December 31, 2009

Heffernan back at Rovers - for now

Striker Paul Heffernan has returned to Doncaster Rovers after his loan deal at Oldham Athletic expired on 28th December. Heffernan has played just four matches for the Latics during his initial one month loan, due to Oldham having two matches postponed over the Christmas period.
Oldham have stated that they are in talks with Doncaster Rovers about the possibility of extending Heffernan's loan further.
Paul has started just two matches so far this season for the Rovers, with nine substitute appearances, his opportunities limited since the arrival of the prolific Billy Sharp.

December 31, 2009

McDaid after new contract

Rovers defender Sean McDaid is hoping to repay Sean O'Driscoll's faith in him by earning himself a new deal at the club in the summer. O'Driscoll handed McDaid a new one year contract last summer in the midst of his injury absence, despite not having played for over a year following knee surgery.
The 23-year old defender cannot necessarily count on the same generosity again this summer and is confident of returning to the first team in the New Year to prove his worth to the club.
He said to the Doncaster Star: "I know I've got to pull out all the stops in the second half of the season to win myself a new contract. I certainly hope to be pushing for a first-team spot early in the new year. I've got to keep my head down and keep working hard."

December 31, 2009

Mirror - Preston after O'Driscoll

The Daily Mirror is reporting this morning that Preston North End chairman Derek Shaw is keen to talk to Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll about the managerial vacancy at Deepdale following the departure of Alan Irvine on Boxing Day. Irvine was sacked after Preston's defeat put them just above the relegation zone.
The same Mirror report suggets that Rovers would want full compensation for O'Driscoll, which they suggest is around £150,000, with Shaw attracted by the way that O'Driscoll can run a team with only a limited budget.
The Mirror also says: "Sources close to O'Driscoll reveal he is looking to go to a bigger club if the chances comes round. He is also admired by Sheffield Wednesday but they cannot afford the transfer fee."
However, a BBC report on the same situation suggests that Preston are after former Peterborough boss Darren Ferguson, with Shaw being attributed as having said: "There's a few experienced managers out of work at the moment and there's one or two up and coming managers that we know about as well."

December 31, 2009

Ticket news for FA Cup clash

No tickets will be on sale in advance of Saturday's FA Cup Round Three game at Brentford, as Brentford have decided that it will be "pay on the day" at the turnstiles for all areas of the ground. The only category of tickets which must be bought in advance are the student category, for which supporters should phone Brentford direct on 0845 3456 442 as soon as possible.
Admission prcies for the match will be:
Seating: Adults £21, Senior Citizens £15, Students £13, Under-16s £5
Terracing: Adults £20, Senior Citizens £14, Students £12, Under-16s £5.

December 31, 2009

Bayo going nowhere

Northampton Town boss Ian Sampson has said that striker Adebayo Akinfenwa will not be leaving the club in January, despite constant speculation to the contrary. Akinfenwa is out of contract at Sixfields in the summer and has been linked with a move away from the club in the upcoming transfer window.
Sampson said: "I would expect there to be interest from other clubs because he's our main striker and he scores a goal every two games. He's out of contract in the summer and I'm sure a few people will be interested in him, but he will definitely be a Northampton player in February. I don't need a crystal ball, he's going nowhere. There have been no phone calls so far, he's in our plans and we need him at this club. The chairman is of the same thinking, we're at the wrong end of the table and we need our best players."

December 31, 2009

Rovers after Imps keeper ?

Sources in Lincoln suggest that Doncaster Rovers are one of the clubs to be interested in Lincoln City goalkeeper Rob Burch, who is expected to leave Sincil Bank during the January transfer window. Other clubs mentioned to be interested in the player are Blackburn Rovers, Bolton Wanderers and Preston North End - a Premiership club are also believed to have made an enquiry with a view to a six-figure bid being made in due course.

