Previous News

April 30, 2010

Rovers check out Inverness pair

Doncaster Rovers have been sending scouts up to watch the Inverness Caledonian Thistle players Adam Rooney and Jonathan Hayes, according to reports from the BBC. They are also understood to be sending a representative to the Caledonian Stadium tomorrow to watch the players in their home game against Dundee.
Rooney, a striker, has scored 26 goals this season. He is a former Republic of Ireland Under-21 international and joined Inverness from Stoke City, having also played on loan for Yeovil Town, Chesterfield and Bury.
Hayes, a midfield player, began his career with Reading before joining Leicester City in 2007, but has been a regular in the Inverness side this season, chipping in with 10 goals.

April 30, 2010

Lewer expects to stay

Histon manager Alan Lewer, an assistant manager at Doncaster Rovers when Steve Wignall was at the club, expects to be the manager at Blue Square Premier club Histon next season, despite being out of contract in the summer. Lewer succeeded Steve Fallon at the club in December, but since then fortunes have slumped, not helped by the budget being slashed which has seen several key players leaving the club, although he has enjoyed some success in the transfer market to bring midfielder Glen Southam and keeper David Knight to the club. Despite winning just three of the 22 league games played since he succeeded Fallon, it seems that his operation under severe financial constraints has been good enough to persuade the Histon board to offer him a new deal.
Whilst no agreement has yet been reached for next season, Lewer has been quoted as saying: "The board have asked me to go and look for a house, but we will have to wait and see."
"It's been hard because we have cut the budget massively and we may have to do the same next year. If we hadn't cut the budget, then we would not still have a football club. In football, you don't get jobs when life is easy."

April 30, 2010

Penney up for award

Former Doncaster Rovers manager Dave Penney has been short-listed for the League One "Manager of the Month" award for April, along with Alan Pardew (Southampton), Lee Clark (Huddersfield Town), and Gary Waddock (Wycombe Wanderers). The winner will be announced on Sky Sports Soccer Saturday at around noon tomorrow.
Meanwhile, Penney has been told that the Latics players will have to accept pay cuts for next season, which may hamper his ability to strengthen the squad during the summer, including the prospects of coming to a deal with Rovers striker Lewis Guy over a full transfer.
Oldham's Chief Executive Alan Hardy has said: "It's a really bad season financially for us. We're going to lose a considerable amount of money because gates have fallen quite dramatically. Some players might not be able to earn as much with us next season as they did this time. Obviously the football we have been playing, we've got to admit, has not been that attractive. That coupled with the recession has hit us badly. In the next week or two we've got to sit down with the manager [Dave Penney] and look at the budgets for next season. We've got to look at the players who are coming out of their contract. We've got to take a good, hard look at the finances because it has hit us really hard this season."

April 30, 2010

Coach times revised

The Supporters Club have announced that the departure times for the coaches for Sunday's away game at Swansea City have been revised due to the 1pm kick-off time.
Coaches will leave Retford at 5.45am, Bawtry 6.00am, Harworth Pit Gates 5.50am, Rossington Styrrup 6.00am, Hare & Tortoise 6.05am, Doncaster Royal Infirmary 6.15am and Keepmoat Stadium Car Park 1 at 6.30am.
The Supporters Club had asked all supporters to book places on the coach by last weekend, but if anyone has any queries, they should contact Harry Bacon (01302 854626), Len South (01302 817347) or Paul Mayfield (01427 880154).

April 30, 2010

Taylor offered new contract

Wrexham manager Dean Saunders has offered a new contract to former Doncaster Rovers striker Gareth Taylor, despite the experienced striker having missed a number of games due to injury during the season. Saunders, who has released 11 players this week following their last match of the season last Saturday, has warned many players being offered new deals for the 2010/11 season that they will have to take pay-cuts as Wrexham "did not do well enough".
Saunders made it clear that Taylor's contract offer would reflect the fact that, at the age of 38, "he is not going to play in every game", but his experience and respect he commands in the dressing room is valued by the club.
Saunders said: "Probably nearly all of them that want to stay will have to take less money to stay. Then some might turn those contracts down and also leave. I'm going to have to lose a few players. I've told them as we haven't done well enough so I'm going to have to change it. That is the ruthless world of football."

April 29, 2010

Spicer extends loan

It has been confirmed by both Leyton Orient and Doncaster Rovers that Rovers midfielder John Spicer is to have his loan extended until the end of the season. Leyton Orient are currently just above the League One relegation places, with a three point advantage and two games to play over 21st placed Tranmere Rovers.
Spicer has had to settle for a place on the bench at Rovers for much of the season, with Leyton Orient offering him the opportunity of regular first team football.

April 29, 2010	Rob on target
	Former Rovers youth player Rob O'Brien scored the crucial winning goal for Bradford Park Avenue in their UniBond Premier Division play-off semi-final on Tuesday evening. His goal, from the penalty spot, on the stroke of half time of their game against Kendal Town, puts Bradford through to the play-off final, which will be played against Boston United on Saturday.

April 29, 2010

Rovers win two awards

Doncaster Rovers have been named as the "Team of the Year" by both The Star and Green 'UN at their awards evening this week. Rovers chairman John Ryan was on hand to collect the award at the Royal Victoria Holiday Inn in Sheffield, which was highly appropriate as Ryan was the driving force behind the resurgence of Doncaster Rovers since taking control 12 years ago.
Rovers have confounded the critics for a second season by establishing themselves firmly in the Championship - and it could get even better, as there is still a chance that they could beat the club's best-ever final position of 11th, which was set back in the 1950/51 season. Should results go in their favour, Rovers could finish as high as tenth, but that would mean they had to beat play-off candidates Swansea City on Sunday. Swansea have to win to have a chance of finishing in the final play-off position, but they will also have to hope that Blackpool fail to win.
Rovers have gained a reputation of playing attractive football under the guidance of Sean O'Driscoll and Richard O'Kelly and have managed to improve on last season's achievements despite the loss of Richie Wellens and Matt Mills in the summer. The management duo have been very astute in their use of the loan market, particularly with the signing of Sheffield United striker Billy Sharp and Jason Shackell. Currently, midfielders Jordon Mutch and Jay Emmanuel Thomas are impressing whilst on loan from Birmingham City and Arsenal respectively.

April 29, 2010

Nelly denied play-off game

Former Doncaster Rovers left-winger Craig Nelthorpe will not be able to play for Luton Town this evening in the first leg of the Blue Square Premier play-off semi-final against York Cty. Nelthorpe is currently on loan at Luton from York City and, unsurprisingly, York are unwilling to have him play for the opposition! Craig has played eight times for Luton this season, all as a substitute, since moving to Kenilworth Road just ahead of the January transfer window, but has not made it on to the field of play since their 6-0 win against Grays on Easter Monday.

April 29, 2010

Cobblers offer Bayo improved deal

Northampton Town chairman David Cardoza has revealed that the club have offered Adebayo Akinfenwa an improved contract to stay at Sixfields next season. Akinfenwa has impressed for the Cobblers this season, despite missing a number of games due to injury. The 27 year old is out of contract in June, with the Cobblers keen to retain his services.
Cardoza said: "We've made him a very good offer, an improved offer from where we started. We know how important he is for the football club and the fans."
"The offer's out there, it's not been turned down, we'll see how we go but I don't think we would go any higher."
Bayo looked set to be heading away from the club in January when Swansea had a £100,000 offer accepted, but the deal fell through.

