February 28, 2009

Rovers 2 Derby 1

Rovers moved above Derby County in the league table yesterday evening after coming back from a goal behind to win, thanks to second half goals from Paul Heffernan and Mark Wilson. With the referee producing an erratic display which saw the Rovers fans confused and angry with some of the decisions, it proves the self-belief amongst the Rovers squad, who equalised just six minutes after a superb free kick from Robbie Savage put Derby ahead - and Rovers fans were uncertain as to exactly why the free kick was given.
Rovers could have gone behind in the first half when a looping header by Chris Porter hit the crossbar, with Neil Sullivan beaten. But on the whole, Rovers spent more time camped in the Derby half than on the defensive, and the first half finished goalless.
Derby opened the scoring five minutes after the break before Paul Heffernan equalised with a a superby guided header which evaded a diving goalkeeper by his left-hand post. Rovers took the lead in the 71st minute when a corner by Brian Stock was cleared as far as Mark Wilson, who took a swing at the ball from 30 yards out. Whilst he did not make a fully clean contact with the ball, it was still out of the reach of a diving Derby goalkeeper. Rovers still had time to have a good shout for a penalty turned down after Paul Heffernan was clearly pushed in the back in front of the South Stand, but in the end, that did not matter as Rovers comfortably held on for another three valuable points.
Rovers finished the day ten points ahead of the relegation places and ten points behind the play-offs in 15th plce. Maybe now is the time to start looking upwards rather than over our shoulders?

February 28, 2009

What the managers said

Following Rovers' victory at the Keepmoat Stadium last night, the managers were asked for their comments in interviews with the press.
Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll said: "We took some positives from that (Swansea defeat) in a sense, we looked at Swansea and some of the things that they did, we thought we could do better in our game. I thought we did that today, we were nice and patient, moved it from side to side - which Swansea do very well and on a difficult pitch - against a team that's come here to stifle the game. I thought our application was excellent. Even when we went a goal down, nobody's heads dropped, we just got on with it and cranked up the pressure a little bit, got a goal back that I thought we deserved anyway and Mark Wilson scored the winner, and I'm so pleased for him because he's the sort of player that every club needs."
He added: "In training on Thursday he had many opportunities to score and blasted every one of them over the bar so I was pleased he took the responsibility. It just bounced nicely for him and I'm pleased for him and I think you can see from the celebrations of the rest of the players they are pleased for him as well."
"We've never been a team that's lacked confidence or belief," said O'Driscoll, adding. "If we take our foot off the pedal in this division then we'll fall back. We don't want to do that. We want to push on and see how far we can go."
Derby boss, Nigel Clough, said: "It's disappointing to go 1-0 up with 45 minutes to go and not get a minimum of a point, but we conceded two poor goals from our point of view. You get the lead and think, 'hang onto it for five or 10 and frustrate them', but we weren't able to do that due to defensive errors. It's a harmless shot and Stephen misjudged the bounce, it's 25 yards or 30 yards out and nine times out of 10 he would have saved it. We were below par but having got the lead with an outstanding free-kick we were entitled to hang on to it a little bit better than we did."

February 28, 2009

Lewis to start up front

Doncaster Rovers striker Lewis Guy, on loan at Hartlepool United, looks likely to start up front this afternoon after playing his two matches for Pools on the right wing. A striker shortage means that Chris Turner has to decide between Guy, Liam Henderson and David Foley for his striking options after Daniel Nardiello was the latest to face a spell on the sidelines after picking up a groin injury in their midweek win at Swindon Town.

February 28, 2009

Sandwith signs for Oxford

Former Doncaster Rovers defender Kevin Sandwith has signed for Blue Square Premier club Oxford United on a contract until the end of the season. He makes the move after, along with the rest of the Weymouth squad, becoming a free agent due to not being paid by the club in 2009. The 30-year old defender is due to make his debut in United's televised home game against Torquay United this evening, the second time in two weeks that Sandwith will face Torquay - Weymouth won 2-0 at Plainmoor in the last match played by their first team squad. Last Saturday saw Weymouth's youth team take on Rushden & Diamonds. They lost 9-0, and York City must be fancying their chances today as it is likely that the Weymouth team will comprise young players again.
In moving to Oxford, Sandwith joins up with boss Chris Wilder for a second time. He previously worked with Wilder at Halifax Town, but has also played for Carlisle United, Telford United, Lincoln City, Macclesfield Town and Chester City.

February 27, 2009

Rovers v Derby

Despite fears that he may be out for a couple of weeks, it looks as though James Coppinger will be fit to play in this evening's home game against Derby County. James was given the all clear from the Rovers doctor earlier this week, although his participation will depend on how he fares once he resumes training. It had been anticipated that he would be absent for up to two weeks after suffering from concussion following a collision with a Swansea City player just before half time of last Saturday's game. It also looks likely that Matt Mills will be fit to resume defensive duties after taking part in training this week, meaning that the only absence this evening will be the suspended Richie Wellens.
Derby County will be without Nacer Barazite (dislocated shoulder), but they expect Luke Varney, Chris Porter, Gary Teale and Jay McEveley to be available after absences due to injury. However, Derby boss Nigel Clough is doubtful that Miles Addison will be fit for their trip to the Keepmoat Stadium. Addison picked up a foot injury in their home win over Blackpool, and it looks likely that the player will face a lengthy spell on the sidelines. Defender Lewin Nyatanga is expected to be fit after suffering a knock on the nose last Saturday, which also caused him to suffer from double vision.

February 27, 2009

Clough praises Rovers

Derby boss Nigel Clough believes that Doncaster Rovers are starting to get the results their form deserves after they refused to change their playing style despite results going against them earlier in the season.
He said: "Before their defeat at Swansea - which is no disgrace - they'd won seven out of eight, so they really have picked up in the last couple of months and I think when you lose one you are very keen to get back to winning ways, so they're probably the form team at the moment in the league. It also shows what the teams around the bottom are capable of - the teams in the bottom six will all be looking at the example set by Doncaster and saying 'well, if they can do it, then we can'. I think the first six months of the season they were exceptionally unlucky not to get more points and then if you keep doing those things, it is very brave to keep going and doing those things, and they have got their rewards for it. They have not changed their style and are now picking up the victories their performances deserved earlier in the season."

