally, we note that David Wheater got sent off whilst playing for Middlesbrough against Hull City yesterday. His dismissal six minutes from the end of the game summed up a miserable day for Boro - they lost 2-1.

December 7, 2008

Belles in cup glory bid

Doncaster Rovers Belles have one eye on a cup final this afternoon when they entertain Preston North End in the Premier League Cup semi-final, which kicks off at the Keepmoat Stadium at 2pm. Preston come from a division lower than the Rovers Belles, but skipper Vicky Exley is well aware that Preston will also be wanting to reach the final, with Arsenal facing Chelsea in the other semi-final.
Exley said: "It's the biggest game the club has had since we changed our name to Doncaster Rovers Belles and we are all really looking forward to it. The occasion will be big and the girls are raring to go after having a short break as a result of two of our players being away with England at the Under 20 World Cup in Chile. We know that Preston will come and make it difficult for us. However, we are confident that we can achieve our goals as the players are all hungry for success. We have got largely a young squad but all of the players are quite experienced now with playing week in and week out in the FA Women's Premier League."
The match is being played in the main stadium, and admission prices are £3 for adults, and £1 for concessions.

December 7, 2008

Adam on trial at Cumbrians

Ex-Rovers goalkeeper Adam Collin, currently at Blue Square North club Workington Reds, has been handed a trial at Carlisle United. Collin joined Workington in 2004 and has impressed during that time, having also been on trials at Hereford last season.
Carlisle boss Greg Abbott said: "He's going to come in and train with us from Monday. He'll join us, get some expert coaching and that will help him at Workington. It will also give us a chance to see what level he's at."

December 6, 2008

Rovers v Plymouth

Doncaster Rovers are forced to make changes for this afternoon's home game against Plymouth after loan duo Shelton Martis and Steve Brooker have both returned to their parent clubs with injuries. With James Hayter having limped off in the last home game with a knee injury and defender Jos van Nieuwstadt out of action until the New Year as he recovers from a hamstring injury, Sean O'Driscoll's options may well be limited, with Gordon Greer (groin) and Sean McDaid (knee) also still out of contention.
Former Rovers skipper Adam Lockwood may well be back in the squad for today's match for one of the central defender positions, with O'Driscoll likely to play two of Matt Mills, Lockwood or Sam Hird.
Plymouth are hoping to bounce back from their defeat against Blackpool last weekend which ended their four match unbeaten run, and will be missing striker Emile Mpenza with a hamstring injury suffered in their game against Blackpool last weekend, with Steve MacLean likely to return to the squad in Mpenza's place. Skipper Karl Duguid remains absent with a calf injury, as does defender David McNamee.

December 6, 2008

Today's ref

The match officials for this afternoon's game against Plymouth Argyle are as follows:
Referee: R J Beeby
Assistant Referees: D A McCallum & A R Parker
Fourth Official: P Bramley

December 6, 2008

Youth game change

Due to a waterlogged pitch, today's youth team game, which was due to be an away fixture at Mansfield Town, has been changed, with the match now being played at the Rovers' Cantley Park traning ground, with an 11am kick-off.

December 6, 2008

Warrington hopes for early return

Former Rovers goalkeeper Andy Warrington, currently out of action with a shoulder injury, is hoping to be back in action much earlier than previously anticipated. The 32-year old shot-stopper was thought to be facing a two month absence, but Warrington has told the Rotherham Star "I got told I'd be out for two months, but to be honest I'm hoping to be back after a month. I'm still training hard, working on my technique, although I can't do any diving. My shoulder doesn't feel too bad and hopefully the ligaments will heal quickly. I want to get back playing as quickly as possible. It's just one of those things unfortunately. I fell awkwardly, I pile-drove the floor and my shoulder took the full force of the fall."