April 28, 2010

Season ticket deadline approaches

The "Early Bird" prices for season tickets for next season expire on Friday, with increased prices applying from May 1st - especially for Category C season ticket holders, who will see much larger price rises than for the other two categories. The Keepmoat Stadium web site indicates that 2,388 season tickets have been bought so far - but we expect a surge in applications by deadline day, as supporters try to avoid paying the increase, whilst holding on to their money as long as they can.
The ticket office will be open until 4.30pm today, between 9am and 7pm tomorrow, and between 9am and 4pm on Friday (30th April)
Please note that the new season ticket books have not yet arrived; they are expected to be delivered by mid-June, but it seems that they are expecting supporters to collect them!
Whilst prices go up from May 1st, current season ticket holders will ahve their seats reserved until 31st May, after which they will be made available to other supporters.
For your information, season ticket prices are as follows:
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 28, 2010

Sharp wins two awards

On-loan star striker Billy Sharp picked up two awards at the Rovers' awards evening which was held last weekend. He won the Players' Player of the Year award and the Golden Boot, which is given to the club's top goal scorer of the season.
Defender James O'Connor was named as the Supporters' Player of the Year, with fellow defender Gareth Roberts scoring the Goal of the Season with his stunning shot against Peterborough last month.
The Team Performance of the Season was deemed to be the 2-0 win at Hillsborough in February.

April 28, 2010

Rovers miss out on TV date

Two Championship games have been selected for live TV coverage on the vital last day of the season. The Sheffield Wednesday v Crystal Palace clash, which is a 'winner takes all' match if ever there was one, will be broadcast on BBC 1, whilst Sky Sports have chosen the Blackpool v Bristol City game. Blackpool are currently in sixth place, and a win will confirm their place in the play-offs. However, if Swansea City, who entertain Doncaster Rovers on Sunday, were to win and Blackpool fail to pick up three points, then the Welsh club would sneak into sixth place - so many Rovers fans will be disappointed that the TV companies snubbed the clash at the Liberty Stadium.
Please remember that all matches, including both TV games, kick off at 1pm this Sunday.

April 28, 2010

Voting results

We apologise for the delay in confirming the results of the "Man of the Match" voting for Saturday's home game against Scunthorpe United. It turned into a very keen contest between two loan players, Jay Emmanuel Thomas and Jordon Mutch, with the young Birmingham midfielder just finishing ahead. There were eight players receiving nominations, with those receiving most votes being as follows:
1 Jordon Mutch (28.26%)
2 Jay Emmanuel Thomas (26.09%)
3 James Coppinger (15.22%)
4 James Hayter (10.87%)
Once again, we thank everyone for taking the time to place their votes. The final vote of the season will open on Sunday evening following the away game at Swansea City, which will mark the end of our eighth season of the competition. During the summer break we will announce the final results - every single vote placed this season will go towards the Player of the Season. Who will win? You'll have to wait to find out!

April 28, 2010

Shelton has eyes on the Premiership

It's not just John Ryan that has a dream of Doncaster Rovers reaching the Premier League - central defender Shelton Martis also believes that Rovers can do it.
Speaking to the Daily Mirror after Saturday's encounter with Scunthorpe United, he said: “Other clubs have done it, such as Burnley and Stoke, so why not us? We have played well against the best teams in the division this season, but the results haven’t always reflected that. It’s about being that little bit more consistent and the manager knows what he needs to bring in to improve us. We’ve got the facilities here. Everything is in place.”
Martis also is aware that he must improve if Rovers are to progress next season. He said: “I can be a bit quiet on the pitch sometimes . And my body language isn’t always what it should be. I need to organise things a bit more and be more vocal with the players – shout at times.’

April 28, 2010

Market on verge of history

Former Doncaster Rovers defender Kevin Horlock is part of a Needham Market side which is on the verge of creating history. They need just three points to be certain of their first-ever Ridgeons League Premier Division title, with two games to go. They will be presented with the trophy this evening if they win at Kirkley & Pakefield. If not, it all goes down to the last match of the season, with Needham having to win at Dereham Town, whilst CRC, their nearest rivals, are at home to bottom team Wivenhoe Town.
Horlock joined Needham Market in August 2008 after leaving Scunthorpe United at the end of the previous season.

April 27, 2010

Now Greeny's Irish!

We would like to congratulate former Doncaster Rovers midfielder Paul Green, who is one of eight uncapped players in a 23 man squad named by Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni for a summer training camp in Malahide from May 16th to May 21st.
The call-up comes despite the fact that Paul was born in Pontefract, West Yorkshire! Apparently he qualifies for the Irish team through his grandfather on his mother's side of the family.
Paul, now aged 27, left Doncaster Rovers on a free transfer to join Derby County for the 2008/09 season, with his last match for Rovers being the unforgettable play-off final at Wembley.
His boss at Derby County, Nigel Clough, said of the news: “It is fantastic news for Paul and Derby County that his performances have been recognised with this call-up. Paul has been a strong and consistent performer for us this season and we have been very pleased with his form. It will be a great experience for Paul and something that will only benefit him a player.”
The full squad for the training camp is:
Goalkeepers: Keiren Westwood (Coventry City), Joe Murphy (Scunthorpe Utd), Brian Murphy (Ipswich Town)
Defenders: Stephen Kelly (Fulham), Eddie Nolan (Sheffield Wednesday), Paul McShane (Hull City), Shane Duffy (Everton), Kevin Foley (Wolves), Stephen Ward (Wolves), Marc Wilson (Portsmouth), Darren O’Dea (Celtic)
Midfielders: Keith Treacy (Preston North End), Darron Gibson (Manchester Utd), Andy Keogh (Wolves), James McCarthy (Wigan), Liam Lawrence (Stoke City), David Meyler (Sunderland), Keith Fahey (Birmingham City), Paul Green (Derby County)
Forwards: Caleb Folan (Hull City), Leon Best (Newcastle Utd), Shane Long (Reading), Anthony Stokes (Hibernian).

April 27, 2010

Mutch extends stay with Rovers

Birmingham City have confirmed that they have agreed to the extension of the loan of youngster Jordon Mutch until the end of the season. The 18-year old's previous deal ran out after Saturday's match, so the extension means that he will now be able to play in the season's final match at Swansea. Jordon has played most of his games for Rovers as a substitute, but started Saturday's game against Scunthorpe and scored Rovers' second goal just before half time. Jordon has played 16 games (12 as substitute), scoring two goals since arriving at the Keepmoat Stadium.

April 27, 2010	Terry quits the Rovers
	Doncaster Rovers have confirmed that Lottery manager Terry Burdass will leave the club on Friday after over six years at the club, during which time he has raised the profile of the Rovers lottery, so now over 3,000 take part each week. We would like to wish Terry all the best for the future.

April 27, 2010

Title holders win at Rovers Belles

Doncaster Rovers Belles went down to a 2-1 home defeat against the reigning Women's Premier League champions Arsenal at the Keepmoat Stadium on Sunday. The win puts the Londoners five points clear at the top of the table with chasing clubs running out of games to play. Two first half goals by Arsenal made it an uphill battle for John Buckley's team, with Precious Hamilton's 84th minute goal coming too late to salvage a point from the game.
Doncaster Rovers Belles are virtually certain to finish in 6th place this season, with an outside chance of fifth, with just one match to play, which is away at Bristol Academy this coming Sunday afternoon.