February 27, 2009

Uncertaintly over Brooker

Sean O'Driscoll is waiting for specialist advice before he will know whether new striker Steve Brooker will be available to play this season. Brooker is suffering from an ankle problem which requires an operation, but Rovers are waiting to find out whether that can wait until the end of the season, or whether it may cause further damage if he resumes playing.
O'Driscoll said: "It's not a major problem and ideally we would like to wait and have it done in the summer. We are waiting for a report at the moment and it depends on the medical advice as to which way we go. If there is any risk at all then he will have it done now but, if not, then he is fit enough to go straight into the squad. He has spent more time in the gym than anybody recently and all he lacks is games."

February 27, 2009

All-ticket for Derby fans

Whilst Doncaster Rovers fans will be able to buy tickets right up to the kick-off of this evening's game, there will be no tickets on sale for Derby County fans. County have completely sold out their 3,200 ticket allocation for their first trip to the Keepmoat Stadium, and total tickets sold mean that there will be a crowd of well over 11,000 for this evening's game.

February 27, 2009

Arsenal 5 Rovers Belles 0

Arsenal Ladies proved to be one step too far in the Doncaster Rovers Belles revival story of this season when the London club came out as clear winners in last night's League Cup final played at Scunthorpe United's ground. A hat-trick by Kelly Smith set Arsenal on the way to their victory - the seventh time that they have won the trophy, which marked Smith's last appearance for the club before flying to Americ to join the Boston Breakers.
Rovers Belles boss John Buckley was unhappy, to say the least, when refere Steve Rowntree failed to book a number of players after a succession of fouls in the first half, especially Arsenal left back Niamh Fahey, who escaped punishment for a high, cynical foul on Rachel Williams, which left Doncaster's lone striker limping for the rest of the match with a gashed leg.

February 27, 2009

Bayo's ban extended

Former Rovers striker Adebayo Akinfenwa will have to sit out four matches due to suspension after the FA rejected Northampton Town's appeal against a red card dished out by referee Trevor Kettle in last Saturday's game against Brighton & Hove Albion. Not only did the FA reject the appeal, but they increased the usual three match ban to four after deeming the Cobblers' appeal as "frivolous". Northampton have stated their disappointment with the decision, and have stated: "As a club, we have a proud record of respect for referees and have not contested a red card for some considerable time. Given the extra game ban, the club will have to carefully consider whether the appeals system is worth considering for future incidents."
Both clubs appealed against the decision, which also saw Brighton's Adam Virgo dismissed. Northampton may feel harshly dealt with, but certainly not as much as Brighton, who found out that Virgo's ban was extended from three matches to five after they said the club's appeal had "no prospect of success".

February 27, 2009

Jamie wins cup match for Rangers

Former Doncaster Rovers striker Jamie Barnwell scored the winning goal for Hall Road Rangers during extra time of their NCE League Cup clash against Pontefract Collieries during the week. Rangers' victory came up against a side short of players, with Pontefract only able to muster enough players to put out a first eleven - their lack of substitutes ultimately proved costly as the match went to extra time after the full time was reached with the scores locked at 2-2. It was a bad week for Pontefract - their promotion challenge in NCE League Division One was dented last Saturday when they lost 1-0 to lowly Rossington Main.

February 26, 2009

The final countdown

Doncaster Rovers Belles will face Arsenal in the FA Tesco Women's Premier League Cup this evening as they bid to bring the trophy back to the Keepmoat Stadium. The match takes place at Glanford Park, Scunthorpe, with a 7pm kick-off. Tickets cost £5 for adults and £2.50 for children and concessions, and are available from the Scunthorpe United ticket office today.
With the Rovers Belles facing closure earlier in the season due to financial troubles, their progress to the final is a great achievement, which the club hope will be the springboard to further success.
Former England international Vicky Exley will be making her sixth appearance in a "final" with Doncaster Rovers Belles this evening, and said: "In the lead up to The Final all the girls have been buzzing around the training ground and feeling confident. We've had a really good season so far and if we win The Cup, it will be fantastic. I haven't won any of The Finals that I've played in with Donny and that is definitely my motivation; I want to win a trophy with this club."

February 26, 2009

FA investigate claims

The Football Association have confirmed that they are investigaing two incidents which took place during last Saturday's Swansea v Rovers match at the Liberty Stadium. The first is the alleged spitting incident against Richie Wellens by Leon Britton; Rovers yesterday issued a statement backing the player and calling the allegations "unfounded".
The second incident being investigated is the allegation that Swansea defender Angel Rangel threw a puch during the match. The FA have confirmed the alleged incidents were not caught on camera or spotted by referee Scott Mathieson, so the investigation will take longer than the FA's 48-hour 'Fasttrack' procedure.
The FA's compliance unit will talk to both Britton and Wellens as well as seek the observations of the other players and members of the coaching staff that claim they witnessed the incident.

February 26, 2009

Cardiff tickets go on sale

Tickets for next Saturday's away game at Cardiff City have now been received at the Keepmoat Stadium ticket office. The Rovers allocation comprises 580 seated tickets and 500 terracing tickets - however, please note that only seated tickets will be sold on-line.
Tickets are now on sale to season ticket holders and membership holders, with any remaining tickets going on general sale on Monday, 2nd March.
Please note that this is an all-ticket match, and no tickets will be on sale on the day of the match. Should Cardiff City decide to sell tickets on the day, the adult ticket prices will increase by £2.
Ticket prices are as follows:
Allocated seating (John Smiths Stand):
Adults: £24
Senior Citizens (60+)/ 16 yrs & under/Students (NUS card required): £15
Ambulant Disabled & carer/Wheelchair Disabled & carer: £18 (limited availability, please enquire for details - concessions are also available)
Terracing (John Smiths Stand):
Adults: £22
Senior Citizens (60+)/16 yrs & under/Students (NUS card required): £15

February 26, 2009

Match offiicals v Derby County

The match officials for tomorrow evening's home game against Derby County have been confirmed as:
Referee: R J Booth
Assistant referees: A H Greenwood and W E Grunnill
Fourth Official: A R Holmes

