April 15, 2010

"Early Bird" deadline in two weeks

We would like to remind all season ticket holders that the "Early Bird" prices for season tickets for the 2010/11 season only apply until the end of April. Prices will rise from 1st May in all categories apart from the 12/16 and Under-11 age ranges, which remain the same price until the season starts.
Existing season ticket holders will have their seats reserved until 31st May after which their seats will be released for general sale. The latest informaition on the Keepmoat Stadium website indicates that 1,711 season tickets have been sold so far - no doubt there will be a surge in sales as the deadline approaches.
Season tickets are available during normal working hours from the Ticket Office, which are as follows:
Monday to Wednesday: 9am to 4.30pm
Thursday: 9am to 7pm
Friday: 9am to 4pm
Saturday: 10am to 1pm (non-match days)
Sunday: Closed
For your information, we again include full price details of season tickets for the 2010/11 season below:
Until 30th April:

Category	Adult price	Concessions	17-20s	12-16s	U11s
A	£440	£320	£200	£95	£50
B	£380	£265	£150	£95	£50
C*	£320	£200	£150	£95	£50

* only available to renewing season ticket holders
1st May to 31st May:

Category	Adult price	Concessions	17-20s	12-16s	U11s
A	£460	£335	£210	£95	£50
B	£400	£280	£160	£95	£50
C	£400	£280	£160	£95	£50

From 1st June:

Category	Adult price	Concessions	17-20s	12-16s	U11s
A	£480	£350	£220	£95	£50
B	£420	£295	£170	£95	£50
C*	£420	£295	£170	£95	£50

April 15, 2010

Wheater set for move if Boro' aren't promoted

Former Rovers loan defender David Wheater could head a list of up to six senior players to leave Middlesbrough if they fail to win promotion to the Premier League this summer. Boro are currently four points adrift of the play-off places with three games to go, but with two of those games being against top six clubs - they play West Brom on Saturday and Leicester in their last game of the season - their chances of the play-offs seem unlikely.
Boss Gordon Strachan stated yesterday that whilst under no pressure to sell players, he knows that the wage bill has to be cut and has seven or eight players whose contracts expire at the end of the season. Whilst Wheater will still be under contract, Boro are reported to be willing to listen to offers for the defender, which would give funds for Strachan to rebuild the first team squad. Among those players who are out of contract in June are Jeremie Aliadiere, Emanuel Pogatetz and Chris Riggott, with Gary O'Neil also likely to leave due to a clause in his transfer deal which means Boro will have a final £1 million instalment if he plays another game. His omission appears to suggest that Strachan does not intend to keep him for next season, hence the reluctance to pay the extra money.
Wheater and O'Neil are reported to be top of the list for a Riverside exit as they would command a larger transfer fee than any of their team-mates.
Wheater has been linked with a move to Everton with a likely £4 million fee involved. Despite a patch season, Wheater is still highly regarded, but so far he has remained loyal to his hometown club.

April 15, 2010

Tris top scorer

Former Rovers striker Tristram Whitman is currently the top goal-scorer at UniBond club Carlton Town, scoring 17 so far this season. Whitman was particularly prolific in the earlier stages of the season, with Carlton boss Tommy Brookbanks rueing the club's lengthy injury list this season, which has substantially weakened his strike force, particularly since Christmas.
He commented: "I have had seasons where we have won titles and not had many injuries, but this season we have had quite a few and it has had an effect. That's the way it goes. We were team of the month earlier in the season and on a great run. My teams are known for scoring plenty of goals, but we haven't quite hit our straps in the second half of the season. Tristram Whitman is our top scorer with 17 but most of the teams up the top have someone who has got closer to 30."
Whitman scored possibly one of the most important goals in Rovers' recent history when he scored an injury time equaliser against Chester City in the Conference play-off semi-final first leg. That sent Rovers into the second leg all square - that second leg went down to penalties - and then Rovers beat Dagenham & Redbridge in a dramatic final at the Britannia Stadium. And we all know what happened since!

April 15, 2010

Swansea coach information

The Supporters Club are running coaches to the final away game of the season, at Swansea City on Sunday, 2nd May. Please note that there are no trains from Doncaster that will arrive in time for the match - and the only train out of London that gets there in time is the 8.30am from Paddington, which arrives only ten minutes before kick-off!
There is a Park & Ride facility just off Junction 45 of the M4 which may be of interest to those wanting to make their own way to the game.
The Supporters Club coaches leave Retford at 7.30am, Bawtry 7.45am, Harworth Pit Gates 7.35am, Rossington Styrrup 7.45am, Hare & Tortoise 7.50am, Doncaster Royal Infirmary 8.00am and the Keepmoat Stadium Car Park 1 at 8.15am.
The fares are:
Members £24.00 - OAP's £21.00 - U16's £19.00
Non-Members £25.00 - OAP's £23.00 - U16's £21.00
To book a place, telephone Harry Bacon (01302 854626), Len South (01302 817347) or Paul Mayfield (01427 880154 ).
Please also remember that the match is all-ticket and there are no facilities at the Liberty Stadium for selling tickets on match day.

April 14, 2010

Goals check

With most divisions apart from the Championship having a fairly full fixture list yesterday, we have quite a few former Rovers players to report on today.
However, we begin with news of former Rovers striker Richard Offiong, who is currently on loan at Swedish club Ostersunds. He scored two goals in their 7-1 cup win over Umedalens at the weekend.
Back to England - in League One, Sean Thornton scored both goals for Leyton Orient, who recorded a shock 2-1 win at home to leaders Norwich City, with the Canaries lead over second-placed Leeds United now six points with four games to play.
In League Two, Notts County are now top of the table after a 3-1 win over Lincoln City, with ex-Rovers skipper Graeme Lee scoring their second goal last night. Previous leaders Rochdale went down to a surprise defeat against Darlington - despite Darlington's win, they were relegated from the Football League as Cheltenham's draw now means the Quakers cannot escape the bottom two.
Grimsby are likely to follow Darlington into the Blue Square Premier, being seven points adrift of safety. They drew 2-2 against Chesterfield last night, with ex-Rovers loan striker Jack Lester scoring both of Chesterfield's goals.
Dropping down into the UniBond Division One (North), ex-Rover Adriano Rigoglioso scored one of Colwyn Bay's goals in their 3-1 home win over Mossley. The points from last night confirm that Colwyn Bay have qualified for the end of season play-offs - and the points situation means it's highly likely they will finish third, being 14 behind second placed Lancaster City and eight ahead of Skelmersdale in fourth.
Finally, former Rovers youth team striker Liam Soack scored one of Winterton Rangers' goals in their 5-0 away win at Hallam in the Northern Counties East Premier Division. That win lifts Winterton up to fifth place - the battle for that league title is between leaders Bridlington Town (82 pts) and Armthorpe Welfare (79 pts), although Bridlington also have three games in hand.

April 14, 2010

Mixed results for the youth team

Doncaster Rovers' youth team went down to another defeat yesterday afternoon when they were defeated 1-0 at Hartlepool United. A brief report on Hartlepool's site gives little detail on the game, apart from their goal scorer being Steve Smith.
At the weekend, the youth team registered their first win since February 6th when they won 3-1 at Rotherham United. Again, we can't bring you any further details of this game as neither club has yet published a report on the game. Rotherham are rock-bottom of the Youth Alliance with just twelve points from 24 games - Rovers are in 10th place with 29 points.