April 27, 2010

Swansea ticket update

Tickets for Sunday's away game at Swansea City - the final game of the 2009/10 season - continue to be on sale at the Keepmoat Stadium ticket office. At the moment, the stadium website is reporting that 379 of the 793 tickets have been sold. Please remember that this is an all-ticket match and no tickets will be on sale in Swansea on Sunday, so please do not travel if you have not already bought a ticket.
Tickets are now on general sale at the following prices:
Adults: £25.00
Senior Citizens (60+): £13.00
Students in full-time education: £15.00 (proof required at turnstiles)
Under-16s: £10.00
Ambulant/wheelchair disabled: £25.00 (carer admitted free)

April 27, 2010

Mills slams dismal Reading performance

Former Doncaster Rovers defender Matthew Mills has given a withering attack on the performance of Reading on Saturday, which saw them beated 3-0 by Watford, who were, until that point, one of the candidates for relegation from the Championship.
Mills had just returned to the side after a four match ban, but was mystified about exactly what went wrong in the game.
He said: “It’s difficult to put a finger on what went wrong. We were disappointed not to get the penalty early on. But credit to them, they worked hard and at the end of the day we weren’t good enough and we definitely owe the fans a performance on Sunday [against Preston].
“Watford worked hard, the pitch was in awful condition and when you try to press a team like that the ball is bobbling all over the place and it’s hard to play football."
He added: “The fans were a different class at Watford and it was a proper party atmosphere, it’s a shame we couldn’t give them something to cheer for. Whenever I put a Reading shirt on I will always give 100 per cent and I felt I did that. But performances like that aren’t acceptable and we have to learn from it, the biggest disappointment was letting down our following. It was a strange game, but you can’t comprehend a bad pitch and decisions. You want to finish the season on a win as it can play on your mind over the summer break.”

April 26, 2010

Billy drops hint at Rovers return

On-loan striker Billy Sharp may have played his last game of the season after suffering a torn thigh muscle against Barnsley before Easter, but he has dropped a tantalising hint that Rovers fans may not have seen the last of him in a red and while hooped shirt.
Sharp signed on a season-long loan from Sheffield United after clearly not being in Kevin Blackwell's plans at Bramall Lane, and went on to be a huge success and a firm favourite with Rovers fans, scoring 15 league goals during the season - the elusive 20 goal mark denied him when injury cruelly cut short his season six matches from the end.
Sharp told the Yorkshire Evening Post: "I've got a year left at Sheffield United and if I'm not in his (Blackwell's) plans, then obviously I'll be looking to move. The chairman of Donny (John Ryan) has already asked if I'd be interested (in moving) and I've told him yes.I'll go on my holidays and see what unfolds and we'll see what happens this summer."
"I said I wanted to go and get the smile back on my face when I came to Doncaster and enjoy my football again and I've enjoyed every single minute; it couldn't have gone any better for me really. It's such a good club, with good staff and lads and it was the perfect move for me, really. I spoke to a few people there and they said: 'Yes, you will enjoy it here' and I just thought that I may as well give it a go. And it couldn't have gone any better really."
"I'm happy with my season, but just gutted I can't play one more minute even, just to say thanks to the fans. But I suppose these things happen, don't they? It's the worst thing, being injured as a footballer. When I thought I had a dead leg, I thought I'd miss the Easter games and that the Scunthorpe match was maybe the one I was hoping to probably get back for, but I've only just started to bend my leg, so there's no way I'll be back again this season."

April 26, 2010

Youth team slump to another defeat

The Doncaster Rovers youth team finished their Youth Alliance season on Tuesday evening with another defeat, this time a 2-0 defeat at Chesterfield, which means that Rovers finish 10th in a 14 team division, with Notts County, Mansfield Town, Burton Albion, Rotherham United finishing lower than them.
Unfortunately, yet again we have to rely on a match report from the opposition's point of view, but it seems that even though Chesterfield's youths, managed by former Rover Dave Bentley, chose to include a number of their under-16s a first taste of Youth Alliance football, they were too strong for Rovers. Whilst accepting that the match report that appears on Chesterfield's site has a fair degree of bias towards their team, it does seem that Chesterfield put their Rovers counterparts under pressure for most of the match and Rovers were a little lucky to only concede two goals.
The result means that Rovers have won just once since early February - that was against bottom club Rotherham United - and probably suggests that few, if any, youth players will progress through to be offered a professional contract this summer.

April 26, 2010

Brabin - the rumour mill starts again

Former Rovers midfielder Gary Brabin is one of the early favourites for the managerial vacancy at AFC Telford following the departure of Rob Smith and assistant Larry Chambers. Brabin has been in the running for a number of jobs at Conference level, but currently is Chief Scout for Luton Town, who are currently second in the Blue Square Premier.
The Telford job is seen as being one of the "most attractive outside the top four divisions", according to former Bucks defender Neil Howarth. Speculation is already runnign rife, with former Telford player and ex-TNS boss Ken McKenna rumoured to have already been approached, something with chairman Lee Carter has denied.
Brabin is considered a serious contender, having had success at both Southport and Cambridge United.

April 24, 2010

Rovers 4 Scunthorpe United 3

Brian Stock was recalled to the starting eleven despite being named on the substitutes' bench for this afternoon's home game against Scunthorpe United, with John Oster dropping out at the last minute, presumably due to an injury sustained in the warm-up. The match that followed had a bit of everything - superb finishing for goals, hapless defending allowing shots and goals, superb saves by both goalkeepers, shots missed from point-blank range that really should have been goals - and, of course, the usual array of missed handballs and penalties that we've seen all season. It turned out to be an entertaining encounter and not the stale end of season match that could have been on display - yet Rovers were lucky to come away with all three points, and it took a late headed goal by Shelton Martis (although we're sure someone else got the final touch) to give Rovers victory. Earlier in the game, the Rovers defence allowed Scunthorpe's top scorer Gary Hooper far too much space to fire a shot out of the reach of a diviing Neil Sullivan. Rovers were back on level terms a couple of minutes later when Jay Emmanuel Thomas delightfully chipped the keeper from 10 yards out. Rovers went in front on the stroke of half time a Jordan Mutch stabbed the ball home from close range after having two previous attempts go (very) wide of the target.
Scunthorpe were back on level terms when the Rovers central defenders went AWOL to give Paul Hayes the time and space to fire into the bottom right corner of the net - that made it 2-2. Rovers then went back in front, thanks to a weak shot from James Hayter that evaded the keeper to go in off the post, but the scoring still hadn't finished. Scunthorpe drew level when Gary Hooper scored his second of the game, but the final word went to Shelton Martis, who powerfully headed home from a corner a minute from time.

April 25, 2010

What the managers said

It may have been a feast of goals for the supporters, but both managers ended up being highly critical of their defences which leaked seven goals between them on a sun-soaked afternoon at the Keepmoat Stadium.
Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll commented after the game: "I think if the two teams played like that all season we wouldn't be in this division, we would be relegated. It might have been a great spectacle for people to watch, which is fair enough at the end of the season, and there was some great attacking play at times, but there was also some comical defending from both teams. Some of our attacking play I thought was excellent but defensively we were all over the shop and some of the goals that we conceded were ridiculous."
"Some of our attacking play was excellent but some of our defending was as poor as we have seen all season. I think you could probably say the same about them; some of their attacking play was good and some of their defending was poor."
" But you have to take the whole season as a whole and I think that the players have been magnificent. They have bounced back from everything and, even today, they did the same when things weren't going their way. They don't need me telling them that some of the things they were doing weren't right - but they plugged away and they came away with a victory. I suppose that is the be-all and end-all."
Interestingly, O'Driscoll continued: "I think we're not as good a team as we were last year to be fair. We've lost two key players (Richie Wellens and Matt Mills) and we've managed really well to plug the gaps and put together a team that's competitive playing the way we want to play. I don't think we've played as well as we did last season but aspects of our play have been excellent and I can't fault the players' effort. Their attitude has been first class and they know this is a difficult division."
O'Driscoll's opposite number yesterday, Nigel Adkins, had a similar view of yesterday's game. He said: "Our group of players worked their socks off again today. It was an emotional time on Tuesday night as the lads secured their Championship status. The players had a late night and to come out and put in the work rate they did today was tremdendous. We'll score goals and we'll concede goals, and some of the ones we let in were poor - that's been the story of our season. We scored some great goals again. Gary Hooper worked really hard and scored two goals but it wasn't to be."
"It was a cracking game for the supporters, and both sets would have found the game enjoyable. We're both going to be in the Championship next season and we can play this derby again next season."