February 26, 2009

Penney's promotion hopes dashed

Dave Penney's hopes that Darlington could be promoted from League Two this season look likely to be dashed with yesterday's news that Darlington have been put into administration. Their chairman, George Houghton, claims that the club have been losing £54,000 a week and are currently £4 million in debt and the recent global recession have left him with little option but to put the club into administration.
This option means that Darlington have had ten points deducted by the Football League - they are currently in 7th place with 51 points, but the ten point deduction will take them down to 12th. Whilst the ten points deficit on the play-off places can be made up, they only have 16 matches left to play this season, making it a daunting prospect, especially since administrators tend to cut costs, meaning that Penney faces the prospect that players may have to leave.
The situation is not helped since Ricky Ravenhill begins a three match supsension tomorrow after being sent off last weekend, and with on-loan striker Liam Hatch injured after being carried off in Darlingtons' 2-1 home defeat against Rochdale, any promotion bid now seems to hang by a thread.

February 26, 2009

Derby ticket update

The Keepmoat Stadium website states that 11,476 tickets for tomorrow's home game against Derby County have now been sold, meaning that with on the day sales, attendance should again be approaching a full capacity. Tickets will be on sale at the ticket office until the matches kick-off.

February 25, 2009

Rovers play Spireites

Doncaster Rovers played out a 2-2 draw in a practice game against Chesterfield at the Cantley Park training ground yesterday. As is the trend, the game was played in three thirty minute sections, to enable both managers to rotate the players regularly.
Rovers opened the scoring through Darren Byfield; the second Rovers goal came in the third period of the match, when Paul Heffernan netted.
No further details of players used by Rovers are available.

February 25, 2009

Ricky sees red

Former Rovers midfielder Ricky Ravenhill was sent off during Darlington's home defeat against Rochdale last night. He was shown a straight red card for a two-footed tackle on Scott Wiseman in the 63rd minute on what was a bad night for Dave Penney's men. They also had striker Liam Hatch stretchered off as well as seeing their automatic promotion chances dented.
In a bad night for former Rovers players, Adebayo Akinfenwa also was sent off after being involved in a "tangle" with Brighton's Adam Virgo on the half way line. The match ended 1-1.
On the brighter side, ex-Rovers defender Simon Weaver scored for Ilkeston Town in their 2-2 draw against Worksop Town in the UniBond Premier Division at the weekend.

February 25, 2009

Dons move Easter game

With Doncaster Rovers and the Dons both having home games scheduled for 3pm on Easter Monday, something had to give. As it turns out, the Dons have agreed to move their home game against Widnes, which will now kick off at 7pm on the same afternoon, meaning the groundsmen have a challenge to have the pitch ready for Rovers' home game against Preston North End, which starts at 3pm, then change the pitch markings and posts ready for the rugby match, which starts only two hours after the end of the Rovers game.
Dons CEO Dave Marshall said: "We've been aware of the clash since the fixtures were released and have been looking for solutions. We are really keen not to lose our home Easter fixture and this seems to be the best way forward. Operations wise we've had to co-ordinate things with both the stadium and the Rovers who have both been very helpful."

February 25, 2009

Charlton ticket info

Tickets for the away game against Charlton Athletic, which is to be played next Tuesday, 3rd March, are now on sale from the ticket office at the Keepmoat Stadium.
An allocation of 1,174 has been received, with the Keepmoat Stadium website showing that 273 have been sold.
Ticktts are now on general sale at the following prices:
Adults: £20
Senior Citizens (60+), 18-21s: £10
Under-17s: £5
Ambulant/wheelchair disabled & carer: £10

February 25, 2009

Voting results

The result of the "Man of the Match" for Saturday's away game at Swansea City was not in doubt from the earliest votes received, with Jos van Nieuwstadt being the clear winner, gaining over half of the votes cast. With six Rovers players receiving nominations, those receiving the most votes were:
1 Jos van Nieuwstadt (52.94%)
2 James Coppinger (23.53%)
3 Richie Wellens (11.76%)
Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote. The next voting will open after Friday evening's home game against Derby County.

February 24, 2009

Greer stays on for more

Doncaster Rovers defender Gordon Greer has had his loan spell at Swindon Town extended by a further two months, and he will now stay at the County Ground until their penultimate game of the season against Bristol Rovers on 25th April. The 28-year old has been a consistent performer for Danny Wilson's side since joining in January and has made four league starts during the month.
Prior to his move to Swindon, Gordon had missed most of the last twelve months through injury, but his move out on loan gives him the opportunity to gain some much needed match practice.

February 24, 2009

Wellens denies accusation

Rovers midfielder Richie Wellens has denied that he spat at Swansea's Leon Britton during Saturday's match at the Liberty Stadium. In a statement, Wellens said: "I am disappointed that Leon Britton has come out in the newspapers and on the web with the accusation that I spat in his face, which he quite clearly later says was not a face to face spit. He also called me a coward, which I found distasteful; as in 10 years and over 400 games I have never been called that. I did not spit in his face, but as usual I was clearing my throat and did not aim anything his way. No one, including their manager, can say they saw me spit in his face and all there had been was the usual pushing and shoving, which usually stays on the field. The only thing I regret was arguing with their manager Roberto Martinez as I came off when I got the red card. I should have ignored everything and walked straight off and for that I apologise."
Whilst Rovers have stated that they now consider the matter close, the BBC's website have reported that the FA are investigating the allegations. Their compliance unit will talk to both Britton and Wellens as well as seek the observations of the other players and members of the coaching staff that claim they witnessed the incident.
Wellens will be suspended for Friday's game against Derby County after being sent off for a second bookable offence five minutes from the end of the Swansea game.