April 14, 2010

Coach info for Ipswich game

The Supporters Club have issued a reminder of the coach departure times for this weekend's game at Ipswich Town.
For those going on the weekend break, the coach leaves on Friday morning, departing from Retford at 8am, Harworth 8.15am, Rossington Styrrup 8.25am, Punches Hotel 8.35am, Doncaster Royal Infirmary 8.45am and Keepmoat Stadium 9am
For those supporters just going down for the match, the coaches leave on Saturday morning, departing from Retford at 8.30am, Bawtry 8.45am, Harworth Pit Gates 8.35am, Rossington Styrrup 8.45am, Hare & Tortoise 8.50am, Doncaster Royal Infirmary 9.00am and Keepmoat Stadium Car Park 1 at 9.15am.
We presume that the weekend trip is fully booked, but the prices for the day-trip are:
Members £18.00 - OAP's £16.00 - U16's £14.00
Non-Members £20.00 - OAP's £18.00 - U16's £16.00
For enquiries, please contact Harry Bacon (01302 854626), Len South (01302 817347), or Paul Mayfield (01427 880154).

April 14, 2010

Jay unsure of what the future holds in store

Jay Emmanuel-Thomas is enjoying his time at Doncaster Rovers - but doesn't have a clue what is in store for him next season. Jay will return to Arsenal at the end of the season, but in the meantime, he is reaping the benefit of playing regular first team football. He has enjoyed a successful period on loan at Doncaster, scoring four goals in the ten games he has taken part in, including one against West Bromwich Albion on Saturday.
The player did not rule out the possibility of returning to Rovers next season, according to Arsenal's youth team site and added: "I don't know what is going to happen, but I have enjoyed playing regularly and I will have to wait and see."

April 14, 2010

Rovers pair edge towards a return

Brian Stock and Jason Shackell are, as reported a few days ago, still hoping to play for the Rovers' first team before the end of the season. Rovers have now reported that Stock returned to training with the first team squad yesterday, but it is uncertain as to whether he will be fit enough to play in Saturday's away game at Ipswich Town. He has missed several games with a back complaint, his last match being against Queen's Park Rangers on 20th February.
The chances of Jason Shackell playing again appear to be more unlikely, but the player is aiming to be back in time for the last match of the season.
Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll told Sky Sports: "Brian is aiming to get back before the end of the season and Jason has got the target of the last game of the season. We won't push either of the players but both are motivated to get back before the end of the season. Brian is probably nearer but Jason is really determined to play some part in the last game of the season, which is good."
The fact that Shackell is so keen to be back in action for Rovers bodes well for Rovers fans hoping for his permanent transfer in the summer.

April 14, 2010

Billy back to the Blades?

A report in the Sheffield Star suggests that Billy Sharp will be recalled to Sheffield United once his loan at Doncaster Rovers ends, despite reported efforts by Rovers to sign his services on a permanent basis.
In an interview with Sheffield United's Chief Executive, Trevor Birch, told the Star: ""We also have the likes of Paddy Kenny and Billy Sharp to come back into the fold while we are hopeful that Jamie Ward will also be ready for pre-season training."
Sharp has scored 15 goals for Rovers this season and was destined to break through the 20-goal mark before his hopes were dashed by a thigh injury just before Easter.

April 13, 2010

Lewis extends Latics' stay

Doncaster Rovers' striker Lewis Guy is to stay at Oldham Athletic for the rest of the season after having a successful initial month at the club. However, Doncaster have inserted a 24-hour recall clause into the loan arrangement, although with little for Rovers to play for this season, it is unlikely that they would recall the player.
Lewis has struggled to hold down a first team place this season and has had to settle for a place on the substitutes' bench for most matches.
He has scored twice in the last three games, with his goals being an important part of Oldham's attempts to pull clear of the relegation zone.

April 13, 2010

Rovers Belles win again

Doncaster Rovers Belles registered an important 3-0 away win at Sunderland at the weekend to virtually guarantee a top six placed finish in the Women's Premier League. That would be a great achievement after the Rovers Belles endured a poor start to the campaign, but the results have dramatically improved in the second half of the season. Whilst only sixth, the Rovers Belles are just seven points behind leaders Leeds Carnegie, although they do have just three games to play.
The Doncaster goals came from Rachel Williams, Vicky Exley and Sarah Owen.

April 13, 2010

Motherwell sign Kyle

Motherwell have signed goalkeeper Kyle Letheren on a short-term emergency contract after first-choice John Ruddy suffered a thigh injury. Letheren is a free agent after leaving Plymouth Argyle around three months ago and goes into Motherwell's squad for their game against Celtic this evening.
Letheren spent a short time at Doncaster Rovers on loan last season whilst on loan from Barnsley, but did not make a first team appearance. He is a former Wales Under-21 international, and will remain with Motherwell until the end of the season.

April 13, 2010

Coppinger back for the weekend

Rovers midfielder James Coppinger will be back in the squad for Saturday's away game at Ipswich Town after missing the game against West Bromwich Albion with an ankle injury sustained in training on Friday.
Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll commented: "He hurt his ankle in training on Friday. It's nothing serious. If it happened on Tuesday or Wednesday, he would have been okay, but Friday was too much of a short time for him to recover. Hopefully, he will be okay for next week."

April 13, 2010

Heffernan keeps his options open

Striker Paul Heffernan is to wait until the end of the season before deciding where his future may lie. His contract only runs until the end of the season, and it is uncertain whether he will be offered a new deal at Doncaster Rovers, although the Irishman does not totally dismiss the chances of him staying.
He has enjoyed his loan spell down at Bristol Rovers, but was recalled over the Easter weekend when Billy Sharp was ruled out for the rest of the season with a thigh injury.
Heffernan told the Doncaster Star: "It was frustrating sitting on the bench in the first half of the season. That's why I went out on loan to Oldham before Christmas and played a few games. You have to do something, especially when you are out of contract in the summer, because you can quickly be forgotten. I enjoyed myself down there at Bristol and they did well while I was there. We won a lot of games and I managed to score a few goals - which I was delighted about. Confidence plays a big role and the only way as striker that you can be confident is if you are scoring goals."
The Bristol Rovers management have expressed interest in signing him for next season, but as Paul says: "I enjoyed my time down there and everyone made me feel very welcome. They are a good set of lads - though I got a bit of ribbing for having played for City - and it's a good club. It is good to hear that the manager would like me back next season if I'm available in the summer."
"I'm not going to commit myself to anything at this moment in time. I just want to play out the season - and hopefully score a couple of goals - and then speak to whoever is interested - hopefully Doncaster - in the summer, and see what happens."

April 13, 2010

Man of the Match

John Oster was the run-away winner of the latest "Man of the Match" voting for the game against West Bromwich Albion at the weekend, dominating the poll from the very first vote cast. There were nine players who received votes, with those reciving the most being:
1 John Oster (70.83%)
2 Jordon Mutch (8.33%)
3 Shelton Martis (6.25%)
John has featured strongly in many recent votes after impressing many fans in recent matches. The next vote will open following Saturday's away game at Ipswich Town.

April 12, 2010

Ipswich ticket information

Tickets for the penultimate away game of the season are now on sale from the Keepmoat Stadium Ticket Office - but they aren't cheap, with adult prices coming in at a whopping £31, with all prices going up another £2.50 for tickets bought on match day! Tickets are now on general sale at the following prices:
Adults £31
Senior Citizens (60+): £22.00
Students in full-time education*: £22.00
16-19 years: £22.00
Under-16s: £11.00
Ambulant/Wheelchair Disabled: £18.00 (carer free)
* proof required at turnstiles

April 12, 2010

Rovers programme looks for inspiration

Doncaster Rovers are appealing for suggestions on how to improve the match day programme for next season, with the publication struggling to regain credibility after the last two seasons have seen continued negative feedback amongst supporters.
Their appeal says: "We want to hear what you think is good, what is bad or what you feel needs dramatically improving to ensure that next season's match day magazine is one that Doncaster Rovers Football Club can be proud of and one that looks the part of a Championship outfit."
Stung by the negative criticism received last summer when a similar exercise was attempted, Rovers are, this time, appealing for "constructive" feedback.
We could, of course, offer our points of view, but we doubt that they would be welcome!
For anyone wanting to offer their point of view, whether that be a critical analysis or not, they should email webmaster@doncasterroversfc.co.uk.