April 25, 2010

Goals review

We begin our review of former Rovers players scoring goals yesterdy at Port Vale, where Graeme Lee equalised for Notts County in their League Two match at Vale Park. Despite eventually going down to a 2-1 defeat, County still are still top of the table with just two games to go.
The only other goal scored by a former Rover we've spotted so far is certainly not a new name! The career of Neil Grayson just keeps on going, a full 19 years after he left Doncaster Rovers. Yesterday he scored one of Glapwell's four goals in their 4-2 win at Brigg Town in the UniBond Division One (South), which means that Glapwell finished in third place to qualify for the end of season play-offs, along with Chasetown, Kidsgrove Athletic and Sheffield FC.

April 25, 2010

Oster injury update

John Oster had to pull out of yesterday's game against Scunthorpe United at the last minute after picking up a knee injury in the pre-match warm-up, which forced Brian Stock to make an unscheduled start.
After the game, boss Sean O'Driscoll explained what happened. "He'll have a scan on Monday, but it looks as though he has tweaked his knee cartilage, John's gone through the whole season and the only thing he has had is a tight hamstring for one game. He's never missed a day's training and then he comes out today and tweaks his knee cartilage. He wasn't fit to start the game and in many ways it made it easier with Brian Stock on the bench."

April 25, 2010

Ferguson after Elliott?

Preston North End manager Darren Ferguson is considering making a move for Coventry City defender Elliott Ward, who played for Doncaster Rovers on loan for a month this season. Ward is out of contract at the Sky Blues this summer, but the ultimate decision seems to be, like with most clubs, what budget Ferguson is given to work with next term.
Ferguson said of his three loan players: "I have to take the three of them into the equation with the budget and I think I have said before that I am looking to extend Matty's loan for another year and I think that will get done. We still have two games left and I have already had one meeting with the board, but we'll probably have to have one or two more to decide exactly where we are going to go and that will make my mind up on them."

April 24, 2010

Rovers v Scunthorpe

Doncaster Rovers may welcome back club skipper Brian Stock for today's home game against Scunthorpe United. Stock has been out of action for several weeks with a back complaint, but has been back in training for two weeks after an injection appears to have resolved the problem. Hints from interviews this week make it fairly certain that he will be included in the squad today - the main uncertainty being whether he will start or be included as a substitute. He came through a 'behind closed doors' friendly with Birmingham City earlier this week without any problems to put himself in contention to play.
Jason Shackell's hopes of making a return for the final home game of the season appear to be dashed, according to an interview with Sean O'Driscoll this week.
Also missing will be midfielder Martin Woods, who had a groin operation on Monday, whilst former Iron striker Billy Sharp misses out on the chance to line up against his former club due to a thigh injury.
There has been conflicting news concerning James Coppinger - the Free Press reported that he has not trained for much of this week, yet the Doncaster Star quotes Richard O'Kelly saying that he has been training and is set to return to the squad.
Apart from that, Steve Brooker and Byron Webster will miss the rest of the season with ankle and foot injuries respectively.
Scunthorpe United are likely to name the same squad that turned out against Reading on Tuesday, with defenders Michael Raynes (ankle), Jim McNulty (ankle), Marcus Williams (hamstring) and Rob Jones all unlikely to have recovered from injuries in time for this weekend.
Kenny Milne may come into consideration after being rested for the midweek game, with Sam Togwell, Michael O'Connor and Josh Wright will be hoping for a recall to the match day squad.
Rovers will have to keep a close eye on Iron striker Gary Hooper, who has scored 17 goals in the Championship so far this season.

April 24, 2010	Today's match officials
	The match officials for this afternoon's home game against Scunthorpe United have been confirmed as: Referee: Andy d'Urso Assistants referees: Michael Naylor & Jason Tyas Fourth official: Stephen Ross

April 24, 2010

Moore - a shining example

Barnsley boss Mark Robins has urged the younger members of his squad to follow the examplt of their veteran central defender Darren Moore. Although he celebrated his 36th birthday on Thursday, he has remained a first team regular this season and has, as always, led by example.
Speaking this week, Robins said: "There has been a lot of hype and a lot of talk about some young players we've got, but you still have to make things happen in football. Darren is a shining example of this. He's almost 36 now and he has had a wonderful career, right up to Premier level. He's done everything. Many young players ought to try and emulate what he's worked hard for and gone on and achieved. He's a great personality, a great leader, and a great player."
Moore's career dates back to 1992, when he began with Torquay United, where he made over 100 appearances before moving to Docnaster Rovers in 1995 for a £62,500 fee. He had a highly successful two years at Belle Vue before moving to Bradford City - and just two years later he signed for Portsmouth in a £500,000 deal. Two years later and he moved on to West Bromwich Albion for £750,000 before moving to Derby County and finally Barnsley in 2008.

April 24, 2010

Ex-Rovers stars feature in charity game

Several former Doncaster Rovers players featured in a game to celebrate the centenary of Guiseley AFC last Sunday. The charity match was played between a Guisely XI who featured in their two FA Vase finals at Wembley in 1991 and 1992, and an ex-Leeds United XI - Guiseley won the match 5-1, with the sole Leeds goal coming from former Rovers midfielder Neil Redfear.
Also mentioned as taking part in the game are former Rovers stars Ian Snodin, Brendan Ormsby, John Stiles and Vince Brockie, although former Rovers defender Paul Bottomley was denied the chance to play when he was unable to return to the UK from India due to the suspension of flights due to the infamous volcanic ash cloud which has covered the UK.

April 23, 2010

Now Keane joins Ryan in criticising new parachute plan

Ipswich Town manager Roy Keane has now joined Rovers chairman John Ryan in criticising plans to change the 'parachute payments' made to clubs relegated from the Premier League. Plans are on the table to extend these payments to four years from the current two, meaning that clubs relegated from the Premier League will have even more of a financial advantage than they have at the moment. Under the plans, relegated clubs would get £16 million for the first two years, and £8 million in the following two yeras. The proposal was discussed at a recent meeting of Premier League chairmen, but no vote was taken, with a final decision to be taken at their summer meeting in June, should an agreement with the Football League be reached.
A number of chairmen in Football League clubs, including John Ryan, are worried that this will increase the advantage of former Premier League clubs over others competing in the Football League.
Ryan said: "I don't think this is fair. It makes it even less of a level playing field in the Championship. Most of the teams relegated already go straight back up – Newcastle and West Brom. This move is against the merits of sport. Fairytales of the past will no longer happen. We have a budget of £6m. How can we compete with Newcastle United on £42m? There is a danger that the Championship will become Premier League Mark II with all the teams receiving parachute payments at the top and all the others at the bottom. It's a sad day when promotion and relegation is decided by cash."
Roy Keane is also wary of the problems that clubs who have no Premier League experience will face in the future. He commented: "It's going to be very, very difficult. I'd like to know what clubs voted for that. The bottom three must have definitely voted for it, so it's going to be extra hard I have to say. You look at the teams that have gone up this year. Obviously West Brom came down, and Newcastle, so they'll always be strong anyway, but now they are given these extra few years and the extra money, so the longer you are out of the Premier League, it's just going to get tougher and tougher.It's not just Ipswich, but it applies to all the other clubs who have been in the Championship for a long time."
"But that's why we do it, because it's the challenge - can we do it?"