February 24, 2009

Hull City 3 Rovers Youth Team 0

The Rovers' youth team went down to a 3-0 defeat against Hull City, who had the advantage of a strong wind in the first half as Rovers spent most of the half defending, although the home side only had a 1-0 lead to show for it. Rovers started the second half in a more positive fashion, forcing two early corners, but despite pressure on the home defence, they went further behind when Hull counter-attacked to score a 63rd minute goal, with a third coming just four minutes later.
The result sees Rovers in 10th place in the Puma Youth Alliance North East Conference, with 13 points from 15 games played.
Rovers: Ward, Towler, Conkleton, Clark (Thompson, 66), Fisher, Nodder, Shepherd (Blake, 78), Hall, Moore, Moxam, Henderson
Unused substitutes: Stirland, Fenney, Biggs

February 24, 2009

Coaches to Charlton

The Supporters Club are running coaches to the away game at Charlton on 3rd March.
They will leave Retford at 1.30pm, Harworth Pit Gates 1.35pm, Bawtry 1.45pm, Rossington Styrrup 1.45pm, Hare & Tortoise 1.50pm, Doncaster Royal Infirmary 2.00pm and Keepmoat Stadium Car Park 1 at 2.15pm.
Fares are:
Members £20, OAP's £18, U16's £16
Non-Members £22, OAP's £20, U16's £18
To book a place, please contact Len South (01302 817347) or Paul Mayfield (01427 880154 or 077404 53066).

January 8, 2008

Leeds match

Duane Darby, who threw his hat into the ring as part of a joint application for the managerial vacancy at Rushden & Diamonds with Paul Hall, is continuing his playing career by moving from Stourport Swifts to Hednesford Town, who are currently third in the UniBond Premier Division.
Darby has had a long list of clubs since moving into non-league football around five years ago, and played for Doncaster Rovers in the 1995/96 season before moving on to Hull City, Notts County and Rushden & Diamonds.

February 23, 2009

Wellens banned for Friday

Rovers midfielder Richie Wellens will serve a one match ban for being sent off during Saturday's away game at Swansea City, and will miss Friday evening's home game against Derby County. However, since by serving that suspension means that Wellens will not play before the end of February, it means that he will not face the prospect of facing a further suspension as he cannot now reach five bookings before the cut-off date of the end of February.
FA regulations state that any player booked five times during the season, but after the end of February, will be "warned as to his future conduct", but not suspended. A player who receives ten bookings between the start of the season and the second Sunday of April will be automatically suspended for two matches, but as previously, if that is attained after the cut-off date, they will only receive a warning.
The full explanation of the regulations can be found on the FA's website by clicking on the logo to the left.

February 23, 2009

Coppinger on the mend

Rovers midfielder James Coppinger has been discharged from hospital and is back at home in Doncaster following his short stay in a Swansea hospital after being concussed shortly before the end of the first half. Coppinger was carried off the pitch on a stretcher and was taken to hospital as a precaution after being assessed by Rovers and Swansea medical staff, and had scans before being released in time to travel back to Doncaster on the team coach with the rest of the squad. At this stage it is too early to say how long Coppinger will be out of the side for, but he looks certain to miss Friday's game against Derby County, which will probably give Dean Shiels a chance to make his first Rovers start.

February 23, 2009

Nelly off the mark

Ex-Rovers winger Craig Nelthorpe scored his first goal for Oxford United on Saturday to give them a narrow win over Mansfield Town, and keeps alive their chances of reaching the play-offs.
Also scoring a goal on Saturday was Rovers' on-loan striker Waide Fairhurst, who scored his second goal in two games on loan for Solihull Moors in their 2-2 draw against Fleetwood Town.

February 23, 2009

Rovers Belles in final

Doncaster Rovers Belles will play in their first FA Tesco Women's Premier League Cup Final on Thursday of this week as they face Arsenal at Glanford Park, Scunthorpe. Arsenal are playing their fifth successive League Cup final, but Rovers Belles will be looking to defeat the favourites to land their first silverware of the season. Tickets for the match are now on sale from Glanford Park, and cost £5 for adults and £2.50 for children. Group discounts are available. If you want to buy a ticket, you can buy them in advance or on the evening of the game. The ticket booking number is 0871 221 1899, or you can book on-line at www.scunthorpe-united.co.uk
The match is scheduled to begin at 7pm.
The Rovers Supporters Club are running a coach to the match, leaving the Keepmoat Stadium at about 5.45pm. To book a place on the coach, please ring Paul Mayfield on 0794 172 7769.

February 22, 2009

Swansea 3 Rovers 1

Doncaster Rovers' long unbeaten league run came to an end yesterday when they went down 3-1 at the Liberty Stadium. Rovers were dealt a setback before the game started when Matt Mills failed a fitness test, with Jos van Nieuwstadt replacing him in central defence. Dean Shiels was named on the substitutes' bench for the first time since he joined Rovers at the end of January.
Rovers drew first blood in the 11th minute when a Richie Wellens shot was blocked; James Coppinger was on hand to force the ball home from close range. This setback spurred the home side onto the attack and after one shout for a penalty was turned down, they were successful in their appeals for a spot kick in the 27th minute. James O'Connor was judged to have pushed Alan Tate in the penalty area, and Jason Scotland stepped up to fire his 18th goal of the season from the spot. As the first half headed towards a close, Rovers were hanging on at times, but they were dealt a massive blow in the final minute of the half when James Coppinger was carried off after receiving a head injury which, at the time, was causing some concern. Jason Price came on as his replacement for the last few seconds of the first period.
When it looked as though Rovers may survive to take a point, Swansea scored their second goal in 70th minute, with Scotland laying the ball back for Gomez to score. When it looked as if the afternoon couldn't get any worse for Rovers, it did. Influential midfielder Richie Wellens received a second yellow card when he brought down Gomez and was walking off the pitch before he saw the red card. A man short, and Rovers looked unlikely to draw level against a Swansea side who had the upper hand. The home side had enough time to score a third goal in the final minute of the game when some poor marking allowed Gomez to head home unchallenged from a cross by Jason Scotland.
Despite the setback, Rovers finished the day in 16th place, seven points ahead of the relegation places.