April 12, 2010

Ryan - financial stability is primary concern

Rovers chairman John Ryan has again stressed that financial responsibility is key to the future of Doncaster Rovers and that a reckless upturn in spending will not happen, as he is keen ot avoid the mistakes made by other clubs who have found themselves in financial trouble when trying to spend their way out of trouble.
Despite a late challenge for the play-off places now being out of reach, Ryan sees no reason why Rovers should not further improve next season, with a further promotion challenge possible without splashing the cash.
He told the Yorkshire Evening Post recently: "We've always been an upwardly mobile club during my tenure over the past 10 years, from the Conference to the Championship, so why not go from the Conference to the Premier League? Anything's possible in football."
"Our first priority is always to stay in the Championship, because, let's be honest – we're one of the smaller teams in the league. But once we've achieved that we can look at greater goals and look at play-offs and potential promotion. We start each season looking to get 58 points then see where we can go from there."
John cites the problems experienced at Hull City as to why Rovers will not go down the 'big money' route, even if it means they will not be able to make big money signings. He continued: "What happened at Hull was crazy. In a way Hull and Doncaster are similar because of the way they both had a resurgence and we both went up from Division Three together. I think in a way we'd be much more prudent – we wouldn't be giving Jimmy Bullard 40 grand a week for four years. There are some shocking things then went on and I hate to say it but I think they'll get relegated."
"If we went up we'd be very modest. We'd probably bring in two or three players on loan for a season and plan for relegation. I actually think we've got a smart enough manager that could keep us up. I'd be getting players in for 10 grand a week and for a season. I'd also give the boys who got us promotion a chance to play in the Premier League. If we go down, we go down – we probably would – but we'd have a Championship budget so it wouldn't cost us at all."

April 12, 2010

Rovers continue to check out keeper

Not for the first time this season, Doncaster Rovers have been reported to be tracking Lincoln City goalkeeper Rob Burch, who has had a superb season for the Imps which has attracted scouts from Rovers, Scunthorpe and Preston North End attending their matches over the Easter weekend.
Lincoln are reported to be about to offer a 'record breaking contract' to the young keeper, who has been ever-present this season, whilst the player is weighing up that option along with keeping his options of moving to another club open as long as possible. Burch would be available on a free transfer at the end of the season.

April 12, 2010

See a Rovers legend in action!

Former Rovers legend Ian Snodin is one of a number of players signed up to play for England in the EFPA (European Former Players Association) Champions Cup at the Echo Arena on Friday, 16th April. The evening starts at 6.45pm, with tickets priced at £20 for adults and £10 for children under the age of 16. A 'family ticket' at £50 is also on offer.
The competition has four teams taking part, with an England team competing with a joint Wales/Ireland team, a Scotland side and a "Europe" side.
For more information, chec the Echo Arena website at www.echoarena.com.

April 10, 2010

Rovers 2 West Bromwich Albion 3

April 10, 2010

What the managers said

Not surprisingly, the emphasis in the post-match interviews was on West Bromwich Albion's promotion following their victory at the Keepmoat Stadium.
Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll paid them tribute, saying: "They and Newcastle have been the outstanding teams in the division. They are Premier League clubs and everyone has wanted to beat them. Over the course of the season they have been more consistent than anyone else and you have to give them a lot of credit. They have quality where it matters and there is not much you can do about that."
West Bromwich Albion's manager, Roberto di Matteo said: "It's a credit to the players who have worked very hard. Their attitude, effort has been the key to this season and we have been promoted with three games left, it's an amazing achievement. It has been great to work with these players this year and I have enjoyed it very much. As a manager you need good players, players who are willing to put in the effort through the season. It's different to what I achieved when I was a player, but as a manager promotion is a good thing to have on your track record."
"I've been a manager for only two years and this has to be the highlight so far. It is a great achievement to get promotion and I've had plenty of things like champagne poured on me. We could have done without Doncaster scoring their second goal late on but we got there. I know it will be difficult in the Premier League - we will be like a baby who has to learn how to run - but I just want to enjoy this first. I will be having a glass of Italian red wine with my wife and three children to celebrate because they have been a great support to me.'

April 10, 2010

Lewis scores again!

Lewis Guy scored his second goal for Oldham Athletic yesterday afternoon as Oldham Athletic picked up a vital win in their battle to avoid relegation from League One. Guy struck in the 48th minute to lift Dave Penney's men to five points above the relegation spots with six games to play.
Also in League One, ex-Rovers striker Darren Byfield scored a 70th minute goal to give Walsall a 2-1 win over Tranmere Rovers. In the same division, Jon-Paul Pittman scored Wycombe Wanderers' first goal int heir 2-0 home win over Hartlepool United.
In the Blue Square Premier Leaggue, former Rovers youth striker Michael Rankine, the nephew of ex-Rovers star Mark, scored a 45th minute penalty for York City in their 3-1 defeat at Eastbourne Borough. Despite that setback, York are confirmed as qualifying for the promotion play-offs, being ten points ahead of sixth placed AFC Wimbledon with just three games to go. The battle for the title goes on though, with Stevenage Borough four points ahead of free-scoring Luton Town, who in turn are four points ahead of Oxford United and a further four ahead of Rushden & Diamonds.
Finally, in the UniBond League Division One (South), ex-Rover Ben Saunders scored one of Grantham's goals in their 4-0 home win over Cammell Laird.

April 10, 2010

Injury update

The season is now over for Rovers midfielder Martin Woods, who has recovered from his bout of tonsilitis, but has now torn his groin in training. He faces an operation a week on Monday so, with recuperation time afterwards, he is now sidelined for the rest of the season, but is looking forward to being fully fit for pre-season training.
Woods has been plagued with a groin injury for over a year, but has battled on with pain-killing injections and tablets. He told the Doncaster Star: "I was able to continue playing until I tore the groin playing against Sheffield Wednesday. It was always planned that I would see the the specialist at the end of the season to see whether I would need an operation, but while ever we were in with a chance of the play-offs I wanted to keep on playing."
"But I had spoken to John the physio last week and had decided that I would have the operation at the end of the season and he made the necessary arrangements, so the decision had already been made before what happened yesterday. It's probably a blessing than I can have it done knowing that we can't get into the play-offs. I would have been gutted to have been missing out, There is no point in waiting to the end of the season; I'll get it done as quickly as possible so that I can get the rehab done in plenty of time so that I can be ready for pre-season training."
Striker Billy Sharp is unlikely to play again for Rovers before his loan runs out at the end of the season. The hot-shot striker tore a thigh muscle and whilst he is keen to play again this season, the odds seem to be stacked against him, especially with Rovers having little to play for.
Brian Stock's hopes of playing again this season seem to have been finally dashed after picking up a calf injury in training. He has progressed well from his back complaint, but the latest set-back may well hinder his return to fitness before the summer.
As for Steve Brooker, there's no news mentioned in the Doncaster Star, but I think we can take it that he won't be fit to play before the end of the season!

April 10, 2010

Rovers bag a million!