April 23, 2010

Wilson out to prove the Iron wrong

Rovers midfielder Mark Wilson is out to get revenge on his home-town club tomorrow when Doncaster Rovers face Scunthorpe United at the Keepmoat Stadium - the last home game of the 2009/10 season.
Wilson still recalles that he was rejected by Scunthorpe when he was a teenager - yet a few weeks later he had been signed up by Manchester United. Scunthorpe were then managed by Dave Cowling, who spent a few days as manager in the infamous 1997/98 season, but turned Mark down as he felt he wasn't good enough.
Wilson is one of a large number of Rovers players out of contract this summer, but is hoping that Sean O'Driscoll will offer him a new contract.
He told the Doncaster Star: "I've been here four years and I feel part of the place, but, as I have said before, the decision is not really down to me."
Of tomorrow's game, Wilson said: "They have got some good players there and manager Nigel Adkins and his coaching staff try to do the right things and try and get the team playing the right way.They are certainly a better home side than away side. That makes it even more frustrating that we threw two points away when drawing at Glanford Park earlier in the season."
"It will be a different game on Saturday. The Keepmoat Stadium is a bigger pitch and I think it will be more open. I am looking forward to the game as are the rest of the lads. We all enjoy derby games. It's our last home game of the season and we want to go out on a winning note."

April 23, 2010

Kids arrive home at last

The youngsters of the Doncaster Rovers Under-13 and Under-14 teams finally made it home this week after being stranded in Italy due to the recent suspension of flights due to the volcanic ash cloud which affected Northern Europe. The group of 47 were rescued when a Doncaster coach firm sent a coach out to bring them back to the UK. The coach arrived in Italy on Wednesday, and finally got back to Doncaster on Thursday afternoon.
The youngsters had been on a short tour of Italy, playing matches against local sides during their stay there - but their trip was unexpectedly extended when their flight last Sunday was cancelled.

April 23, 2010

Season ticket info for tomorrow

Please note that Early Bird Season Tickets will only be on sale until midday tomorrow, with only tickets for tomorrow's game against Scunthorpe United being on sale after that time. However, the club have said that supporters are welcome to leave application forms with the Ticket Office or Main Reception after that time, and the Ticket Office staff will deal with those applications next week. Supporters can also send their renewal forms in by post to avoid having to wait at the stadium.
The ticket office address is: Ticket Office, Keepmoat Stadium, Stadium Way, Doncaster, South Yorkshire DN4 5JW

April 23, 2010

Shackell unlikely for tomorrow

Star on-loan defender Jason Shackell looks as though he will not be involved in tomorrow's game against Scunthorpe United, but the player still has hopes of playing in the final game of the season at Swansea.
Boss Sean O'Driscoll said: "We were never planning to involve Jason, but like every player out injured, he wanted to be involved before the end of the season. That has been his motivation and he has done everything that he possibly can. He's split his time between Wolves and here and he joined in training for the first time today. Again, we will see how he is and how he reacts before we make a decision."
"We sort of pushed him through for the Nottingham Forest game and he ended up having an operation through it; so we are a bit wary but, ultimately, the decision lies with Wolves."
Unfortunately it looks unlikely that Jason will be a Doncaster Rovers player next season, unless the two clubs can agree another loan deal. O'Driscoll explained: "We've never made a secret of the fact that we would like to keep Jason at the Club. He's done really well and he fits in. If it is possible and we could, but he was a £500,000 buy from Norwich - so that transfer fee puts it well out of our transfer capabilities."

April 22, 2010

Penney keen on Lewis staying

Oldham Athletic manager Dave Penney has confirmed that he is interested in signing Doncaster Rovers striker Lewis Guy at the end of the season. However, much of the decision depends on what budget Penney is given for next term, along with contract negotiations with the player and the outcome of negotiations with other Oldham players who will be out of contract this summer.
Penney told Oldham's official site: "Lewis is out of contract as are a lot of other players in the summer. A lot will depend on whether we can afford him so we will have see where we are, what the budget is and see what we can do with our players who are out of contract."
"He is bright, sharp and lively and causes centre halves problems. He has done well for us and has been taking the chances that have come his way."
"A lot will depend on whether we can afford him so we will have a see where we are, what the budget is and see what we can do with our players who are out of contract."

April 22, 2010

Spicer deal to be extended

Rovers midfielder John Spicer is set to have his loan deal at Leyton Orient extended until the end of the season after doing well in his first few games at the club. Spicer's loan is due to run out after Saturday's match at Millwall, but the club are hopeful that Rovers will agree to extend the loan for another two matches. Leyton Orient are currently four points above the bottom four in League One with three games still to play.

April 22, 2010

Man of the Match result

It was perhaps not suprising that the number of votes received from Saturday's away game at Ipswich Town was down on the number we have received so far this season., with it being an expensive match to attend, as well as it being a typical end of season affair.
As it was, midfielder John Oster was again the clear winner of the voting, receiving 57.14% of the votes cast, coming well ahead of the other five players who received nominations.
We thank everyone who took the trouble to place their vote and apologise for the delay in confirming the winner. All votes cast go towards the "Player of the Season" totals which will be revealed

April 22, 2010

Stock hopes for recall

Rovers midfielder Brian Stock is hoping for a recall to the Rovers team for the final two matches of the season after successfully returning to training recently. Last weekend's game at Ipswich was said to be a little too early for him to be considered, but Brian is hopeful of being included this time around.
As well as getting back to playing, his recall to the Welsh international squad for next month's game against Croatia depends on him playing football before the end of the season.
He told the BBC: "John Toshack phoned me and said he wants to include me but he's worried about me not playing, but it's one of them where you can't take a player who's not match-fit for one game. I just have to wait and see."
"Unfortunately I have missed games and missed the chance to play more international football as it's a great honour to play for Wales. I would like to get in some future squads. If you've got someone like John Toshack's name appearing on your phone it puts a smile on your face. It's great for him to do this sort of thing and it gives the players in the squad hope that they have a chance of still getting back into the squad."

April 21, 2010

Kevin in cup final

Former Rovers defender Kevin Horlock faced his former club, Ipswich Town, on Monday evening when they faced Needham Market in the Suffolk Premier Cup Final at Portman Road. Ipswich boss Roy Keane gave a game to number of players who missed out on playing against Doncaster Rovers on Saturday, meaning that Needham Market faced a tough challenge, bearing in mind that they play at Level 4 of the non-league structure, and Ipswich play in the Championship.
Needham were without a game at the weekend, so Horlick played in an Ipswich Town "Legends" team against Nortich City at Great Yarmouth on Sunday.
Ahead of the game, Horlock said: “Thanks to Needham I’m got the same appetite for the game as I’ve always had and in Danny Laws we have an exceptional manager. I’m amazed that he hasn’t moved up to the Football League.I’ve worked with many coaches in my career and Danny is up there with the best of them.”
Despite fearing that his side may get "a hiding", Horlock said “On our day we can put on a good show, but if we do get turned over it will an experience for our young players and it has to be good to be playing against the best players around. Our main aim is to advance up the football ladder and to follow Lowestoft’s example. The Ridgeons League is notoriously difficult to get out of, and we feel we can do ourselves justice if we do.”
Needham Market were the beaten finalists last season, going down to defeat against Lowestoft Town - and their fortunes did not improve on Monday, when Ipswich Town beat them 4-1.

April 21, 2010

Goals review

With a number of games played last night, particularly at non-league level, there were a few former Rovers players scoring goals.
Defender Kevin Sandwith scored for Oxford United in the 82nd minute of their home game against Wrexham. The 1-0 win means they are now certain to finish in the top three of the Blue Square Premier, and are just a point behind second placed Luton Town. Rushden & Diamonds and York City are confirmed as the other clubs in the play-offs - both are eight points behind Oxford with only one game to play.
In the UniBond Premier Division, former Rovers striker Jamie Barnwell scored North Ferriby United's first goal in their 2-0 win at bottom club Durham City, whilst in the UniBond Division One (South), Robbie Clarke, on loan from Rovers for the rest of the season, scored the only goal of the game as Brigg Town won at Sheffield FC.