February 22, 2009

What the managers said:

The two team managers spoke after yesterday's incident packed match at the Liberty Stadium, with James Coppinger's injury and Richie Wellens' sending off mentioned.
Rovers manager Sean O'Driscoll said: "I can't quite make out whether it was a difficult game for [the referee] or whether he over-reacted because he was certainly quick with the yellow cards. Two of them mean a red so there is little to say about Wellens being sent off although his second booking was a little soft. I am a little disappointed at cries of 'cheat' when James Coppinger was injured. The lad is now in hospital having a brain scan after suffering possible concussion. With regards to the football it was a fair result and Swansea are probably equipped better than most to come up a division and do well. You have to stamp some authority on the game right at the beginning but we didn't start very well despite scoring a goal. We ended up struggling to close them down. It was difficult for us as this is a hard place to come."
Swansea manager Roberto Martinez: "It was the hardest game we've had this season. I know we've been very stylish at times and probably been more stylish, but in terms of what was needed after the Watford performance was a reaction and the ingredients that were missing against Watford, we had. We went 1-0 down and were playing a side that I felt is the most confident side we have played at home. To come back and show that character and to score three fantastic goals and be worthy winners, that's without a doubt the best performance of the season."

February 22, 2009

Coppinger injury concern

Rovers striker James Coppinger was taken to hospital yesterday afternoon after being carried off with a head injury in the final minute of the first half after a collision with Albert Serran, which caused an eight minute delay as he was treated on the pitch by the Rovers trainer, assisted by the stadium medical staff. He was then taken off the pitch on a stretcher before being taken to hospital for a brain scan and was thought to be suffering from concussion. It looks as though Jamie, who has been enjoying a good run of form in recent weeks, is certain to miss the next two weeks, meaning he will miss Friday's home game against Derby County and probably the away games at Cardiff City and Charlton Athletic.

February 22, 2009

Wellens spitting row mars Rovers defeat

Accusations of spitting against Richie Wellens by Swansea boss Roberto Martinez marred the headlines of yesterday's match at the Liberty Stadium. Whilst Wellens' sending off was for a second bookable offence after fouling Gomez, the talk after the game was of an incident between Wellens and Swans' midfielder Leon Britton.
Swans boss Roberto Martinez said: "To spit in someone's face is just not acceptable,incidents like that should never happen in football matches. When you step over the line, the football authorities should step in and look at players' records. Sean O'Driscoll is a gentleman and their squad of players are winners in the right way. What Wellens did does not represent their football club in the right manner.''
Britton, talking of the incident, said: “Wellens thought I'd stamped on him. I told him if I did I didn't mean to. He said he was going to punch me. I wish he had, because he spat in my face instead. He was very clever; he spat out of the side of his mouth so the referee didn't see it. It's the first time something like this has happened to me. It's a disgusting thing to do, especially from a fellow pro. I'm just glad I could rise above it. We came away with the three points and he eventually got sent-off.”
Britton then said that he had received an apology from Rovers skipper Brian Stock over the incident, whilst Sean O'Driscoll backed his player, saying: "If you ask Richie Wellens he'll say he didn't do anything. I certainly didn't see anything. I've got a player in hospital having a brain scan and you've got their right-back (Angel Rangel) almost throwing a punch at Richie, so does he deserve to be sent off?''

February 22, 2009

Goals review

We begin this weekend's review of former Rovers players scoring goals in League One, where ex-loan player Michael Timlin scored Swindon Town's first goal as they overcame a 2-0 half time deficit to win 4-2 against promotion chasing Scunthorpe United. Timlin played for Rovers on loan from Fulham during the 2005/06 season, playing three games.
In Scotland, Colin Cramb scored in the last minute for East Stirling in their 2-0 win at Montrose, a win which keeps them in third place in the Scottish Third Division.
In Wales, Neil Roberts scored twice for Rhyl in their 3-2 win at Gap Connah's Quay, which keeps Rhyl at the top of the Welsh Premier Division, a point ahead of Llanelli with a game in hand.
We now drop into the UniBond League Division One South, where Ben Saunders scored in the second minute of injury time for Shepshed Dynamo in their game against Grantham Town. It looked like being the winner, but there was still time for an equalising goal by the Gingerbreads.
The most remarkable incident of yesterday's football results is left until the end of our review. In an amazing game at Weymouth, Rushden & Diamonds clocked up a stunning 9-0 victory, with ex-Rovers youth team striker Michael Rankine scoring two of their goals before being substituted after an hour's play. Weymouth are in serious financial trouble and facing administration or liquidation, and with their first team players unpaid since the turn of the year, and unwilling to play after the club could not pay their private medical insurance, they had to put their youth team out against Rushden.
At least they appear to have a manager next week - previously former Rovers assistant manager Alan Lewer had indicated that he would leave the club after yesterday's match, but it now looks as though he may stay on in the short term.
Amongst the Weymouth players not to turn out yesterday was ex-Rovers defender Kevin Sandwith, who had recently been appointed as captain.
Despite their financial troubles, Weymouth are still comfortably positioned in midtable at the moment, with a ten point gap between them and the relegation places in the Blue Square Premier.

February 21, 2009

Swansea v Rovers - change of officials

February 21, 2009

Swansea v Rovers

Doncaster Rovers have doubts over defenders Sam Hird and Matthew Mills ahead of this afternoon's away game at the Liberty Stadium. Hird has a tight hamstring, whilst Matt Mills has been struggling with a groin injury for the last few matches. Both will have fitness tests, with Adam Lockwood and Jos van Nieuwstadt on standby for the central defensive positions should either not make it. Apart from the above possible changes, we expect Sean O'Driscoll to stick by the same players who have done so well in recent matches.
James Hayter made a successful return to playing in a practice match earlier this week, but will not be included for this afternoon's match.
Swansea midfielder Jordi Gomez is doubtful after picking up a hamstring injury in Tuesday's game at Watford, and is rated as only 50/50 to play today. Owain Tudur Jones is also "50/50" and is doutful for this afternoon.
Also missing for Swansea will be Gorka Pintado, Marcos Painter, Ferrie Bodde and Darren Pratley, althoguh Angel Rangel and Mark Gower may return after being rested for the midweek match.