The website sportspromedia.com has reported that the value of Rovers' deal with One Call Insurance , in which the Doncaster-based company is to become the shirt sponsor for the next three seasons, is $1 million per season. The One Call logo will appear on the home and away kits for the next three years, as well as on the training and replica kits, with the website estimating that the deal is worth $3 million..
Rovers chairman John Ryan said: "As a club we are committed to giving back to the local community and it was important to all of us that our new club sponsor was a local organisation who shared that commitment to the club and to Doncaster as a whole, and in One Call Insurance we have found that partner."
One Call's managing diretor, John Radford, said: "We are delighted to be sponsoring our local team, Doncaster Rovers. Doncaster Rovers place a huge emphasis on building community links and keeping local roots and are one of Doncaster's largest employers. We hope the recognition we receive from being associated with a successful Championship Club like Doncaster Rovers will enable us to develop further on a national level."
One Call was the club's shirt sponsor a decade ago whilst Rovers were still in the Nationwide Conference.

April 10, 2010

Voting results

We apologise for the delay in bringing you the resutls of the "Man of the Match" voting for the away game at Blackpool on Easter Monday. It turned out to be a keenly contested battle between John Oster, Paul Heffernan and Shelton Martis, with the final order of honours being:
1 John Oster (38.46%)
2 Paul Heffernan (30.77%)
3 Shelton Martis (23.08%)
We thank everyone for alll the votes cast throughout the season. The voting for the home game against West Bromwich Albion is now open.

April 10, 2010

Rovers v West Bromwich Albion

Doncaster Rovers will be out to be "party poopers" this afternoon when they face West Bromwich Albion at the Keepmoat Stadium. West Brom need a win to confirm their finish in an automatic promotion place - promotion may also be assured as long as the Baggies match Nottingham Forest's result today.
Whilst the play-off dream is over for Rovers - they need to win all matches and hope that Swansea and Leicester come away virtually pointless from all their remaining games if they were be able to catch the top six - Sean O'Driscoll's men will be going out to finish as high as they can.
Interestingly, according to the BBC's website, Doncaster Rovers have the best disciplinary record in the Championship, having picked up 41 cards this season (38 yellow and 3 red). In contrast, West Brom have the worst record in the division with 87 cards received (84 yellow and 3 red). West Brom also are the top scorers in the division and have the best away record in the Championship, so it looks like a tough test for the Rovers players today.
O'Driscoll has hinted that he may tinker with the starting line-up in the remaining games as a result, although with several players injured, and four out on loan, his ability to do so will be limited.
He will be without Brian Stock (back), Steve Brooker (ankle), Byron Webster (foot), Billy Sharp (thigh) and Jason Shackell (groin). Martin Woods has recovered from his bout of tonsilities, but has now aggravated his groin injury and will miss the final games of the season. Sharp, Shackell and Stock all have hopes of playing again before the end of the season, although in all cases, such ambitions appear to be in the balance.
Young striker Waide Fairhurst has returned to training after recovering from a knock and will be available for selection, whilst Paul Heffernan is set to keep his place in the side after impressing on his return to the club for Monday's game at Blackpool.
West Brom have concerns over James Morrison who is reported to be struggling with tight hamstrings, and they will also be without Jerome Thomas (hamstring) and Gianni Zuiverloon (thigh). Stephen Reid has recovered from his hamstring injury and will be added to the squad, whilst Reuben Reid has returned from a loan spell at Peterborough and is available. Chris Wood has recovered from illness and will also be added to the squad

April 10, 2010

Today's match officials

The match officials for this afternoon's home game against West Bromwich Albion have been confirmed as being:
Referee: JJ Linington
Assistant referees: AR Holmes and P Norriw
Fourth official: M Brown

April 10, 2010

Ticket update

A crowd of 12,000 looks probable for this afternoon's game against West Bromwich Albion. The Keepmoat Stadium is reporting that West Brom have sold their 3,300 allocation, whilst 8,539 tickets have been sold for the home stands, making it the fifth successive game where there has been an attendance of over 10,000.

April 10, 2010

Penney keen to extend Lewis's loan

Oldham boss Dave Penney is keen to extend the loan of Rovers striker Lewis Guy until the end of the season after being impressed by the contribution of the player since joining last month. Guy's loan runs out after this afternoon's game against Bristol Rovers, but Penney is hoping Rovers will allow Guy to stay. He said: "He has been bright and lively and the only thing he needs to add to his game is goals. I think his infectiousness and enthusiasm has rubbed off on a few of the other lads as we have seen in training and in games."
Lewis has formed a useful partnership with Pawel Abbott and has scored once since being at the Latics.

April 9, 2010

All Whites training camp

New Zealand's coach Ricki Herbert is currently deciding on his squad for the World Cup, but he is not being inundated wtih home-based players for the compeition.
He initially indicated that the 18 players who were in the squad for their World Cup Qualifier win over Bahrain would be in the squad for South Africa, meaning that former Doncaster Rovers defender David Mulligan would be included. The coach, however, has yet to confirm whether those 18 will be first choices for the squad as he checks out several other players to make up the 23 man squad. But, as Herbert says, any hopeful players will have to prove that they can perform at international level. He commented: "But, to do that, they have to show me they are ready and capable of playing at that level. They need to put their hands up and really show out. For these players in a non-professional league, it is the chance of a lifetime."
Mulligan's hopes of appearing in the World Cup have not been helped by his release from Wellington Phoenix at the end of the last New Zealand season, after he struggled to get into the first eleven.
He, along with four other A-League All-Whites are keeping in top shape ahead of the World Cup with a 12-day camp at South Melbourne FC, who are coached by All-Whites top-scorer Vaughan Coveny. The five will use South Melbourne's facilities during the morning and take part in team training in the afternoon as they strive to keep in shape to bridge the gap between the end of the A-League and the All-Whites first pre-World Cup camp which begins on April 28th in Auckland. Other players who are still involved in leagues in other parts of the world will join the All-Whites camp by the end of April.

April 9, 2010

Mills loses red card appeal

Former Rovers defender Matt Mills has lost his appeal against a red card he received in Reading's recent game against Ipswich Town. He was given a three-match ban for the sending off, which was for "serious foul play", with a further one match added as he had been sent off before this season - the game against Doncaster Rovers in early February.
Reading boss Brian McDermott commented: "We are disappointed for Matt because he misses four games now, but I still feel it was right for us to appeal on his behalf. We felt we had a good case, we knew we were not making a frivolous appeal and that is obviously how the panel saw it because he hasn’t been given an extra game's suspension. I felt it was a fair tackle with no intent, and my view has not changed on that. But what's done is done and as a team we move on to Cardiff.”

April 9, 2010

Bayo out for a fortnight

Injury-plagued former Rovers striker Adebayo Akinfenwa will miss Northampton Town's next three games after hobbling off with an ankle injury in their Easter Monday clash with Torquay United, meaning it is in the balance on whether he can return before the end of the season.
Cobblers' boss ian Sampson said: "Bayo is possibly going to be out for a minimum of two weeks and that is obviously not great news for the club. He has got to go for a scan on Friday and I think he has got a bit of ligament damage in his ankle. Bayo puts himself on the line and if there was any chance he could play on Saturday then he would be out there but I say that was unlikely."