April 21, 2010

Coach update for Swansea game

The Supporters Club have asked that anyone wanting to travel by their coaches to the final game of the season at Swansea City a week on Saturday should book by this weekend, so that they can ensure the right number of coaches are booked, especially since it is a Bank Holiday weekend.
Please remember that there will be no trains available to get supporters to the game on the Sunday morning ahead of kick-off time, meaning fans either have to travel on coaches, make their own way there or travel down on the Saturday.
Coaches will depart Retford at 5.45am, Harworth 5.50am, Bawtry & Rossington 6.00am, Hare & Tortoise 6.05am, Doncaster Royal Infirmary 6.15am and Keepmoat Stadium Car Park 1 at 6.30am.
Please book your place by phoning Paul Mayfield on 01427 880154 or 07961 727769, Len South (01302 817347), Harry Bacon (01302 854626 or 0795 2098772), Dave Hickling (07910 090289) or Dave at the Travel Club on 01302 328707 or 07901 9866863.
Please note the depature times, as we understand that the wrong times were listed in the West Bromwich Albion programme.

April 21, 2010

Town target Gillett?

Ipswich's local press is suggesting that Ipswich Town and Doncaster Rovers are leading the chase for Southampton midfielder Simon Gillett. The 24-year old diminuitive midfielder is out of contract at the end of the season and looks set to leave the club after only being occasionally included in the first team match day squad at St Mary's, playing one Carling Cup game and five substitute appearances.
He joined Rovers on loan in October, and it looked as though a full move had been agreed in the January transfer window. However, terms were not agreed - various reports suggested that either personal terms with the player could not be agreed, or that Southampton had asked for a transfer fee after initially indicating that the player was available on a free transfer.
Ahead of Saturday's match against Rovers, Town boss Roy Keane said that he had targeted "one or two players whose contracts are up" this summer, with Gillett said to be viewed as a direct replacement for Jack Colback, who will return to Sunderland at the end of his loan spell.

April 21, 2010

Wheater KO for rest of season

Former Rovers loan defender David Wheater has probably played his last game of the season after he damaged ankle ligaments in training last week. The 23 year old missed Saturday's game against West Bromwich Albion on Saturday because of the injury, and boss Gordon Strachan fears Wheater has played his last game of the season. Strachan said: "It's unfortunate because I think David and Mick [Stephen] McManus were getting something together. We went about eight games undefeated so they have done well. It was just a freak accident in training, so it's a pity for the big fella because he was finding a bit of form and I think he enjoyed playing with Mick. I don't think he will be fit for the rest of the season."
Wheater is tipped to attract transfer interest from Premiership clubs in the summer, although he still has 12 months left on his contract and has expressed a desire to stay at the club. However, he is one of Boro's most saleable assets and may be sacrificed to help fund Strachan's team rebuilding plans.

April 20, 2010

O'Driscoll - season won't fizzle out

Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll has insisted that Rovers will not lose their focus in the final two games of the season, despite having little to play for. Rovers are in with a chance of beting last season's 14th place finish - and could beat the club's best-ever 11th place finish, but they will need to pick up points from their final matches to do so.
O'Driscoll commented after Saturday's game at Ipswich: "It's difficult coming to the end of the season. You want to maintain certain things and we've said to the players that we felt we've done that over the last three or four games. We've maintained a level of performance and a level of desire - and a level of enthusiasm - that has unfortunately not got us any points, but it was a good point for us at Ipswich going forward with two games left to go. We have a big local derby next weekend and an away trip to Swansea, where you think they may need something from the game to cement their play-off place. They're both big games for us."
O'Driscoll also moved to deny some comments attributed to him last week that he was frustrated at working with a tight budget for next season.
He told the Doncaster Free Press: "That's not what I was saying at all. We all have to work within budgets and the fact is that some clubs are going to have to cut their costs drastically this summer. Whether we are one of them remains to be seen. What I have to do is manage the budget I am given to the best of my ability. That's what I get paid for. There is a tendency in football to let your heart rule your head but that's not sensible and can lead to ruin. I think a lot of clubs in the Championship will have to cut their cloth next season and that could lead to a more level playing field - although the big clubs will always have an advantage."

April 20, 2010

Stock in with chance of Euro qualifying matches?

It seems that, despite missing much of the second half of the season due to injury, Rovers midfielder Brian Stock is in with a chance of playing for Wales in their Euro 2012 qualifying matches early next season. It looks likely that Welsh boss John Toshack will snub Ryan Giggs' offer to play for his country, despite a previous retirement from international football being announced by the player.
With the absence of Jack Collinson, who is having knee surgery next week and Aaron Ramsey, who suffered a horrendous leg injury against Stoke recently, the Welsh midfield looks low in numbers, but Toshack is reported to be set to show loyalty to his crop of young midfielders who have played in recent matches. Those players mentioned in the Welsh press as likely to be included in Toshack's squad are: David Edwards, Joe Ledley, Simon Davies, Andy King, Brian Stock and Andrew Crofts.
Stock looks as though he may be in with a chance of playing in next Saturday's home game against Scunthorpe United after successfully returning to training a week ago.

April 20, 2010

Kids stuck in Italy

The youth team at Under-13 and Under-14 levels have been on a mini-tour of Italy, but their return has been delayed by the cancellation of flights due to the closure of UK airspace as a result of the volcanic ash. They had been due to fly back with Ryan Air on Sunday, but coaches have now been sent out to Italy to bring the group back to the UK. They are expected to be back in Doncaster at 2pm this afternoon.

April 20, 2010

Carlisle hint at move for JJ

Carlisle boss Greg Abbot has dropped the strongest hint yet that he is looking to sign former Rovers striker Jason Price on a full contract for next season. Price has been a big success at Carlisle, although he has missed the last couple of matches with a hamstring injury, but has admitted that he is playing for his future, with his contract at Millwall due to end this summer.
Abbott hinted that he wants to sign all three of his loan players - Jason Price, along with Ben Marshall and Adam Clayton. He said: "All three have done exceptionally well for us. If you look at our results since Jason has come to the club, they have been terrific. Adam has proved what a good player he is and while Ben is a relative baby, the time he has had with us has benefited both him and the team and I would be interested in having him back here. That would depend on what Stoke City’s plans are, and other clubs might be interested in the likes of Ben and Adam as well.”
Price is expected to return to the Carlisle side for Saturday's away game at Southampton.

April 20, 2010

Scunny tickets update

Tickets for Saturday's home game against local rivals Scunthorpe United seem to be selling slowly, according to the figures currently showing on the Keepmoat Stadium website. Scunthorpe have sold 759 tickets out of their 2,020 allocation, with 8,214 Rovers tickets (including season ticket holders) having been sold. Unless there is a large surge in sales, it looks like being the first sub-five figure crowd since the Crystal Palace game in February, but with little to play for for both clubs, maybe the lack of interest is understandable.
Tickets will be on sale until kick-off, with the prices being:
Catebory A - Adults £23, Concessions £17, Juniors 12-16 £17, 11 & under £10
Category B - Adults £20, Concessions £14, Juniors 12-16 £13, 11 & under £5

April 19, 2010

Youth Team 1 Hull City 4

Hull City celebrated winning the Youth Alliance North East Conference on Saturday when they recorded a 4-1 victory over Doncaster Rovers at Cantley Park, despite having two games still to play. Rovers went in front with a first half goal, with the Tigers responding after the break with goals from Dean Deagle, Joe Fox, Mark Cullen and Richard Overment.
The result is the latest in a sequence of disappointing scores for the Rovers youngsters in recent weeks, with their only victory since early February being a win over bottom club Rotherham United.
The Rovers youth team's final game of the season is tomorrow afternoon when they travel to Chesterfield.