December 5, 2008

Coaches to Palace

The Supporters Club are running coaches to next Saturday's away game at Crystal Palace. They leave Retford at 8.15am, Harworth Pit Gates 8.20am, Bawtry 8.30am, Rossington Styrrup 8.30am, Hare & Tortoise 8.35am, Doncaster Royal Infirmary 8.45am and Keepmoat Stadium Car Park 3 at 9.00am.
Members fares are: Adults £20, OAPs £18, U16s £16.
Non-members will have to play £2 more for each category.
Please note that Len South is not taking bookings for coach travel for either the Preston or Crystal Palace matches. Please phone Harry on 01302 854626 or Paul Mayfield on 01427 880154 or 077404 53066.

December 5, 2008

Wheater wins award

Former Doncaster Rovers loan defender David Wheater has been named as the North East Fooball Writers' Player and Young Player of the Year at their award ceremony in Durham last Saturday evening. Wheater's career took a great stride forward in the last twelve months, becoming a regular first team player at Middlesbrough and also being selected in various England squads, although he has yet to play for the senior side at international level. He has become the first player to win these awards in his debut Premiership season, but he has found it a bit tougher this campaign, although he has played some matches out of position at right back.

December 5, 2008

Thornley joins Ashton

Ex-Rovers striker Rod Thornley, who currently works as a sports masseur with the England squad, has joined UniBond Premier Division club Ashton United from divisional rivals Witton Albion. Thornley, now 31, has become a well known name in the North-West non-league, becoming top scorer at Congleton Town before a long and fruitful time at Altrincham.
Thornley became a number of "one match wonders" to play for Rovers during the 1997/98 season.

December 5, 2008

Team of the Week

December 5, 2008

Cut price tickets tomorrow

As part of their promotion as a result of the VAT reduction, Rovers are reducing prices for anyone buying a ticket for tomorrow's home game against Plymouth or the home game against Wolves. Under 16s can get in to the ground for £5, and any adult accompanying a child can get in for £15. Any season ticket holders can use Voucher A in their season ticket book to get a £5 discount in the club shop on club shop items and match day programmes.

December 4, 2008

O'Driscoll rues bad luck of injuries

Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll is having to adjust his plans after two loan players have been ruled out of action until January. He said: "It's amazing that we should lose both men at the same time just like that and you start to wonder what you have done wrong. But we can't afford to sit around and cry about it. It opens doors for other players to take their chance and we just have to get on with the job."
Steve Brooker went back to Bristol City after tearing a calf muscle in Monday's training session - meaning his Rovers career could be limited to one goal and 24 minutes of action.
Defender Shelton Martis is also out for a month, and has also returned to his parent club. As O'Driscoll explained: "Nothing had been signed so Shelton will go back now because his month's loan is up. He has been excellent while he has been here and we will keep an eye on the situation with the intention of looking at another loan spell or the possibility of a permanent deal if West Brom decided to make him available."
O'Driscoll continued: "We had already broached the subject of a permanent move for Brooker with Bristol City and we will continue to monitor the situation. There's a chance that Steve will stay up here to do his rehabilitation and that will enable us to keep an eye on him and check his fitness. He had already made an impression with the other players during his brief time here and the injury he has sustained is not related to anything that has troubled him in the past."

December 4, 2008

Crystal Palace ticket details

Tickets for next Saturday's away game at Crystal Palace are now on sale from the Keepmoat Stadium ticket office, who have received 1,000 tickets for Rovers fans.
Tickets are now on general sale at the following prices:
Adults £25
Senior Citizens (60+), U16s, Students under 24 in full time education (with ID), Wheelchair disabled & carer: £15
Family ticket (2 adults & 2 children) £52
Family ticket (2 seniors & 2 children) £32
Crystal Palace have asked that all supporters are in the ground at least 45 minutes before the kick-off to avoid congestion at the turnstiles - buying tickets in advance will also help reduce congestion. Please note that students should bring their NUS cards with them as they will be requested at the turnstiles.

December 4, 2008

Moore out for four weeks

Barnsley have been hit by the news that former Rovers defender Darren Moore is out of action for four weeks due to a groin injury sustained in their game against Watford. Moore has been an influential part of Barnsley's recovery from a poor start to the season, with boss Simon Davey saying: "Losing Darren Moore is a big blow to us. He has a tear in his groin muscle. He will be out for three or four weeks at least and it is a big blow. Darren has played consistently well for us this season and it's a big loss, but we have players in our squad who can fill in and they have to take this opportunity."