April 8, 2010

Mickey's Testimonial Dinner

The latest event to celebrate Mickey Walker's testimonial year after ten years at Doncaster Rovers takes place this evening in the restaurant in the East Stand of the Keepmoat Stadium, when Doncaster-born legend Kevin Keegan will be one of Mickey's guests.
Mickey told the Doncaster Star: "Kevin doesn't normally do football dinners but he's been a friend for a long time. There aren't that many special people around these days, but he's one of them. He's a real nice guy and a good friend."
Also attending will be former boxing champion Clinton Woods, along with Rovers chairman John Ryan and former Rovers boss Dave Penney.
Walker continued: "There isn't a top table but I'm sure that they will all have something to say and I'm looking forward to it. As well as a two-course meal there will be entertainment from 2Grand and comedian John Stiles, who will also be the compare on the night, We've also got some great items for a sporting auction including a Manchester United shirt signed by all the players and Sir Alex Ferguson. There will also be a signed Doncaster Rovers League One Promotion Play-off final shirt."
Looking back on his testimonial season, Mickey commented: "It was very good of the club to grant me one after ten years' service. I've tried to make it as enjoyable as I could for everyone concerned and I'd like to thank everyone who has helped.The final event is a Yorkshire six-a-side Masters at the Keepmoat Stadium on Sunday, May 9. It will be an Over-35s event featuring teams from most of the South Yorkshire clubs and Leeds United.eo Fortune-West will be in charge of the Rovers team which will feature the likes of Penns (Dave Penney) and Gary Brabin, It promises to be a good afternoon and we are hoping for a good turn-out." Admission will be £8 (adults), £2 (juniors)."
There are still a small number of tickets available for this evening's dinner priced at £45 - call Mickey on 0797 7220643 for details -or see our 'home' page for the promotional advert which you can access by clicking on Mickey's picture to the left.

April 8, 2010

Price plays for his future

Former Doncaster Rovers striker Jason Price is playing for his future whilst on loan at Carlisle United until the end of the season. The 32-year old striker would be happy to consider a permanent move to Brunton Park - as he told the News & Star: "I'm playing for a contract. If I'm offered one, I will have to seriously look at it, because I'm getting on now! I need to be playing games and scoring goals."
Jason has struggled to hold down a first team place since moving to Millwall and spent a month on loan at Dave Penney's Oldham Athletic earlier in the season.

April 8, 2010

Sullivan to play on

Goalkeeper Neil Sullivan may have celebrated his 40th birthday recently, but he has no intention of hanging up his boots and fully intends to be playing next season. Sullivan, who has played nearly 500 games in a long and successful career, has been a key player in Rovers' successful 2009/10 campaign, but is one of a large number of players to have their contracts expire at the end of the season. The decision of who gets a contract for next season will, undoubtedly, have to wait until the end of the season, although Sullivan is keeping his fingers crossed.
He said: "My age has got nothing to do with anything. Just because I have reached a certain age they say it's because you are too old when you make a mistake and when you make saves and do well they say it's because you are using your wealth of experience. The question of age is irrelevant. I expect to be playing next season. I enjoy football and still think my standards are of a high level."
"Where I will be playing next season I don't really know. My contract will be up and I am doing my 'B' licence during the summer and I would like to be involved in goalkeeping coaching but I feel that is a long way off at the moment."

April 8, 2010

Coaches to Ipswich

The Supporters Club are running coaches to the away game at Ipswich Town on Saturday, 17th April. They will leave Retford at 8.30am, Bawtry 8.45am, Harworth Pit Gates 8.35am, Rossington Styrrup 8.45am, Hare & Tortoise 8.50am, Doncaster Royal Infirmary 9.00am and Keepmoat Stadium Car Park 1 at 9.15am.
Fares are as follows:
Members £18.00 - OAP's £16.00 - U16's £14.00
Non-Members £20.00 - OAP's £18.00 - U16's £16.00
To book a place on the coaches, please contact Harry Bacon (01302 854626), Len South (01302 817347) or Paul Mayfield (01427 880154).

April 6, 2010

Blackpool 2 Rovers 0

A goal in each half from Blackpool effectively ended any talk of Doncaster Rovers having a chance of reaching the Championship promotion play-offs. The second defeat of the Easter weekend leaves Rovers nine points adrift of the play-offs with only four games still to play - it would take a cataclysmic collapse in form of all the clubs between 11th placed Rovers and sixth placed Leicester to to let Sean O'Driscoll's men in. With West Bromwich Albion coming to the Keepmoat Stadium on Saturday, when their promotion to the Premiership may well be confirmed, a 100% victory record from remaining games seems a big challenge.
Rovers recalled Paul Heffernan from his loan spell at Bristol Rovers to lead the attack which has been denied the services of Billy Sharp, and the Irishman was unlucky not to win a penalty in the first half. Insult was added to injury as the referee decided that Heffernan had dived, and was promptly booked. Blackpool began the game in determined mood, but Rvoers always looked lively on the break - on the stroke of half time, Heffernan was again unlucky when he was denied by a good save from Matt Gilks.
Both teams had their chances after the break, with Heffernan rolling the ball through Gilks' legs from a tight angle, but Crainey was on hand to clear the ball off the line. As it was, the contest was sealed when Dobbie latched onto a pass from David Vaughan to curl an unstoppable shot past Neil Sullivan into the far corner of the net.

April 7, 2010

Boss gives up on play-offs

Rovers manager Sean O'Driscoll has accepted that his club's challenge for the play-offs is now over after falling to defeat at Blackpool on Monday, but backed Blackpool's challenge to overhall their points deficit in time to finish in the top six.
O'Driscoll said: "I never really thought we had a serious chance of the play-offs in the first place. We are in our second season in the Championship, and I will not be losing any sleep over this. The pitch made it very difficult for the two footballing sides, but I am delighted for Blackpool. If they make it to the play-offs, they will champion the cause of the little clubs like ourselves."

April 7, 2010

Youth team fall to defeat

The Rovers' youth team went down to a 3-0 defeat at York City yesterday, meaning that they have now not won in their last six Youth Alliance games, during which time they have only picked up two points. No further details of the Rovers side are currently available, as the only source of information is York City's official website.
Rovers also had youth teams at lower age levels in action over Easter, when they played their counterparts at Boston United.
The Under-15s drew 1-1, the Under-13s drew 5-5, the Under-11s won 2-0, the Under-12s won 2-0, but the Under-10s lost 3-2.
Again, no further information from a Rovers angle is possible - the results were posted on Boston United's official website.

April 7, 2010

Swansea tickets now on sale

Tickets for the final game of the season, away at Swansea City on Sunday, 2nd May, are now on sale to Season Ticket holders from the Keepmoat Stadium ticket office.
Rovers have received an initial allocation of 793 tickets for the fixture.
Only season ticket holders will be able to buy tickets this week; next week they will also be on sale to Members and Alliance members. Any tickets remaining will go on general sale from Monday, 19th April.
Tickets will remain on sale until 4pm on Friday, 30th April. Please note that Swansea City do not have the facilities to enable away supporters to pay on the day, so please do not travel to the game if you do not have a ticket.
Ticket prices are as follows:
Adults £25.00
Senior Citizens £13.00
Students in full-time education £15.00 (proof will be required at the turnstiles)
Under-16s £10.00
Ambulant/Wheelchair disabled £25.00 (carer admitted free)

April 7, 2010

McCammon turns down loan move

Former Doncaster Rovers striker Mark McCammon has rejected a loan move to Dover Athletic , despite him returning to Gillingham from a short loan spell at Bradford City.
McCammon's stay at Bradford was ended due to his lack of fitness, which, in the main has been caused by a lack of first team opportunities at Gillingham.
It is reported that Gillingham had agreed to the loan move, but the player turned down the opportunity.
Dover boss Andy Hessenthaler told the BBC: "I made the call and Mark Stimson was happy for us to have him but sadly the lad didn't want to come. That's his prerogative. It was another option for us but it didn't come off."
McCammon will go down in Rovers history as being the scorer of the first goal at the Keepmoat Stadium, when he fired Rovers ahead in the inaugural match against Huddersfield Town on 1st January 2007.