February 21, 2009

Rovers boss wary of Swans' threat

Rovers face a stern test this afternoon as they try to keep their unbeaten league record going against a Swansea City side that are handily placed just outside the play-off places. City will be keen to get back into the winning habit after a shock defeat against relegation-threatened Watford on Tuesday, which ended a long undefeated run of their own.
Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll has praised the way that Swansea play, and have adapted to life in the Championship. The Swans also gained promotion from League One last season, and Rovers will be looking to match last season's result at the Liberty Stadium, where two strikes from Richie Wellens won the game for Rovers.
Of Swansea City, the Rovers boss said: "They put players into the positions that they want to fill, whereas we have inherited or got players in that are able to say that 'these are our strengths' and we can play players where they felt comfortable and play the way that they want to play.”
“As a result, their structure is perhaps a little more rigid than ours, but they do it really, really well. I think that the back line functions, the wide players function, Jason Scotland can hold up the ball and the midfield is as good as anybody's. They are where they are on merit and we've come up across them three or four times now and they have impressed me every time we have played them."
"Last season, we went there and scored a couple of goals and got a bit of luck. But even then, you could see then that they were a side that would develop into a really, really good footballing side. The signs were there and they just progressed on and on and on and Roberto's been able to raid the Spanish market and pick up all the players he felt he could fit into his system.”
“ It's difficult for everybody else, because we haven't got that scouting system. It's difficult to pick up foreigners that you have never heard of or watched them play. I think Roberto will continue to use his contacts and he knows the type of player he wants as well. I've been nothing but impressed with them this season and they are one of the teams that you want to see do well this season."

February 21, 2009

Lester on the mark

Former Rovers loan striker Jack Lester scored his fifteenth goal of the season last night as he fired Chesterfield to a hard earned win against Bournemouth, although victory was only achieved when a second half penalty by Bournemouth was saved . Lester's 37th minute goal sees Chesterfield start today in 12th place in League Two, ten points out of the play-offs.

February 21, 2009

Gregg out for rest of season

February 21, 2009

Darby part of Diamonds' "Dream Team"?

Paul Hall and former Rovers striker Duane Darby are seeking to bring the glory days back to Rushden & Diamonds as a managerial "dream team" following the resignation of Garry Hill recently. The move would mark Darby's first move into coaching and he is happy to play the assistant's role to Hall at Nene Park. Rushden & Diamonds have struggled for the last couple of seasons and are currently just below half way in the Blue Square Premier table.
Hall said of the situation: "Myself and Duane have been talking about this for a while. We want to come back on the coaching staff and I would be in charge. We know it's a long shot. But we think we're ready for it now. I've got all the qualifications and I'm involved as a player-coach at Aspire Midland Alliance side Stratford Town. We've sent our CVs into Diamonds and there's no reason why we can't do the job. Duane and I were at Diamonds during the best times. Now they are struggling and we want to put them back where they were."
Darby is keen to have a chance at football management, saying: "I'm not ready to take charge at the moment but I'd love to go along as part of the staff. My dream has always been to go back to Diamonds and one day that will happen. I'm up for it because I want to get into the full-time game. I have a lot of feelings for this club and it would be a dream come true to go back. A couple of other people have also applied and asked me to join the backroom staff. I still look out for the results. At the moment it's sad and disappointing but hopefully we can get them back where they belong. It's a massive job and I hope whoever gets it can fulfil the huge expectations."

February 20, 2009

Goals review

On loan Rovers striker Waide Fairhurst scored his first goal for Solihull Moors on Tuesday night in their 2-0 win in the Blue Square North game against Workington. Fairhurst beat several defenders before slotting the ball home. The match was only his second for the club, despite being on loan since the end of last month - the recent bad weather has meant several of Moors' games have been postponed. Fairhurst's loan with them lasts until 28th February.
Also on the goal trail in midweek games was former Rovers loan defender Simon Weaver, who scored the equaliser for Ilkeston in their UniBond League Challenge Cup match against Boston United. His goal, against one of his former clubs, came on his debut for Ilkeston to make the score 3-3 - and Ilkeston went through after extra time, coming back from a 3-1 half time deficit.

February 20, 2009

Swansea tickets

It seems that all of the Rovers original allocation of tickets for tomorrow's game at Swansea City have been sold - an additional 100 tickets were due to arrive at the Keepmoat Stadium ticket office today, which are available to those who have pre-booked them. The Keepmoat Stadium's website states that booked tickets can be collected from the Keepmoat Stadium ticket office until 4pm this afternoon, or can be collected from the Liberty Stadium tomorrow. However, the Keepmoat website states that the match is all-ticket and you cannot, therefore, pay on the gate tomorrow, despite there being a clear demand for more tickets following Rovers' recent run of good form.
We understand that the low number of tickets allocated for Rovers fans is due to Rovers advising Swansea a month ago that they would only need 400 tickets for the game, although Swansea advised that more - up to 3,000 - would be available should they be required. However, it seems that it took until yesterday for Rovers to request further tickets!

February 20, 2009

Lewis in Pools loan move

Doncaster Rovers striker Lewis Guy has moved to League One club Hartlepool United on a one month loan. He goes straight into their squad for tomorrow's home game against Leyton Orient. Guy has been allocated the number 28 shirt at Victoria Park.
Lewis was a regular in the Rovers side earlier in the season, scoring in the season's opening game against Derby County, but has had to settle for a place on the bench in recent weeks following the rise in form of fellow striker Paul Heffernan.

February 20, 2009

Kinnear hopes to leave hospital

Former Rovers manager Joe Kinnear, currently manager at Premiership club Newcastle United, is hoping to leave hospital on Sunday following a triple heart bypass operation a week ago today. The 62 year old was admitted to hospital on February 7th for tests, which showed that immediate surgery was required. Kinnear is hoping to be home in time to watch Newcastle's televised match against Everton on Sunday afternoon, although he expects to be off work for at least two months.
He told Newcastle's official website: "I'd really like to thank everyone for all their best wishes while I've been in hospital. I had the operation last Friday and since then it's just been a case of taking it easy. The doctors have told me everything has gone well, I feel okay and I hope to be able to go home on Sunday. I'll be ringing Chris to say good luck to him and the boys for Sunday's game. I'll be glued to the television cheering them on and hopefully the lads can build on the win they had against West Brom and pick up another three points. I know the fans will be right behind the team again on Sunday. I said from day one when I took over that they are the 12th man for us and they have a big role to play for us again as always at the weekend."
We would like to wish Joe all the best for a speedy and full recovery.