December 30, 2009

Rovers count the cost

Doncaster Rovers are left counting the cost of missing out on potentially their highest crowd of the season following Monday's late postponement of the home game against Leicester City.
The pitch had been covered in a bid to prevent the frost getting through, but the stadium's efforts were to no avail, with temperatures in the stadium on Sunday night reaching -6C. A 10.30am pitch inspection by referee Keith Woolmer, attended by both club mangers, left little alternative but to call the match off, with sections of the pitch, especially the part in front of the South Stand, frozen solid, and the trio thought there was little prospect of the pitch improving sufficiently by kick-off time. John Ryan estimated that the cancellation of the home game against Leeds United two seasons ago cost the club £100,000, and there is every chance that Rovers will be looking at a similar loss again this time around.
The cancellation means that Rovers will have played four successive away games before their next scheduled home game, which is against Watford on January 16th - the last home game was against Bristol City on December 12th.
Whilst there is little anyone can do about unexpected low temperatures, Rovers fans have expressed their anger over the poor communication between the club and supporters of both sides - there was no mention of a pitch inspection by the club until after it had taken place, meaning some fans from both sides had set off on their journey to the match, all to no avail. The wisdom of the club statement that the match would 'definitely be on' is certainly now brought into question. In fact, tickets were still being sold in both Doncaster and Leicester at the time of the inspection, with fans unaware of the situation which was developing. With the club offices shut until next Monday, it seems there will be little in the way of apology or explanation from the club in the next few days.

December 30, 2009

A bit of culture at the Rovers!

The classical piece of music heard at most Rovers matches, "O Fortuna" from Carl Orff's "Carmina Burana" has been named as the UK's most widely heard classical piece of music. The top 30 most played recordings were unveiled on BBC Radio Two on Monday, with the stirring piece, which Fulham also use as their match build-up music, coming out on top, ahead of second-placed Vaughan Williams' "Fantasia on a theme".
German composer Orff's chart-topper was inspired by a medieval Latin poem.
The full top ten was named as:
Orff - O Fortuna
Vaughan Williams - Fantasia On A Theme By Thomas Tallis
Rimsky-Korsakov - Scheherazade
Tchaikovsky - The Sleeping Beauty
Schumann - Romance In F Sharp Major Op 28/2
Delibes - Sylvia
Rachmaninov - Symphony No 2
Holst - The Planets
Tchaikovsky - The Sleeping Beauty
Schubert - Symphony No 5

December 30, 2009

Coaches to Brentford

The Supporters Club are running coaches to Saturday's away FA Cup tie at Brentford. 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.
The fares will be:
Brentford (F.A. Cup R3) 02/01/10
Members £20 - OAP's £18 - U16's £16
Non-Members £22 - OAP's £20 - U16's £18
The Supporters Club advise that anyone under the age of 16 who travels on their coaches must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
To book a place on the coaches, please contact Harry Bacon (01302 854626), Len South (01302 817347) or Paul Mayfield (01427 880154).

December 29, 2009

Green earns "A" Licence

Doncaster Rovers Belles' assistant manager has passed his football coaching UEFA "A" Licence after completing his latest assessment at Balby Carr Football Centre. Green took his coaching course in Wales, beginning the course back in June 2007.
As Paul recalls: "I'm delighted to have passed my assessment. When I was working at Derby County, Paul Jewell recommended the course to me as he was midway through the course himself. He was really impressed with how the course was delivered and spoke very highly of the whole set up, so the course really appealed to me. I enjoyed the course and the people down there were fantastic and the overall course was excellent. I started the course back in June 2007 and a lot of hard work has gone in to it, so to have finally achieved my aim is fantastic."

December 29, 2009

Lua Lua pleas for a chance

Ex-Rovers loan striker Kazenga LuaLua has pleaded with Newcastle boss Chris Hughton for a chance to show what he can do in Newcastle's first team as part of his dream of emulating his older brother Lomana in becoming a favourite at St James' Park.
LuaLua spent the last few weeks of last season on loan at Rovers, and probably would have returned on a season-long loan, had not Newcastle being relegated to the Championship.
Kazenga said: “My aim has always been to play for the first team at Newcastle United. I’ve been here a long time, and last season I was involved in the first team before going out on loan."
“There were teams interested to take me on loan, but Chris said he doesn’t want anybody to go out. That’s his decision, but from my point of view it would be good for me. I have been playing for the reserves for a while now, and I’m keen to play football at first- team level."
" I would go out on loan if they let me. They can’t send me to a Championship team for obvious reasons, but Doncaster came in for me. I liked Doncaster, but it got turned down, so I just have to keep playing for the reserves and see if I get my chance.”