April 6, 2010

What the managers said

They may have lost the match, but Sean O'Driscoll was full of praise for his players following yesterday's game at Blackpool.
Speaking after the game, O'Driscoll said: "Performance-wise, I would have taken that every day of the week, I thought we were excellent. We were a bit unfortunate with both of the goals, but on a difficult pitch I thought that the team was set out right and we stopped them. I saw Blackpool beat Swansea here 5-1 and watched them beat Scunthorpe at Glanford Park. I thought that we dealt with everything that they threw at us. On another day, we could have come out winning or at least got something out of the game."
"I'm proud of the side and what we have achieved this season and, as I said, I would take a performance like that any day of the week. I'd rather us come off the pitch having lost but ticking all of the boxes that we did today than at Plymouth where we should have won the game, but didn't do all of the things that we needed to do. We played some football but we didn't do all of the nitty-gritties that we did today. I can quite easily come off the pitch today and give them all pats on the back."
Blackpool boss Ian Holloway was very pleased with the result yesterday, which keeps his side in touch with the play-off places.
He said: "I am bursting with pride for my lads. To produce wins when you need to, with the quality of the finishing, is absolutely outstanding. The lads deserve massive, massive credit. My team selection was probably the most difficult I've ever had as a manager, and that speaks volumes for the players. I don't want the season to end. That equals our best run of the season four wins in a row so let's see if we can top that and beat Newcastle away from home. Hopefully we can do that."
"We've got some really good players here at this football club and we've borrowed some really good players as well. I hope they get what they deserve for their efforts this year, I think they've been outstanding."

April 6, 2010

Spicer strikes

John Spicer, currently on loan at Leyton Orient from Doncaster Rovers, hit an early goal in their game against Southampton at St Mary's yesterday. His second minute goal put Orient into the lead - but two goals from Lallana sent the relegation-threatened Londoners to defeat.
Somewhat further down the league structure, Jamie Barnwell scored for North Ferriby United as they won 3-1 at home to Ossett Town.

April 6, 2010

Wheater wants to stay

April 6, 2010

Keegan at the Keepmoat

One of Doncaster's most famous sons, Kevin Keegan, is heading back to his home town next month to present "An evening with Kevin Keegan" at the Keepmoat Stadium. The event is being held as part of Mickey Walker's testimonial season, with a number of events being planned over the coming few weeks, which we will let you know about in the near future.
The Kevin Keegan evening is on Thursday, 8th April with a 7pm start, with tickets at £45 each, or £400 for a table of ten. Included is a two course meal, along with a full evening's entertainment, which includes Doncaster's own Two Grand, who appeared on Britain's Got Talent last year. The evening will be hosted by ex-Rovers player John Stiles, who is now firmly established as a comedy speaker on the "After Dinner" circuit.
Why not come along and support Mickey's testimonial season - tickets are available from the Keepmoat Stadium ticket office on 01302 762576 or on-line at www.keepmoatstadium.com.

April 6, 2010

Voting results

April 5, 2010

Heffernan is back!

Striker Paul Heffernan has been recalled from his loan at Bristol Rovers and goes into the squad for this afternoon's away game at Blackpool. With Rovers having few striking options on Saturday, it became clear that Heffernan's return had to be considered, and with news that Billy Sharp may be out for the rest of the season, there may be an opportunity for Heffs to stake a claim for a new contract at Doncaster Rovers.
The news was posted on Carlisle United's official website - they reported it as Bristol Rovers have consequently recalled striker Darryl Duffy, who had been on loan at Carlisle.
As Heffernan has been recalled, and the 'loan transfer deadline' has passed, he will remain at Doncaster for the rest of the season and will not be able to return to Bristol Rovers.

April 5, 2010

Blackpool v Rovers

Doncaster Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll is unlikely to make any changes to the side that lost at home to Plymouth on Saturday - because he has little choice. Rovers could only name five substitutes instead of the allowed seven on Saturday due to injuries and five players currently out on loan at other clubs.
News that Billy Sharp could miss the rest of the season will certainly limit Rovers' chances of keeping in touch with the play-off places - Sharp will definitely miss the encounter at Bloomfield Road this afternoon. With Martin Woods continuing to be affected by tonsilitis, it looks as though Dean Shiels will keep his place in midfield, as will Jay Emmanuel Thomas, who played against Rovers for Blackpool earlier in the season.
Blackpool have no new injury concers ahead of today's game, with three players - DJ Campbell, David Vaughan and Hameur Bouzza returning from injury in their 4-2 win at Scunthorpe United, and all three players should be included again today. They will be without defender Stephen Crainey, whose knee injury could keep him out for the rest of the season, and striker Brett Ormerod, who has had surgery on a hand injury and also may not play again this season. Defender Near Eardley is out with a hamstring injury, but defender Rob Edwards, midfielder Barry Bannan and striker Jason Euell are pushing for recalls to the squad.

April 5, 2010

Blackpool tickets on sale today

Despite Rovers selling all of their 1,000 allocation of tickets for today's away game at Blackpool, another 400 tickets will be available for Rovers supporters at Bloomfield Road.
Ticket prices for the game are as follows:
Adults £24.50
Senior Citizens (60+) £19.50
Under 18s £16.50
Under 16s £14.50
Ambulant/Wheelchair disabled £12.00
Carers £12.00

April 5, 2010

Sharp out for season?

It looks as though star striker Billy Sharp could miss the rest of the season after tearing a thigh muscle during last weekend's match at Barnsley. The injury is anticipated to take at least two to three weeks to heal - and with the final game of the season being only four weeks away (play-offs excepted!), Billy could have played his last game of the summer.
Boss Sean O'Driscoll said: "Billy is definitely out for Monday. He's got quite a nasty injury and it could be touch-and-go as to whether he will play again this season. We will wait and see but he has got no chance for Monday."

April 5, 2010

Blackpool match officials

The match officials for this afternoon's away game at Blackpool have been confirmed as being:
Referee: D. Webb
Assistant referes: S.A.J. Duncan & B. Roberts
Fourth official: P. Bankes

April 5, 2010

Reading to challenge Mills red card

Reading are to appeal against the sending off of former Rovers defender Matthew Mills, who was sent off after half an hour of their game at Ipswich Town on Saturday.
Boss Brian McDermott commented: "If we start taking tackles like that out of our game it would be a sorry state of affairs. We've watched it five times in slow motion. It was a tough tackle but there was no intent whatsoever. He got the ball and there is no way it is a red card."
Ipswich went on to make the man advantage count as they registered a 2-1 victory, with Reading's impressive run of results of late coming to an abrupt halt.

April 3, 2010

Rovers 1 Plymouth 2

What has been the value of Billy Sharp to Doncaster Rovers this season? The answer was probably seen at the Keepmoat Stadium this afternoon, with Rovers threadbare in striking options once Sharp had been ruled out with a thigh injury, which will hopefully not be serious enough to keep him out of Monday's encounter at Blackpool. Whilst James Hayter played well enough, the cutting edge and the tenacious play of the industrious Sharp left Rovers without the vital threat of danger when going forward, and whilst Coppinger and Oster tried to shoulder the burden, the end result was negated by a valiant display from the visitors. Whether Sean O'Driscoll will be persuaded to recall Paul Heffernan from his loan at Bristol Rovers is yet to be seen, but the lack of attacking options on the bench meant that Adam Lockwood was introduced as forward for his second half substitute appearance.
The first half passed without too many serious goal scoring chances, but the second half livened up when Rovers went in front through James Coppinger, who cracked the ball home after the kepeer had failed to keep hold of James Hayter's shot. The lead only lasted nine minutes though, as Neil Sullivan failed to keep hold of a shot, with substitute Joe Mason stabbing home the rebound from close range. The goal gave the visitors heart and whilst Rovers improved when Sean O'Driscoll made a double substitution, they could not make the vital breakthrough. The best chance came when James O'Connor was given too much room by the Plymouth defence when he cut in from his right back slot to get a shot in - the keeper could not hold the ball and Hayter's shot cracked against the crossbar.
Plymouth stole the points in time added on at the end of the game when Bradley Wright-Phillips got onto the end of a free kick to fire the ball into the top left corner out of Sullivan's reach.
Whilst the result does not yet kill Rovers' dream of reaching the play-offs, it's going to be a tough challenge now, with Rovers six points adrift of sixth place with just five games to go. The Blackpool game on Easter Monday now looks like a true case of a "must win" game if the final few matches of the season are to provide real interest for Doncaster Rovers supporters!
Voting for the "Man of the Match" will remain open until 2pm this afternoon. If you would like to take part, please click on the logo to the left.