February 20, 2009

Ref at Swanzee

February 20, 2009

Voting results

It was a keen contest for the "Man of the match" for Tuesday's home game against Bristol City. With eleven players receiving nominations, those receiving most votes were as follows:
1 Martin Woods (26.32%)
2 Paul Heffernan (21.05%)
3 Matthew Mills (15.79%)
4 Richie Wellens (13.16%)
We would like to thank everyone who took the time to vote - the next vote will open following the away game at Swansea City tomorrow afternoon.

February 19, 2009

Rovers face Bantams in practice match

Bradford City travelled to Cantley Park for a practice match against Doncaster Rovers yesterday afternoon, which gave Sean O'Driscoll the opportunity to give some players who have not featured in the first team recently some match practice. Also included in the Rovers squad were James Hayter and Dean Shiels, making their playing returns after injury. Shiels had a promising start as he hopes to persuade Sean O'Driscoll to include him in the squad for Saturday's away game at Swansea City. Rovers named a strong side for the match, with Jason Price, Darren Byfield and Gareth Taylor also included.
Unfortunately neither club's official web sites have given further details or a match score.

February 19, 2009

Buses to Swansea

February 19, 2009

Team of the Week

Doncaster Rovers had three players named in the "team of the week" for their performance against Sheffield Wednesday last Saturday - but your "man of the match", Richie Wellens, was not one of them! Defenders James Chambers and Matthew Mills, along with striker Paul Heffernan, were the players to be included in the divisional eleven, with the Championship Team of the Week being named as: Adriano Basso (Bristol City), Alex Baptiste (Blackpool), Michael Duff (Burnley), Matthew Mills (Doncaster Rovers), James Chambers (Doncaster Rovers), Wade Elliott (Burnley), Therry Racon (Charlton Athletic), Chris McCann (Burnley), Keith Fahey (Birmingham City), Jon Parkin (Preston North End), Paul Heffernan (Doncaster Rovers).

February 19, 2009

Rovers Belles cruise into the final

Doncaster Rovers Belles cruised into the final of the Sheffield & Hallamshire County Cup on Sunday with an emphatic 10-0 victory over local rivals Keepmoat Ladies. That winning margin was achieved despite the Rovers Belles resting a number of their first team players, but they still proved to be far too strong for their opponents. The win means that they will go into their sixth consecutive County Cup final, where this year they will face Sheffield Wednesday. The Rovers Belles goals came from Nat Shaw (4), Suzanne Davies (3), Lorna Maudslay (2) and Amy Vaughan.

February 18, 2009

Rovers 1 Bristol City 0

Both sides were undefeated since December 20th before last night's match at the Keepmoat Stadium, and a fourth minute goal by ex-Bristol City player Paul Heffernan proved to be enough to keep the Rovers bandwagon rolling along. A superb through ball from Martin Woods put Heffernan clear, and his firm shot went low and to the goalkeeper's right from close range. Rovers again showed the style of recent matches which has seen them gain confidence as they rise up the table.
Rovers named an unchanged starting eleven, and perhaps surprisingly left new signing Dean Shiels out of the squad altogether - presumably he has not fully recovered from the reported ankle injury. Whilst Rovers had to sustain periods of pressure from the visitors, who were clearly not going to give up their unbeaten record without a battle, the number of clear chances that fell to City were few. Goalkeeper Neil Sullivan was called upon to save from Stern John and Gavin Williams, with Williams firing the ball into the net, only to be denied by the linesman's offside flag.
Rovers could have extended their lead in the second half with a powerful header from Mills flashing just wide of the far post from a set-piece.

February 18, 2009

What the managers said

Assistant boss Richard O'Kelly did the honours at the post-match press conference last night following Rovers' victory over Bristol City.
With much improved results, O'Kelly was not really able to put his finger on why fortunes have changed. He said: “We’re not really playing any differently, but we have learnt a bit about the character you need to win games at this level and it was a real team effort tonight.”
On the result, he continued: “We have got to be delighted with this win against such an in-form team. Paul’s goal was a rich reward for him because he is on fire at the moment. His whole game, not just his goals in the last couple of games, has come on leaps and bounds. His movement, his timing of his runs, his general hold up play and linking with other players has been exceptional."
Bristol City boss had no complaints about the result, which saw his side miss out on the opportunity of breaking into the top six in the table. He said: "We didn't start well, we didn't have a good middle and we didn't have a good end either. I thought that they started off quite brightly and we were still on the coach. So I was disappointed with that. Once they scored their goal it's a bit more power to their elbow and we had to change our game slightly to try and get in about them. On the day our boys didn't show the quality they've been showing for the last eight or nine games and that's why we got beat."
“The pitch cut up and we had to go route one but there was not enough quality and we could have had 15 men on the field and not found a way through. It is an opportunity missed but I’m still confident we can finish in the top six.”

February 18, 2009

O'Driscoll celebrates first win

Last night's win over Bristol City marked a significant milestone for Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll - it was the first time he has tasted victory in matches against a Gary Johnson side, with his rival racking up five wins before the Keepmoat Stadium clash. That all changed last night, with the three points lifting Rovers to the giddy heights of 15th in the Championship table. They are now eight points ahead of the relegation places and 15 ahead of bottom club Charlton. Amazingly, they are also only 11 points away from the play-offs. If this undeafeated run keeps going, that deficit may well reduce in the coming weeks, particularly since Swansea are the opponents on Saturday, who will start the game eight points ahead of Rovers.

February 18, 2009

Wilson wants Rovers defender to stay

Swindon Town manager Danny Wilson is hoping that he can persuade Rovers defender Gordon Greer to stay at the club by extending his loan deal from Doncaster Rovers for a further month. Greer, along with fellow loan player Hal Robson-Kanu, has impressed at the County Ground since arriving on loan, with the duo having helped shore up what had been a previously leaky defence. Wilson commented: “We’re still beavering away on the two loan boys to keep them for a longer period, which is quite hopeful at this moment in time. We knew about them and knew what they were like. They’ve done brilliantly, but it’s nothing that we wouldn’t expect."