April 19, 2010

Nicol gets 100th win

Steve Nicol, who played for Doncaster Rovers immediately before going to the United States to begin his management career in Boston, registered the 100th win of his managerial career last Sunday when New England Revolution beat Toronto 4-1 in their first home game of the season. Only two other people have logged 100 wins as managers in the history of the MLS.
A crowd of 12,798 saw Revolution convincingly win the game, with Nicol's knack for plucking unknown players out of the US transfer 'draft' system again bearing fruit. Since becoming a manager in the MLS, Nicol has gained a reputation of being able to run his teams on a lower budget than most other teams in the MLS - and his record of reaching the end-of-season play-offs is unsurpssed in US football. He tends to concentrate on young players with potential, and so far it has worked well - although last season they only finished 7th in a 15-team league, but Nicol was hampered by the loss of key players due to injury, as well as losing key defender Michael Parkhurst who joined Danish side Nordsjaelland.

April 19, 2010

Carlisle boss to check on Offiong

Carlisle boss Greg Abbott is, volcanic ash permitting, planning a trip to Sweden once the English season has finished to check on the progress of Carlisle's former Rovers striker Richard Offiong. The striker, who is currently on loan at Ostersunds, who play in the third division in Sweden, has struggled to hold down a first team place at Carlisle, and Abbott is hoping that the loan move will restore Richard's form and confidence.
Speaking ahead of this weekend's match, Abbott said: “It will be a good opportunity for me to go over to Sweden for a couple of days and see how he is doing. It is one thing saying he has scored two goals but I really need to see him live. I still think there is a player inside Richard. He hasn’t shown his best for us and I hope his time in Sweden will benefit him.”

April 19, 2010

Injury update

Various sources have given some updates on the state of play as far as injured players at Doncaster Rovers go.
Firstly, as we reported last week, midfielder Martin Woods is due to have surgery on his groin injury today in a bid to resolve the long-standing problem. The news means that he will be recovered and back to fitness in time for when the squad return to pre-season training at the beginning of July.
Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll told the Doncaster Free Press: "It was a blessing in disguise in a way. Martin needs a groin operation and will probably have it next Monday now. The sooner he gets it done the sooner he will be up and running and we'll have him back fit and ready for pre-season training."
Woods has missed recent matches with the injury, along with a bout of tonsilitis.
Rovers were without the services of midfielder James Coppinger, who was expected to return to the side after missing the West Bromwich Albion match with an ankle injury. It was initially thought to be only a minor knock, but the ankle still had not fully recovered in time for Saturday's game at Ipswich. With little to play for in the final few games, Sean O'Driscoll sees little point in rushing him back. He commented to DROS: "He trained on Friday, but his ankle still wasn't right. Again, you can push people through and I suppose he could have had a jab in it, but it's that stage of the season where the players' health is more important in the long-term. It's unfortunate, but touchwood he will be okay for next week."
Talismanic midfielder Brian Stock is hoped to return for Saturday's game against Scunthorpe. Stock returned to training just over a week ago after having an injection in his back in February, which seems to have resolved the problem - but, as for Coppinger, his manager sees no point in rushing him back before he is ready.
O'Driscoll said to the Doncaster Free Press: "Brian is very keen to play again but we are not going to take any chances and throw him in at the deep end if he is not ready. He was unfortunate to become injured when he did after playing well for Wales but we have to look at the bigger picture and we don't want him to have another back operation in the summer if we can help it."
There have been no further updates regarding other players - Jason Shackell is hoping to be fit to take part in the final game of the season, although that outcome is still in the balance. We also presume that long term injury victims Steve Brooker and Byron Webster will not play again this season.

April 19, 2010

Another goal

We omitted to mention in yesterday's update of former Rovers players scoring goals this weekend Darren Moore's contribution, scoring in the 35th of Barnsley's match at promotion chasing Swansea. The Tykes went down to a 3-1 defeat at the Liberty Stadium, which now leaves them in 17th place in the Championship table. Sheffield Wednesday's draw yesterday means that Barnsley are now statistically safe from relegation.

April 18, 2010

Ipswich Town 1 Rovers 1

After indications that James Coppinger had recovered from an ankle injury sustained in training a week ago, the Rovers winger was missing from the Rovers side named by Sean O'Driscoll for yesterday's game at Portman Road.
Despite both managers insisting that there was 'something to play for', the match was widely seen as a drab end of season affair which only sprang into life in the last 20 minutes when Ipswich went ahead when Connor Wickham took advantage of poor defending by Rovers. Their lead did not last long though, with Dean Shields being pushed to win Rovers a penalty in the last ten minutes. At least the result ends Rovers' run of three defeats, and stabilises them in 12th place in the table.
Rovers looked more threatening in the early stages, with Jay Emmanuel-Thomas and Gareth Roberts firing long-range shots in on the Ipswich goal, with the home side offering very little as an attacking force, with only one shot by Wickham being of note. Eventually Ipswich built up some momentum which led to their goal, but it took Rovers to take too long to clear the ball for them to take advantage.

April 18, 2010

What the managers said

After yesterday's game, Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll admitted that his side had been lucky to be given a penalty seven minutes from time. He commented: "We've benefited from this decision but in the last three games I've been on the receiving end, so we're either part of the problem or part of the solution. My view is that this was a soft one. You can see why the referee gave it. Technically it was a penalty because he pushed him in the back, but if it was given against me I'd be disappointed. Usually contact inside the area is different to contact outside the area. All managers will say they've had stonewall penalties turned down and we've had some horrific things that haven't been given for us. Then we get that one. It was the one major refereeing decision in the game and in my view we got away with it."
However, O'Driscoll thought that Rovers could have done better if they had been more incisive in their attacking play. He continued: "I thought we had enough possession to win but didn't work their goalkeeper enough. This is our second season in the Championship and we miss a cutting edge. It was our achilles heel in the first season and probably again this season, but we were missing five first team regulars and have an extremely small squad, so performance-wise we can't complain too much."
"We've lost the last three games and played twice as well, so performance-wise we're pleased."
Ipswich boss Roy Keane was left to reflect on a club record 19th draw of the season yesterday, which beat a record which was set in the 1990/91 season. He said: "It was frustrating. We gave a bad goal away and what you have to learn, even on your off-days, is that when you go one-up you win the game. We didn't do that and it was down to a bit of inexperience, I suppose. The game lacked a bit of quality, especially in the final third, someone to pick out the right pass at the right time. It was a bit hit and miss from both teams, especially in the final third, and that's where you need a cutting edge."
He continued: "We're disappointed, we had the chances to have killed the game off after we scored but a bit of inexperience cost us in terms of the penalty. Shane made a mistake initially and then having got caught out on the wrong side he should have let the lad have another touch away from goal because he still had a lot to do to beat our 'keeper."

April 18, 2010

The goals check

Lewis Guy's second goal for Oldham Athletic came in the 55th minute of yesterday's game at Carlisle United - the 2-1 win for Dave Penney's men almost puts them in a safe position in League One, being six points above the relegation places, with clubs below them having three or four games to play.
In League Two, Notts County had automatic promotion confirmed yesterday as they defeated Morecambe 4-1, with ex-Rovers midfielder Ricky Ravenhilll getting their second goal in the 14th minute. And no, he didn't get booked! With just one point separating County and second placed Rochdale, who were also promoted yesterday, the outcome of who will win the title looks like going to the last match.
Going down into the UniBond Premier League, former Rovers youth player Rob O'Brien scored a 90th minute penalty for Bradford Park Avenue in their 2-2 draw at Frickley Athletic.
In the same division, ex-Rovers striker Jamie Barnwell scored the only goal of the game for North Ferriby United in their home game against Worksop Town - and Andy Campbell scored Whitby Town's only goal in their 5-1 home defeat at the hands of Buxton - ex-Rovers defender Scott Maxfield being on the mark for Buxton in the 40th minute.
Finally, in the UniBond First Division (South), Tristram Whitman scored his 18th goal of the season in Carlton Town's 5-3 home win over Market Drayton Town.

April 18, 2010

Gregg sings for charity!