December 4, 2008

Sarge off as Boro crash out of cup

December 4, 2008

Lewer continues as Hollins is sacked

Former Rovers assistant manager Alan Lewer will continue as caretaker manager at Blue Square Premier club Weymouth following yesterday's news that boss John Hollins has been sacked for breach of contract.
Hollins has been on "gardening leave" while the club held an investigation into certain allegations which resulted in yesterday's decision. After a successful start at the club, it seems that Hollins approached Woking about their vacant manager's position earlier this season, as well as missing a number of training sessions, including many during the summer, leaving Lewer to hold the fort.
Weymouth chairman Malcolm Curtis said: "We got wind that John had spoken to Woking, but he denied it and I was tempted to dismiss it as just another rumour. But I rang Woking's chairman who said he'd look into it and he came back to say that yes, John had spoken to a couple of club's directors about the job. To me, that's not the behaviour of someone committed to Weymouth or who even cares about Weymouth Football Club. It was embarrassing for me and for the Woking chairman and I'm sure our supporters will feel let down by John's actions, the same way that both Alan Lewer and the players felt let down. Alan Lewer has been a real credit throughout this difficult time and he will now assume the responsibility of first team manager on a caretaker basis".
Lewer was assistant to Steve Wignall whilst at Doncaster Rovers.

December 3, 2008

Booker KO forces him back to Ashton Gate

Doncaster Rovers' on-loan striker Steve Brooker has been forced to cut his time at Doncaster short after tearing a calf muscle in training on Monday. Brooker has returned to parent club Bristol City for treatment and is not expected to play again until after his loan at Rovers expires. The 27-year old striker scored only six minutes after coming on as a 64th minute subsitute on Saturday, going on to win the "Man of the Match" vote on this website. However, he has suffered from injury in recent years and this latest setback seems to be the latest of a number of fitness issues for the player.
Bristol City boss Gary Johnson said: "It's obviously disappointing news for everyone concerned. We are in discussions with Doncaster as to the best way forward."
Discussions between the two clubs are ongoing, with Sean O'Driscoll monitoring the situation.
The injury setback is a big blow for Rovers as Brooker seemed to be the answer to their scoring problems, and the move had been reported to be a loan "with a view to a full transfer in January".

December 3, 2008

Rovers to face Robins

Doncaster Rovers now know who their opponents in the third round of the FA Cup will be, following last night's tie between Morecambe and Cheltenham Town. The original tie on Saturday was abandoned due to foggy conditions, but in the rematch at Christie Park, Cheltenham Town edged through by a 3-2 scoreline.
The fixture gives Rovers the ideal opportunity for revenge over Cheltenham, who beat Rovers on the last day of fixtures last season, a result that denied Doncaster automatic promotion and forced them to go through the drama of the play-offs.
The third round of the FA Cup is due to be played on the weekend of 3rd and 4th January 2009.

December 3, 2008

Rovers in for Hughes in January?

The Manchester Evening News has reported that Oldham Athletic look likely to lose striker Lee Hughes in the January transfer window due to a £400,000 get-out clause in his contract. Doncaster Rovers are described as "heading the queue for his services".
The 32-year old striker would be available for the FA Cup Third Round after missing the last round due to suspension. Hughes reaches the end of his contract in the summer and could move on for nothing - but the Latics could cash in if interested clubs start a bidding war.
Rovers striker Darren Byfield is currently on loan at Oldham.

December 3, 2008

Baggies check out Stock

The Daily Mirror has reported that Premiership club West Bromwich Albion are keeping an eye on the form of Rovers' influential midfielder Brian Stock. West Brom boss Tony Mowbray is reported to offer £1 million for the player, who signed a new contract with Rovers during the summer.