February 18, 2009

Pittman off the mark

Former Doncaster Rovers striker Jon-Paul Pittman scored his first goal for Wycombe Wanderers last night as League Two promotion contenders Wycombe Wanderers picked up a valuable 1-0 win at Dagenham & Redbridge - a win that keeps them handily in second place in the table. Pittman moved to Wycombe from Crawley Town just ahead of the January transfer deadline.
Mark McCammon scored on his return after a long injury lay-off for Gillingham in their dramatic 4-4 draw at home to midtable Aldershot.

February 18, 2009

Heffernan milestone

February 17, 2009

Rovers v Bristol City

At the second time of asking, Doncaster Rovers will welcome Bristol City to the Keepmoat Stadium. A great match is in prospect, with both sides being currently in good form - Bristol City are unbeaten in eight games, whilst Rovers are unbeaten in ten league games.
Rovers are expected to add Dean Shiels to their squad for today's game after he has recovered from a slight ankle injury. That may give the new signing his Rovers debut - but we would not be surprised if he was to start the game on the bench, as we fully expect Sean O'Driscoll to stick with the players who played so well on Saturday. Sheils' debut has been delayed by a combination of bad weather and Northern Ireland's game against San Marino, both of which prevented him from training with the Rovers squad.
Fellow new signing Steve Brooker is still understood to be a couple of weeks of full fitness.
The biggest doubt Rovers have is over Mark Wilson, who needed six stitches in his shin following a tackle late on in Saturday's game. Matt Mills and Brian Stock will have fitness tests today. Mills picked up a groin injury in the away game at Blackpool, whilst Brian Stock has an ongoing back injury.
Bristol City will check on the fitness of striker Dele Adebola ahead of this evening's game, with Stern John set to return if Adebola fails to make it. City also welcome back John Akinde after a foot injury, but Marvin Elliott and Jamie McCombe (groin and stomach injuries respectively) will definitely miss out.
Former Rovers favourite Michael McIndoe, who hobbled off after an hour of Saturday's match gainst Southampton, is expected to be fit for the game, although he will have a fitness test today.

February 17, 2009

Forte back with County

Fomer Doncaster Rovers striker Jonathan Forte has returned to League Two Notts County for a second loan spell after struggling to feature in Scunthorpe United's first team. Forte impressed during his initial spell at Meadow Lane earlier in the season, scoring four goals in four games, but he was recalled to Scunthorpe over Christmas to cover for injuries. County boss Ian McParland said: "I'm delighted we've struck a deal to bring Jonathan back. He enjoyed his time with us earlier in the season so we were always in with a good chance of getting him back, especially with the good relationship we have with Scunthorpe. The lads and the fans know what Jonathan is all about and we're delighted to have him back with us. His pace will again give us an extra dimension in attack and I'm looking forward to seeing him back in our colours."

February 17, 2009

Ameobi returns to Rovers

Striker Tomi Ameobi has returned to Doncaster Rovers at the end of his loan spell at Mansfield Town. The young striker joined the Stags in January for a month, since when he has made one start and four substitute appearances for them. With the strikers currently on the books at Mansfield now returning to full fitness, boss David Holdsworth has decided that they have enough cover, meaning that they no longer require Ameobi's services. Holdsworth said: "Tomi has done a great job for us but we won't be extending his loan due to Nathan Arnold now being fit and with Scott Gardner also being able to play down the right hand side. He has come from a great club at Doncaster and they are great people there. We would like to thank him for all his efforts and hard work. He has been part of the equation which has led to our unbeaten run."

February 17, 2009

Voting results

February 16, 2009

Latics ask fans to give Jan a lift

As we mentioned yesterday, former Rovers goalkeeper Jan Budtz signed on loan for Oldham Athletic on Saturday morning and made his debut in their 2-1 home win over Northampton Town that afternoon. An intruging story has been published in the Manchester Evening News today - it seems that so much was done in a rush that no thought was given to how Budtz was to get back home to the north-east!
Officials from Oldham Athletic took Jan off the Hartlepool team coach just as they were about to head to London for their away game against MK Dons, and whisked him to Boundary Park just in time to play in the match that afternoon. But with no real plans on how to get him back home, they put an appeal out on their website which said: "Oldham Athletic urgently require the services of a fan returning to the north east after today's game".
As a spokesman said: "We met the Hartlepool team coach and bought him over to sign the forms. We were originally unsure how he was going to get back, so we put the appeal on the website. As it turned out, he got a lift back with a friend. Two fans came forward and if they hadn't I would have taken him myself because I've got friends in Newcastle."

February 16, 2009

Swansea bus information

The Supporters Club are running coaches to Saturday's away game against Swansea City. They will leave Retford at 7.15am, Harworth Pit Gates 7.20am, Bawtry 7.30am, Rossington Styrrup 7.30am, Hare & Tortoise 7.35am, Doncaster Royal Infirmary 7.45am and Keepmoat Stadium Car Park 1 at 8.00am.
Fares are:
Members £25, OAP's £23, U16's £21
Non-Members £27, OAP's £25, U16's £23
To book a place, please contact: Len South on 01302 817347 or Paul Mayfield on either 01427 880154 or 077404 53066.

February 16, 2009

Transfer update

With divisions below the Blue Square leagues not being affected by the 'transfer window' system, we've noticed that former Rovers midfielder Steve Hawes has completed a transfer from Sheffield FC to Stocksbridge Park Steels. Both clubs play in the UniBond Division One (South), but Sheffield have recently been cutting their playing budget due to the general economic climate taking a downturn.
Hawes played eight games for Rovers whilst on loan from Sheffield United during the 1997/98 season. Most of his football career has been at non-league level, although after leaving Rovers, he did go on to play 18 times for Hull City.

February 16, 2009

TV date for Rovers in a busy March schedule

A televised match against promotion chasing Birmingham City means that the home game on Saturday, 14th March will have its kick-off time put back to 5.20pm that afternoon. With Rovers generally enjoying good form when appearing on Sky's live matches, let's hope that the trend continues. With the postponed Reading match being rescheduled for the following Tuesday, Rovers face three home games in eight days:
Tuesday 10th March - v Queens Park Rangers
Saturday 14th March - v Birmingham City
Tuesday 17th March - v Reading
Rovers narrowly lost at St Andrews earlier in the season, so they will be keen to gain revenge on the Blues.

February 16, 2009

Ref for Bristol game