December 29, 2009

Rovers - "best League Cup moment" voting

Doncaster Rovers have been nominated as one of the fifty greatest League Cup moments of all-time for their win over Aston Villa in November 2005. The feat came on the back of a memorable win over Manchester City in the previous round - and Rovers almost went one better against Arsenal in the fifth round, being in front until added time before eventually going out after extra time. However, the evening against Aston Villa will live long in the memories of all who packed into Belle Vue - why not give Rovers a good chance of winning the voting organised by the Football League by visiting www.leaguecup50.com.

December 29, 2009

Goals check

We begin today's review of former Rovers players scoring goals in League Two, where Kevin McIntyre scored from the penalty spot in the 45th minute for Shrewsbury Town in their 3-1 win at Bradford City. Rovers striker Waide Fairhurst, whose loan spell at the Shrews ends on 2nd January, missed the game due to a foot injury that forced him to be substituted at half time of their Boxing Day fixture against Macclesfield Town.
Also in League Two, Ricky Ravenhill scored for Notts County to give them an early lead in their game at Burton Albion, which County went on to win 4-1. Perhaps unsurprisingly, Ravenhill was booked during the second half!
Finally, one we missed from Boxing Day - ex-Rover Tomi Ameobi scored for Forest Green in their 3-1 win over Salisbury City in the Blue Square Premier.

December 29, 2009

Injured Waide set to return to Rovers

December 29, 2009

Ticket info v Preston North End

Tickets for the away game against Preston North End on are now on general sale from the Keepmoat Stadium ticket office. Rovers have received an initial allocation of 1,060 tickets at the following prices:
Adults (21-59 years): £20
Senior Citizens (60+)/Young Adults (16-20): £12
Under-15s: £5
Juniors (7 & under): Free of charge
Wheelchair/Ambulant disabled & carer: £20
Ambulant disabled (no carer): £12
Family ticket (1 adult & 2 juniors): £25
Family ticket (2 adults & 2 juniors): £45
Match day car parking can be booked direct with Preston North End on 0844 8561966 at £5 per car.
Tickets will be taken off sale at midday on Friday, 8th January.

December 29, 2009

O'Kelly praises Wilson

Midfielder Mark Wilson, who has had to settle for a place on the bench for much of the season, has been praised by Rovers' assistant manager Richard O'Kelly.
In an interview with the Doncaster Star, O'Kelly said: "I can't praise Mark Wilson enough. He is the type of person who is integral in any team who play the way we play. We might not see an awful lot of him on the pitch sometimes, but the work that he does day in, day out, on the training pitch inspires people to be better players and better people."
On hearing the comments, Mark responded with: "As I'm getting older I am trying to put something back into the game. It is also being unselfish to be selfish in a way. You want the other players to do well so you benefit by playing in a better team, so if I can inspire players and help them become better players that is certainly a good thing to do. It is just something that I feel I should be doing."

December 29, 2009

Voting results v Coventry City

It was fairly obvious as to who was going to win the latest "Man of the Match" voting for the game against Coventry, with Jason Shackell picking up the vast majority of the votes cast. He received 71.43% of the votes cast, coming way ahead of second placed Simon Gillett, who received just short of 15% of the votes.
Thanks to everyone who took the time to place their vote. The next poll will open following Saturday's away FA Cup tie at Brentford - weather permitting, of course!

December 28, 2009

Match postponed

This afternoon's home game against Leicester City has been postponed due to a frozen pitch at the Keepmoat Stadium, Whilst the pitch has been covered during the recent cold spell, temperatures at the stadium reached -6C last night, which is lower than the covers are supposed to withstand.