Barrow AFC have recorded a charity single ahead of their FA Trophy final appearance at Wembley. They all went to The Bay radio station in Lancaster on Friday to record their own version of The Farm's "All Together Now", with the squad singing a line each.
The single was the brainchild of The Bay’s sports editor Dave Salmon, has been given new lyrics. After the mammoth recording session, Dave said: "It’s been a great day. Some of the lads were better singers than others. The star man on the day was undoubtedly Gregg Blundell."
The Bluebirds hope that their single will be released before the big journey to London, so that the vocals of the Bluebirds can blast out of cars and buses making the pilgrimage to Wembley on May 8.
Ex Rovers striker Blundell said: “It’s been a good day. We’re all trying to make our careers in football and I don’t think any of us will be making that leap into music.”
Proceeds from the single, which will be priced at £4.99, will be donated to St Mary’s Hospice, Ulverston.
For those brave souls wanting ot hear their efforts, check www.thebay.co.uk for details of the single's release some time in the next week!

April 17, 2010

Ipswich v Rovers team news

Doncaster Rovers travel to Ipswich Town this afternoon eager to end their three match losing run - but midtable Ipswich have done well recently, climbing the table with a series of good results. Rovers go into the game one place and point ahead of their opponents - a great achievement in itself, but Sean O'Driscoll will be urging his squad to pick up enough points from the remaining three games to finish in the top ten.
Rovers will welcome James Coppinger back into the squad after missing the West Bromwich Albion game last weekend with an ankle injury, but Brian Stock will not be considered. Whilst he resumed training last week, today's match comes a little too soon for Brian, but we are sure that he will be pencilled in for next weekend's home match against Scunthorpe United.
Rovers will be missing Martin Woods, who will have a groin operation on Monday, but James Hayter will be included, despite a slight injury to his arm when colliding with the post in last week's game.
Apart from the return of Coppinger, Rovers are expected to have the same squad on duty this afternoon that was named for the West Brom match, although it will be intriguing to see if O'Driscoll gives a start to Sean McDaid.
The longer-term injury victims continue to be absent - Billy Sharp (thigh), Steve Brooker (ankle), James Shackell (groin) and Byron Webster (foot).
Out on loan at the moment are Lewis Guy (Oldham), John Spicer (Leyton Orient), Robbie Clark (Brigg) and Charles Fisher (Frickley).
Ipswich Town will be without defender Damien Delaney, who was forced out of last week's defeat at Nottingham Forest with an ankle injury, with young Tommy Smith set to take his place in the back four. Smith is particularly keen to play the game, as he still hopes to be included in New Zealand's World Cup squad.
They continue to be without goalkeeper Richard Wright and winger Luciano Civelli due to injury, with striker David Healy suffering from a knee injury that will keep him out for a week. Midfielder Carlos Edwards has chicken pox and will not play.

April 17, 2010

O'Kelly's preview

Assistant boss Richard O'Kelly is expecting a tough game this afternoon when Rovers face in-form Ipswich Town, despite the statistics suggesting both clubs have nothing to play for, being out of reach of both the play-off and relegation battles.
He told the Doncaster Star: "Ipswich are a good football side and they are strong and organised. They've got a threat up front with Murphy and young Wickham. They are both very dangerous at set-pieces along with McAuley and Walters. They all attack the ball well in the box so it will be tough. They have been in danger of getting dragged into the relegation dogfight on several occasions but you always felt they have got too much quality to go down and that's been proved right. I think that Roy Keane has stuck with the majority of his players he's got at the club and added a few more and he's turned things around."

April 17, 2010	Ipswich match officials
	The match officials for this afternoon's away game at Ipswich Town have been confirmed as: Referee: Andy Penn Assistant referees: M.D. Rowley & A. Sannerude. Fourth official: M.McLaughlin

April 17, 2010

Ex-Rovers players in centenary game

A number of former Doncaster Rovers players will be taking their place for tomorrow's Guiseley Wembley Heroes XI v an ex-Leeds United Players XI at Nethermoor Park tomorrow afternoon. The game is being held as part of Guiseley AFC's centenary celebrations - the match was originally scheduled to be played earlier in the season, but was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch. Those with a Rovers connection set to take part will be Neil Redfearn, Ian Snodin, Glynn Snodin, Brendan Ormsby, Vince Brockie and Dean Walling.
The match kicks off at 1pm, with admission prcies being £5 for adults, £2.50 for concessions and £1 for under-12s accompanied by an adult. The majority of the funds raised will go to the ex-Leeds United Players' charity.

April 16, 2010

McDaid hopes for chance

Rovers defender Sean McDaid is keeping his fingers crossed that he will be given the chance to prove that he is worth another contract at the club following 18 nightmare months since suffering a serious knee injury that means he has played just ten minutes of Championship football.
McDaid is out of contract in the summer and is keen to have the opportunity to shine - but with no reserve team, has found it difficult to get some vital match practice under his belt.
He made his first appearance in 21 months as a late subsititute against Middlesbrough recently, but knows he cannot rely on the 'sympathy vote' for a first team start.
He told the Doncaster Star: "The fans gave me a great reception when I came on which was much appreciated because it showed that they hadn't forgotten me. I'd love to start a game before the end of the season but I don't think that the manager is going to mix things up just for the sake of it. You've got to earn the right to get on but hopefully I can do that. I've had a good six months since I came back into full training and I've played in a number of practice games and I'm ready to go."
"I am out of contract at the end of the season so I'll have to see what happens. There are a lot of us who are out of contract so it could be all change - it depends on what the manager wants to do. I'd like to see the majority of the squad stick together because we've been together for two or three years and we have achieved every season."

April 16, 2010	Road delays tomorrow
	Ipswich Town have issued a warning of potential delays to everyone going by road to tomorrow's game at Portman Road. There are roadworks on the A14, with restrictions in place around junction 54 (Sproughton) with only one lane open in each direction, a contraflow and a 50mph speed limit also being in place. Ipswich are advising that the delay will probably be about 20 minutes.

April 16, 2010

Ipswich ticket update

Tickets for tomorrow's away game at Ipswich Town remain on sale at the Keepmoat Stadium until midday today, with Doncaster Rovers having received an allocation of 404 tickets, of which half have been sold so far. Tickets will be on sale tomorrow afternoon, but prices of all ticket categories will rise by £2.50.
Ticket prices bought in advance are at the following prices:
Adults: £31.00
Senior Citizens (60+)/ Students in full-time education/16-19 years: £22.00
Under-16s: £11.00
Disabled (wheelchair/ambulant): £18.00 - carer admitted free

April 16, 2010

Walker - we've earned respect

The success of Doncaster Rovers over the last few seasons, especially during the last two years in the Championship, have earned the club respect, according to Rovers' Director of Football, Mickey Walker.
Whilst Rovers have missed out on the chance of reaching the play-offs this season, Mickey is optimistic that the club will mount another promotion challenge next season.
He told the Yorkshire Evening Post: "One of the things that has intrigued, while not surprised me is that there's more of a professional respect for Doncaster Rovers this year. Whereas last year, when we came up through the play-offs, a lot of people still thought: 'It's only Donny' and 'We're going to beat Donny'. They got quite a surprise, a very big surprise."
"Now the coaches and teams who come up against us have the respect now to think: 'Hang on a minute, we've got to be a little smarter here to counteract what they do'. And it's proved not to be an easy thing to do. We've seen some very tight games this year and every point we've got, we've deserved. Other teams have had to work very hard to make sure that we don't give them a good hiding."
"The players have learnt about this league. Sean (O'Driscoll) is not a screamer and a shouter and instils into players that they have to deliver that quality and work-rate every week. he makes sure they remember how to do it."
Mickey continued: "This season has been a tremendous one. Last summer we lost Richie Wellens, who I fetched out of the woodwork and it proved good business. We also spent a few quid on Matthew Mills, but got a lot of money for him when he left. Sometimes, you have to let people go to pay the bills and you can build your squad again. Sean has a background of doing that and using the loan system and developing players."