April 4, 2010

What the managers said

Sean O'Driscoll did not try to hide his disappointment with the performance of his Rovers side yesterday afternoon, which saw the team drop three points in the first of their vital Easter campaign.
He said: "I thought we were lacklustre the whole game. The standards we set, we didn't do what we need to do. It was as poor as we have played since the 3-3 draw with Ipswich. We had a big chance with a big potential prize and it was poor."
"They didn't deserve anything; we got what we deserved. We plugged away but we didn't do enough. Plymouth Argyle did what we expected them to do and I thought that we were the side that were unpredictable. We've performed really well as of late but we didn't turn up today."
On two claims for penalties in the game,O'Driscoll refused to use them as an excuse for the performance. He said: "The second case was a penalty. You look at the DVD and that is a hard one to explain. The first one; I don't know. You're the home side and it's not given - so you can throw your hands up and moan about it, but it was 50/50. The second one, we've had the ability to look back at it, so we're not looking through tinted glasses and I can't see why it hasn't been given. However, that is not an excuse for not performing in what was a massive game for us."
"There were no positives for me. We started poorly and even the warm up was poor. We didn't do all of the things that we needed to do. We've come to the stage in the season where, if you don't want to do them now, then we're wasting our time."
Understandably, the Argyle management team were very pleased with the result, which still gives them a glimmer of hope of avoiding relegation.
Assistant manager John Carver said after the game: "Everybody is ecstatic with the result. The way the game started, we were a bit concerned because we had a real tough game on Tuesday night - the guys put in a lot of effort - and we used the same players. We thought we were lacking just a little bit of energy. The game then settled down. We got to half-time 0-0 and were quite pleased with that; came out for the second half and then conceded that goal. When the ball went through the middle, my first thought was that it could have been offside. Then they had a bit of luck: [Onismor] Bhasera made a great block on it, and it fell back to Copps, who I know well from my Newcastle days and I knew he'd finish it, which he did."
"But that seemed to galvanise us. A lot of teams can be in that situation and feel sorry for themselves, especially with our league position, but we know the spirit of the guys and we know that they're committed to the cause and we actually started playing some better football, and started giving [Doncaster] one or two problems."
" After Joe's goal, we thought 'We can win this'. I know we would have taken a point, but we were on the front foot; we were looking to take the game to them. Towards the end, [Doncaster] hit the crossbar at the end of a great little move - which typified Doncaster's type of football. We got a little bit of fortune with it."
" I just said 'That might be the luck we need' and we go down the other end and, from a set play that we spend a lot of time on, get the winning goal."
"We're up in the top six for away form. We do believe in ourselves. We've got a group of players who are working hard for each other. That's why we say we are never going to give up on this situation."

April 4, 2010

Lewis gets the winner!

Lewis Guy scored his first goal for Oldham Athletic to secure a vital three points for Dave Penney's men as they continue to battle against the prospect of relegation. The on-loan Rovers striler struck just before the hour mark when he latched onto a pin-point pass from Dale Stephens to slot the ball past the Gillingham keeper to give the Latics three points. The result puts Oldham three points above Gillingham, who now occupy the highest of the the relegation places in League One.
One former Rovers player who will want to forget yesterday's game is Matt Mills. He was sent off after half an hour of Reading's game at Ipswich Town, with the home side making the most fo their man advantage to register a 2-1 win, which halts Reading's impressive surge up the Championship table.

April 4, 2010

Stock hopes to be back

Rovers skipper Brian Stock is hoping to be back in action in the next couple of weeks to boost a Rovers side who have been short in numbers in recent games, which resulted in Sean O'Driscoll not being able to name a full substitutes' bench for yesterday's game.
Stock told the Doncaster Star: "The injection (to reduce the swelling of a nerve in his lower back) seems to have worked and I'm looking to be back training on either Tuesday or Wednesday next week. I am hoping to play again this season - though I probably won't be able to get into the team because of how well the lads have been doing."

April 4, 2010

Heffernan set to leave

Assistant manager Richard O'Kelly has conceded that striker Paul Heffernan is likely to leave the club in the summer, with the Irishman's contract due to expire. Heffernan is currently on loan at Bristol Rovers after struggling to make the first team at Doncaster this season.
O'Kelly said: "Paul is thoroughly enjoying himself while getting some games on loan at Bristol Rovers. Heff is a player that wants to play regularly, like any player does, and he gets better the more games he plays. Unfortunately he was just a squad player here and to get the best out of him was to get him out on loan for some games."

April 3, 2010

Rovers v Plymouth

Doncaster Rovers go into a key weekend of the season with doubts over striker Billy Sharp and midfielder Martin Woods.
Sharp has been struggling with a thigh injury all week and he was sent for a precautionary scan yesterday after the injury had not responded to treatment as expected. Should Sharp be ruled out, Rovers' attacking options as a replacement are limited owing to Paul Heffernan and Lewis Guy being out on loan at the moment. It could be the chance for Waide Fairhurt to show what he can do as a striker partner with James Hayter, who has been in good form in recent games.
Midfielder Woods was sent home from training on Thursday after suffering from a virus, but he has been put on a course of antibiotics and Rovers are hoping that he will be fit to play in this afternoon's game. Jay Emmanuel-Thomas has also gone down with a virus, and Rovers will monitor the situation in the run-up to kick-off.
If possible, Sean O'Driscoll will keep an unchanged side, with no other new injury concerns to contend with. Should Woods or Sharp not make it, Dean Shiels may be given a starting place. Defender Adam Lockwood will again be included on the bench as he continues his recovery from a six month lay-off with a foot injury.
Absent due to injury today will be Brian Stock (back), Steve Brooker (ankle), Jason Shackell (groin) and Byron Webster (foot).
Out on loan at the moment are Lewis Guy (Oldham Athletic), John Spicer (Leyton Orient), Paul Heffernan (Bristol Rovers), Robbie Clarke (Brigg Town) and Charles Fisher (Frickley Athletic).
Plymouth boss Paul Mariner also has a number of fitness issues to contend with before naming his side for this afternoon's match. Talismanic captain Carl Fletcher is only rated as 50-50 by Mariner after suffering a cut knee in last Saturday's defeat against Blackpool, which meant he missed their midweek game against Barnsley. Also set to be missing are Kari Arnason (hip), Richard Eckersley (ankle) and David McNamee (hamstring), whilst Chris Barker (hamstring) is doubtful and will face a fitness test. Craig Noone is available again after recovering from a knee injury.

April 3, 2010

Goals check

With a few matches being played on Good Friday, we have a few former Rovers players scoring goals in yesterday's matches to mention.
At Burnden Park, the on-loan Paul Heffernan scored Bristol Rovers' equaliser against Carlisle, but Jason Price, on loan at Carlisle from Millwall, put Carlisle back in front just four minutes later. Price was bundled over in the penalty area later in the game to earn Carlisle a penalty to give the Cumbrians a 3-1 victory. The result means that Carlisle can still harbour dreams of reaching the play-offs, whilst Bristol Rovers are still one place (and four points) adrift of the play-off places.
In League Two, Adebayo Akinfenwa scored Northampton's second goal in their 2-1 win at relegation threatened Grimsby Town.
The UniBond League had a full fixture list yesterday - in Division One (South), Robbie Clarke, on loan for the rest of the season, scored a third minute goal for Brigg Town as they went down 3-2 at home to Leek Town. Ex-Rovers striker Ben Saunders scored one of Grantham's goals in their 4-2 home win over Belper Town.