December 28, 2009

Rovers v Leicester City

Doncaster Rovers are likely to name an unchanged side for this afternoon's home game against Leicester City, with no injuries reported further to Saturday's away game at Coventry City. Brian Stock made a return to the squad as an unused substitute, and the midfielder may well have to settle for a place on the bench again today. Sean McDaid, absent for 20 months with knee injuries, did not make the match day squad at Coventry, but will be hoping for inclusion this afternoon.
Midfielder Martin Woods continues his absence due to a groin injury, and Steve Brooker (ankle) is still returning to fitness after his long lay-off.
Rovers will be hoping to get back on the winning track after having their winning run ended at the Ricoh Arena, but it will be tough against a Leicester City side who go into today's game in fourth place.
However, City have a doubt over defender Jack Hobbs, who picked up a knock in their game against Sheffield United, and they will be missing on-loan Sunderland striker, who serves the last of a three match suspension. Today's game sees the return of midfielder Richie Wellens, who lines up against his former team mates for the first time since his transfer to Leciester in the summer, and he looks likely to receive a warm welcome from the Rovers supporters.
For those interested in statistics, today marks the first time that the two sides have played each other since 1956 - of the twelve matches played in Doncaster, Rovers have won four, Leicester two, with the remaining six drawn.

December 28, 2009

Leicester match officials

The match officials for today's home game against Leicester City have been confirmed as:
Referee: KA Woolmer
Assistant referees: T Harrington and PR Marsden
Fourth official: AR Parker

December 28, 2009

Tickets for today's match

Tickets sold for today's match against Leicester City suggest that a crowd of over 11,000 is guaranteed. With 8,841 tickets (including season ticket holders) and 2,247 away tickets sold, according to the Keepmoat Stadium website, on the day sales could well go close to Rovers getting their highest attendance of the season - 12,923 attended the Carling Cup game against Spurs, and 12,708 were at the home game against Barnsley in October.
The ticket office will be open ahead of today's match, with tickets being available at the following prices:
Category 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
The ticket office will open at 9am and remain open until the match kicks off at 3pm.
For the remainder of the Christmas period, the opening hours are:
Tuesday, 29th December & Wednesday, 30th December: 9am to 4.30pm
Thursday, 31st December: 9am to 1pm
Friday, 1st January to Sunday, 3rd January: closed
Normal opening hours resume from Monday, 4th January.
The Rovers offices are closed for the entire period until 4th January, apart from a short time ahead of today's game.

December 28, 2009

Rovers brace themselves for Stock bids

According to the Daily Mirror, Doncaster Rovers will face a battle to keep midfield star Brian Stock once the transfer window opens in the New Year. They report that Rovers are likely to receive bids in the region of £1.5 million from West Bromwich Albion and Cardiff City, even though Stock has not played since sustaining an ankle injury in September. He is expected to be included in the squad again today, although an appearance from the substitutes' bench looks to be his best chance of playing.

December 28, 2009

Ryan - we have played some great football

Rovers chairman John Ryan has said that he thinks that Rovers' style of play will mean that the side will be pushing for a top half finish this season, and with a bit of luck, they coudl have been another 10 to 12 points better off than they already have amassed.
He told Yorkshire Sport: "I think we have played some great football. The only disappointment is that we haven't got another 10 or 12 points, which is what we thoroughly deserve. We have outplayed teams yet have either drawn or lost. We have drawn far too many that we should have won."
"I think we have a quality squad and a quality team and a lot of people under-estimate us. "We came 14th last year,and anything in the top half would be fantastic, bearing in mind our resources compared to a lot of bigger teams."
"We are a quality side, a strong squad and, most importantly, we have a quality management team led by Sean O'Driscoll."
"We feel with the quality of football we are playing, we have got a chance of attracting more fans," he continued. "Crowd-wise, you would always like more, but we have got a lot of big games to come this season. This season we are averaging just over 10,000, last season it was around 12,000 and we would like more of the people of Doncaster to come out and share the enjoyable environment on offer."