December 3, 2008

Preston coach info

The Supporters Club are running coaches to next Tuesday's away game against Preston North End. They will leave Retford at 3.30pm, Harworth Pit Gates 3.35pm, Bawtry 3.45pm, Rossington Styrrup 3.45pm, Hare & Tortoise 3.50pm, Doncaster Royal Infirmary 4.00pm and Keepmoat Stadium Car Park 3 at 4.15pm.
Fare for members are: Adults £12, OAPs £11 and U16s £10.
Non members pay £2 more for each category.
To book a place on the coach, please phone Harry on 01302 854626 or Paul Mayfield on 01427 880154 or 077404 53066. Please note that Len South is not taking bookings for this fixture or for the Crystal Palace game, but will be taking bookings after that.

December 2, 2008

Preston ticket information

Tickets for next Tuesday's away game at Preston North End are now on sale from the Keepmoat Stadium ticket office. Rovers have received an allocation of 960 tickets for the match, which are now on general sale.
Tickets are for unreserved seating at the following prices:
Adults £20 (should have 3 stubs on tickets)
Senior Citizens (60+), Young Adults (16-20) £12 (should have 2 stubs on tickets)
Juniors (15 & under) £5 (should have 1 stub on ticket)
Children 7 & under: free (should have 1 stub on ticket)
Family ticket (1 adult & 2 juniors) £25
Family ticket (2 adults & 2 juniors) £45
Wheelchair disabled supporters pay the respetive price, but their carers can get in free
Ambulant disabled supporters pay either £20, with their carer getting in free, or £12 without a carer

December 2, 2008

Nelly's back!

Rovers winger Craig Nelthorpe, who has been on loan at Gateshead for the last three months, has returned to Doncaster after completing his loan period. His last match for Gateshead was due to be their away game at AFC Telford United on 15th November.
Nelthorpe has played well during this time on Tyneside, although has not been permitted to play in FA Cup matches for them, meaning he is not cup-tied, so he could play in either Rovers' third round tie against Cheltenham or Morecame, or for any other club, should he move on in January for another loan spell.

December 2, 2008

Voting results v Watford

He may have only been on the pitch for twenty minutes, but goal-scoring on-loan striker Steve Brooker did enough to win the majority of the "Man of the Match" votes for Saturday's away game at Watford. With nine Rovers players being nominated, the players receiving most votes were:
1 Steve Brooker (51.35%)
2 John Spicer (16.22%)
3 James O'Connor (13.51%)
Thanks to everyone who voted - the next voting will begin after Saturday's home game against Plymouth Argyle.

December 2, 2008

Forte turns down international call-up

After making a sensational debut for Notts County, Jonathan Forte has turned down a chance to play international football for Barbados to stay at Notts County after signing on loan from Scunthorpe United in mid-November. Forte has played twice for Barbados, and has been selected in their squad for three matches in the Caribbean Cup, but preferred to stay in England. He had moved to Notts County after failing to hold down a regular place in Scunthorpe's team this season, although it seems that the loan move is only to enable him to gain first team match practice. Comments from Scunthorpe suggest that Forte will return to Glanford Park for the Christmas period.
Forte took part in 70 first team games whilst at Rovers in three loan spells between 2005 and 2007, during which time he scored 13 goals.