April 3, 2010

Coaches to Blackpool

The Supporters Club are running coaches to Monday's away game at Blackpool. They will leave Retford at 9.45am, Bawtry 10.00am, Harworth Pit Gates 9.50am, Rossington Styrrup 10.00am, Hare & Tortoise 10.05am, Doncaster Royal Infirmary 10.15am and Keepmoat Stadium Car Park 1 at 10.30am.
The fares are:
Members £13.00 - OAP's £12.00 - U16's £11.00
Non-Members £15.00 - OAP's £14.00 - U16's £13.00
To book a place on the coaches, please contact Harry Bacon (01302 854626), Len South (01302 817347) or Paul Mayfield (01427 880154).

April 3, 2010

Today's match officials

The match officials for this afternoon's home game against Plymouth Argyle have been confirmed as:
Referee: K.K. Wright
Assistant referees: M. Coy & N. Smith
Fourth offiicial: D.K. Benton

April 2, 2010

O'Kelly - two wins to be 'in the mix'

Rovers assistant manager Richard O'Kelly is looking for two wins from Rovers over the Bank Holiday weekend to keep the pressure on the clubs chasing after a play-off place. Whilst Rovers have a six point deficit to make up, with a number of the top six to play each other, there is the opportunity to close the gap by Monday evening.
He told the Doncaster Star: "I would say that we'll have a much better idea of our promotion prospects after our two Easter games against Plymouth and Blackpool, but even then it probably won't all be sorted because in this division everybody is capable of beating everybody else and you never know what is going to happen. But we'd certainly like to come out of the programme with a couple of wins because we'd be right in the mix."
"Virtually every club in the division is playing for something, whether it is trying to get away from the bottom three or to get near the play-offs or stay there. It is probably the most competitive in England, Our record of just one defeat in our last eight games is probably better than most of the teams involved."
"Neither game over Easter is going to be easy. Plymouth are down there fighting for their lives and they'll be coming up here on Saturday and giving it a right go."
Rovers then face Blackpool on Monday, who go into the weekend one place above Rovers - an important match for both sides.
O'Kelly said of the Blackpool game: "I don't imagine that it will be much different from the game at the Keepmoat Stadium earlier in the season when we drew 3-3 and it was a cracking game. They have got some really talented players and Ian Holloway has got them playing an attractive brand of football."

April 2, 2010

Supporters Club AGM

The AGM of the Doncaster Rovers' Disabled Supporters Club will take place in the Lakeside Bar at the Keepmoat Stadium at 11am on Saturday, 3rd April. All supporters are welcome to attend.

April 2, 2010

Wilson in demand

According to a report on the Sky Sports website, Rovers midfielder Mark Wilson is attracting the attention of a number of clubs in The Championship and League One. Wilson has been a regular in the side this season, particularly in the second half of the campaign since skipper Brian Stock has been absent.
Rovers are reported to have put all contract negotiations on hold until the end of the season, with Wilson one of a large number of the Rovers squad whose contract is scheduled to end this summer.
Scunthorpe United, Barnsley and Swindon Town are all reported to be monitoring the situation although, with Rovers still in with a chance of reaching the promotion play-offs, no further approach is likely until the season has ended.

April 2, 2010

Peter on target

One player that we've not seen on the goal-scoring lists for some time is Peter Hynes, who played eight games for Rovers in the 2003/04 season. Hynes is now playing for Longford Town in the eircom League of Ireland First Division, and scored their first goal in last Saturday's home game against one of his former clubs, Shelbourne. Unfortunately for Hynes, the final score ended Longford Town 3, Shelbourne 5.

April 2, 2010

Ryan criticises new parachute payments

The changes in the parachute payments made to clubs relegated from the Premier League are set to give those clubs an unfair advantage in the Championship, claims Rovers chairman John Ryan. From the end of this season, the 'parachute payments' made to relegated clubs will rise from £11.2 million to £16 million.
In an interview with BBC's Radio 5 Live last week, he said: "What are the Premier League trying to do to the Championship? Make it a bit more like the Premiership where everybody knows who will finish in the top four before the season starts. It's skewed enough as it is. Look at the table with Newcastle and West Brom at the top. Newcastle's wage bill is £42m and our's is £6m. We are competing because we have a great manager, as do Swansea while Nottm Forest have spent a fortune. If this goes ahead it will really skew the league. It's the best league around because it's so wonderfully unpredictable."
Ryan also predicts that this will also cause a similar situation between the Championship and Leagues One and Two. He continued: "There is an imbalance between Championship and League One and League Two. "I just hope they look at the ramifications. Rather than give massive payments to the relegated clubs, maybe it would be better to spread between the other clubs - it would make it a better competition".

April 1, 2010

O'Driscoll up for award

Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll has been nominated for the Championship's "Manager of the Month" after a good run of results has seen the club on the fringes of the play-off places. Rovers have played seven games in the month, losing only one game.
Also in the running are West Brom boss Roberto di Matteo, who have won five and drawn one match, Newcastle United's Chris Hughton and Reading's Brian McDermott.
The winner will be announced on Saturday's Gillette Soccer Saturday which is shown on Sky Sports News.

April 1, 2010

Sheridan banned

John Sheridan, the former Rovers midfielder who is now boss at Chesterfield, has been hit by a three match touchline ban by the Football Association who found him guilty after making various comments to match officials follwoing their recent 2-2 draw with Burton Albion.
Sheridan had just returned to the touchline after a two-match ban for misconduct for a similar incident during the Spireites 1-0 defeat at Notts County.

April 1, 2010

Offiong off to Sweden

Former Rovers striker Richard Offiong has joined Swedish Third Division side Ostersunds FC until the end of the season after failing to settle at Carlisle United this season. The former England under-20 striker joined the Cumbrians from Hamilton Academical in August 2009 for a £75,000 transfer fee, but has only scored once in 19 appearances so far, and was left out of the squad that travelled to Wembley last weekend for their Johnston's Paint Trophy final against Southampton.
Carlisle boss Greg Abbott said: “We are in a situation where we want Richard to be playing regularly so that he can build up his confidence and work towards becoming the player that we know he can be. This is an ideal opportunity for him to play at a very good level and to get some valuable competitive pitch time under his belt ahead of next season. Hopefully he will come back refreshed and rejuvenated and ready to go again.”
United also received an enquiry from a club in China who wanted to take Offiong on a six-month loan deal earlier this season but the deal fell through at the last minute.
Offiong will be with Ostersunds FK until July 18 and the Swedish club will make a contribution to his wages.

April 1, 2010

Beresford - no connection with Rovers

Rovers director Jim Beresford has resigned and has not had any connection with the club for over a year, according to John Ryan. Despite his name appearing in the match day programme this season, as well as being on DROS until the last few days, Bereford left the club after the Solicitors' Disciplinary Panel struck him off over profiteering on the miners' compensation scheme, which had made him the country's top earning solicitor.
Ryan said: "Jim Beresford has not been at the club for over a year. When the compensation issue blew up he said he did not want to come back. He resigned over a year ago although the paperwork was not completed until the last couple of months."
A Football League spokesman said: "The Football League is aware of the situation regarding James Beresford and has raised the matter with Doncaster Rovers. The club is fully aware of the effect of Football League Regulations and has confirmed it intends to comply with them."