December 27, 2009

Coventry City 1 Rovers 0

The four match winning sequence of Doncaster Rovers came to an end at the Ricoh Arena yesterday when a penalty five minutes from time proved to be what separated the two sides. Rovers had the better of the first half, but the home side hit back to have the upper hand after the break. Rovers had been fortunate to go in at half time level after conceding a penalty in the first half when Neil Sullivan brought down Leon Best, but his resulting spot kick crashed against the post. The second half saw the Sky Blues hit the woodwork on two occasions, but the pressure eventually told, with the penalty in the 85th minute awarded for a push.

December 27, 2009

Around the goals

With the freezing weather conditions throughout the country virtually wiping out all fixtures below the Blue Square divisions, our review of goals scored with a Rovers connection is a little short today.
In League Two, on-loan striker Waide Fairhurst scored for Shrewsbury Town in their entertainign 2-2 draw at home to Macclesfield. Every single goal in the game was scored in added on time - Macclesfield had taken the lead in the first minute of added time at the end of the first half, with Fairhurst replying in the second minute of added time. There was still time before the break for Macclesfield to take a 2-1 lead, with Daniel scoring in the fourth added minute. Shrewsbury scored their equaliser deep into added time at the end of the second half - the sixth minute, to be precise!
In the Blue Square Premier, Gregg Blundell scored his first goal since joining Barrow in a 3-3 home draw with Gateshead. Blundell's 60th minute strike came courtesy of a through-ball from ex-Rovers winger Craig Nelthorpe, currently on loan at Barrow from York City.
Finally, ex-Rovers striker Chris Beardsley scored in the 85th minute for Stevenage Borough in their 3-1 away win at Cambridge United.

December 27, 2009

What the managers said

Sean O'Driscoll conceded that the first penalty that Rovers conceded yesterday was a just decision - but then went on to say that the 85th minute decision that condemned Rovers to defeat was a "soft decision".
O'Driscoll said: "I thought the first one was a penalty - I would have expected it if it was our striker. We got a bit of luck with the miss but the second penalty was a soft decision to say the least. I've seen it on the monitors and I have already clipped four or five incidents that are exactly the same. Why one is a penalty and another isn't, I don't understand. You just want a bit of consistency. I thought we were organised and disciplined and never really looked in danger of conceding apart from their long throws which are effective even if they are unattractive to watch."
Coventry boss Chris Coleman was delighted with the outcome of the match, saying: "It would have been a travesty if we didn't win. We were the better team. There were spells in the first half when Doncaster played some lovely football but we were patient and had good chances. That's our third win on the bounce and that's been thoroughly deserved because the players have been tremendous. They have stuck together. I was delighted for Clinton. It's not easy when you haven't scored for some time but as soon as it was given, I knew there was only one man who was going to take it."
"I thought the lads were fantastic today and I thought we were by far the better team and we definitely had more of a cutting edge about us going forward," Coleman said. To be honest we could have had two or three goals in the first half but we came in at 0-0 and we just said the lads had to keep going at the pace they had set. I thought we chose our moments very well and dominated the game at times, especially in the second half where I thought we were superb."

December 27, 2009

Owen appointed coach

Former Doncaster Rovers midfielder Gareth Owen, now at Welsh Premier League club Rhyl, has agreed to join the coaching staff at the club following the recent departure of Dave Cameron. Owen is currently taking his Pro-Licence qualification, but will remain a member of the first team squad at Belle Vue.
Manager Greg Strong said: "I am delighted Gareth has agreed to come on board, he has a wealth of knowledge and experience and will add a new and exciting dimension to the club in the coming months. Owen left Rovers after a two year stay in 2003, joining home town club Connah's Quay, before being appointed as player/manager of Airbus UK in 2005, moving to Rhyl as a player three years later.