December 2, 2008

Mulligan in international action

Former Doncaster Rovers defender David Mulligan may be having a variable season for Wellington Phoenix, but he is still rated highly enough to be selected for their recent World Cup qualifying game against Fiji. With New Zealand already qualifying for the next stage in the Oceania qualifying group, New Zealand manager Ricki Herbert took the opportunity to name a much changed squad, with no overseas players being selected for the game on November 19th. The final group match should have been played on 13th October, but was postponed when the New Zealand government refused entry to a Fiji player.
With all the changes, New Zealand's situation was not helped when goalkeeper Glen Moss was sent off, which contributed to their 2-0 defeat. However, it was their first defeat of the tournament, and New Zealand go through to the next stage, where they play the fifth placed team from the Asian Confederation in the next round of the qualifying competition, with the winners going forward to the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
The New Zealand squad for the game was:
Forwards - Greg Draper (Wellington Phoenix), Costa Barbarouses (Wellington Phoenix), Kris Bright (Kristiansund Ballklubb).
Midfielders - Leo Bertos (Wellington Phoenix), Cole Peverley (Hawke's Bay United), Jeremy Christie (Wellington Phoenix), Allan Pearce (Waitakere United), Jeff Campbell (Waitakere United), Jeremy Brockie (Team Wellington).
Defenders - David Mulligan (Wellington Phoenix), Aaron Scott (Waitakere United), Ben Sigmund (Wellington Phoenix), Steven Old (unattached), James Pritchett (Auckland City).
Goalkeepers - Glen Moss (Wellington Phoenix), Jacob Spoonley (Auckland City).

December 1, 2008

Martis injury

On-loan defender Shelton Martis was subsituted on Saturday after suffering a hamstring injury which forced his substitution by Sam Hird just before half time. The news came on the same weekend that Rovers confirmed that they had secured a one month extension to Martis' loan from West Bromwich Albion.
Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll said: "The indication from John Dickens is that he's torn his hamstring, which is very unfortunate. We've extended his loan from West Brom and then he gets an injury. He'll get it scanned on Monday and we'll see the extent of the injury afterwards."

December 1, 2008

Offing set for longer Accies stay

Following his goal for Hamilton Academical on Saturday which gave his side a 1-0 home win over Kilmarnock, which lifted the club off the bottom of the Scottish Premier League, news has emerged that he is about to be offered a two year extension to his contract. After a slow start to the season following last term's prolific campaign, Offiong has now scored for three matches in a row, including one against Celtic a couple of weeks ago.
Hamilton boss Billy Reid said: "Richard is an important member of our team and, like all our good players, we want him to stay at Hamilton and help us achieve our aims. In recent weeks Richard's confidence has been boosted by his goals against Celtic and Dundee United. But he is the one player we are still talking to with regards to a new deal and to that extent we have offered him a new two-year extension. I don't have anything to do with contracts or personal terms as I leave all of that to the chairman, but we are confident Richard will commit. Most of our players are already on two-year deals so we don't have a lot of negotiating to do with players over the next few months and that is great."
"Goals are hard at this level but his confidence is up because he has proved in recent weeks he can do it in the SPL. He's an important member of our team and like all our good players I want him to stay at Hamilton and help us achieve all our aims."

December 1, 2008

Youth team make cup exit

Doncaster Rovers bowed out of the FA Youth Cup on Friday evening when they went down to a 2-0 defeat at Bolton Wanderers in front of a crowd of 876. After an even start, Bolton went in front in the 25th minute when Rovers defender Ashley Towler fouled Michael O'Halloran, with Stokes scoring from the spot. The second goal came late on in the game when Rovers were pushing forward in search of the equaliser, with Mooy netting from a cross in injury time.
Bolton: Brocklehurst, Riley, Carlisle, Eckersley, Stokes (Bennett 77), McDonald, McGeechan (Campbell 65), Blakeman, O'Halloran, Mooy, Ward. Substitutes: Lynch, Spencer, Michail.
Doncaster: Ward, Towler, Conkleton, Nedder, Martin, Hall, Stirland (Fisher 79), Clarke, Moxam (Moore 63), Henderson, Kasiama (Bibby 77). Substitiutes: Shepherd, Biggs.

December 1, 2008

Beardsley returns to Harriers

Ex-Rovers striker Chris Beardsley has joined Kidderminster Harriers on loan from Kettering Town on a one-month deal. The move marks his return to Kidderminster, where he first arrived in the 2004/05 seson, and is hoped to boost the Harriers' firepower during the busy Christmas period.
Boss Mark Yates, another former Rovers player, said of the move: "I've known Chris for a while and he'll bring us good competition for places ahead of what is a very busy period. He's a good forward, he can hold the ball up well and he knows how to score goals. It leaves us with all bases covered and we're delighted to have him on board."