December 26, 2009

Rovers team news

Doncaster Rovers travel to Coventry this afternoon hoping to keep their unbeaten run going, which has seen them win the last four games and not concede a goal in 370 minutes of Championship football. Coventry's recent record gives hope for optimism, with two wins, two losses and two draws in their last six results.
Of course, it will not have escaped many that striker Billy Sharp will be seeking to score in his seventh game in a row - something that hasn't been done by a Rovers player in over thirty years, when Peter Kitchen scored seven games in a row in the 1976/77 season.
Rovers made the unusual decision to give the players Christmas Day off - but will have them in for training early this morning for preparation for this afternoon's game.
As Richard O'Kelly explained: "We stick with that plan because we believe Christmas Day is a time to be with the family. What we do ask for is some payback from the players. We'll have a very light training session early on Boxing Day morning before we travel to Coventry."
Rovers do not appear to have any new injuries to take account of, with Martin Woods continuing his absence as he recovers from a groin injury. Whilst Steve Brooker is still being eased back and will not be included over the Christmas matches, it is possible that Brian Stock, who trained this week, could be on the bench today, although Monday's home game is a more realistic target. Sean McDaid may also feature in the squad after being out for eighteen months with knee injuries.

December 26, 2009

Coventry City team news

Coventry will be hoping to make it three league wins in a row this afternoon - their newly found form followed a run of ten matches without a victory, although their two recent wins were over relegation threatened Peterborough United and Plymouth Argyle.
Coventry boss Chris Coleman will give a late fitness test to defender Richard Wood, who returned to training last week after missing games due to an ankle injury. Players set to miss out today are defenders Marcus Hall (calf) Ben Turner (ankle), Jordan Clarke (knee), midfielder Isaac Osborune (knee) and keeper Dimi Konstantopoulos, with Sammy Clingan continuing his recovery from a broken toe.
City have singed midfielder Gary Deegan from Irish Premier Division champions Bohemians, but cannot play until the transfer window opens in January.
Striker Freddy Eastwood looks certain to keep his place after scoring four goals in his last two games.

December 26, 2009

Today's officials

The match officials for thsi afternoon's game at Coventry City have been confirmed as:
Referee: R L Shoebridge
Assistant Referees: D Naylor and W D Smallwood
Fourth Official: J G Adcock

December 25, 2009

Merry Christmas

We would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and hope that, even with the freezing conditions that have hit the country over the last few days, you are all able to enjoy this festive period.

December 25, 2009

Rovers battle to beat big freeze

Doncaster Rovers are confident that Monday's home game against Leicester City will go ahead as planned, despite freezing conditions hitting the Doncaster area for the past week. Temperatures are expected to rise above freezing point over the weekend, which should ensure the pitch is in ideal condition on Monday. However, The Keepmoat Stadium have had the pitch covered for a few days to make sure the frost and snow does not harm the pitch surface, and rock salt has been ordered to ensure that the car parks and access roads are in good condition for Monday.
Stadium boss Shane Chalmers told the Free Press: "We're trying everything we possibly can to ensure the game goes ahead on the 28th. We're monitoring the weather and how the pitch is reacting to the different measures were using. The gritting lorries are on standby for the 28th and rock salt has been ordered in to tackle the areas we have responsibility for, so there will be no issues there.

December 25, 2009

Copps looks forward to Coventry

Rovers striker James Coppinter is hoping that all Rovers fans have a belated Christmas present - by picking up three points at Coventry City on Boxing Day. Rovers have not conceded a goal for 370 minutes during their recent surge up the Championship table, and are now handily placed just four points adrift of the play-off places.
A win would see Rovers win for the fourth successive year on Boxing Day.
Coppinger said: "You try to enjoy Christmas Day but you've just got to be sensible and make sure that you don't eat or drink too much so that you don't feel sluggish the next day. It's not a problem for me because I've been playing football that long that I've got used to it. Boxing Day will just be a normal game for me."
After scoring his first goal of the season at Derby last weekend, James is hopeful of his second coming fairly soon. He said: "I always enjoy scoring and in the past my goals seem to have come in bursts, so I might be due another over the two festive games."

December 25, 2009

Lewer in pole position

Former Rovers assistant manager Alan Lewer is in temporary charge at Blue Square Premier club Histon, although he will have tomorrow off as Histon's match against Luton Town has been postponed after becoming a victim of freezing weather conditions.
Lewer was put in control following the suspension of Steve Fallon, with Fallon disagreeing with his chairman Tony Roach over the playing budget reduction at the club.
Fallon has been suspended following a disagreement with Roach over the release of four players as part of a cost-cutting measure. All four had accepted severance packages from the club agreed since Fallon's enforced absence.

December 25, 2009

Foster to start?

December 24, 2009

Ticket office opening times

The ticket office at the Keepmoat Stadium closes at 1pm this afternoon and will be closed until Monday morning, when they re-open at 9am. Please remember that unsold tickets for Saturday's away game at Coventry City were returned to Coventry yesterday, and will not be on sale at the Keepmoat Stadium today. However, tickets will be on sale on match day, albeit at higher prices than the advertised advance rates.
The ticket office opening hours for the rest of the Christmas and New Year period are as follows:
Thursday, 24th December: 9am to 1pm
Monday, 28th December: 9am to kick-off
Tuesday, 29th December: 9am to 4.30pm
Wednesday, 30th December: 9am to 4.30pm
Thursday, 31st December: 9am to 1pm
The ticket office will be closed on all days not mentioned above between now and Monday, 4th January, when normal opening hours will resume.

December 24, 2009

Coventry ticket details

Tickets for the Boxing Day fixture at Coventry City will be on sale at the Ricoh Arena on match day, but tickets have been taken off sale in Doncaster and returned to Coventry City.
Tickets on match day will be at the following prices:
Adults: £27
Concessions: £15

December 24, 2009

Ryan's message

Rovers chairman John Ryan has issued a Christmas message to Rovers fans, urging as many as possible to turn up to Monday's home game against Leicester City on the back of the team's recent good form which has lifted them up into 11th place in the Championship.
Whilst predicting a good game of football on Monday, Ryan is clearly frustrated at the drop in attendances this season when compared to last season.
Ryan said: "It has been disappointing to see our home gates down by 2,000 a game this time when we are playing ever so well and obviously with the results aiming for a little more than consolidation."
" It is every fans dream for their team to do well and have major aims and when you have seen what Hull City and Burnley have achieved then its not beyond the realms of possibility for us to emulate them in times to come."
He continued: "We have been playing some sublime football all season and it has certainly started to win us some plaudits and justifiably so. Should we have done the business at Coventry on Boxing Day and we take maximum points on Monday then we are not only in the mix for the play-offs at the halfway stage in the season, but also in a damn sight better position than at this time last year.

December 24, 2009

Ryan - hands off Billy!

John Ryan has scotched Barnsley's dreams of signing striker Billy Sharp in the January transfer window, despite there being a clause in Sharp's loan deal which says that Sheffield United can recall the prolific marksman to be sold on. Barnsley are reported to be preparing a £750,000 bid for Sharp to boost their firepower in January.
However, Ryan has every intention of keeping Sharp until the end of the season, saying: "He has a loan deal until the summer and does not have to go to any other club if he does not want to. He has assured me that he wants to stay here and will make a decision on his next move in the summer. That is excellent news for Doncaster Rovers and we will definitely throw our hat into the ring again at the end of the season."
As Sharp told the Doncaster Star recently: "I've signed until the end of the season and I want to see that out. Sheffield United can accept offers but I've got to accept terms. I'm happy here; I've got my career back on track and I've got a smile on my face. I'm enjoying it and when that happens I play my best football."

December 24, 2009

Rovers shut for Christmas

Doncaster Rovers have announced that their club offices will close at midday today for their Christmas break. Apart from being open for match duties on Monday, 28th December, they will be closed for the entire period until Monday, 4th January, when they re-open on normal office hours.

December 23, 2009

Yates gets Cheltenham job

Former Rovers player Mark Yates has been appointed as the new manager at Cheltenham Town. He replaces Martin Allen, who was placed on 'gardening leave' following an incident outside a Cheltenham night club two months ago. The 39 year old has been manager at Kidderminster Harriers since January 2006, and is a former Cheltenham Town player, having spent five years there between 1999 and 2004.
Former Rovers skipper John Schofield, who has been acting as caretaker manager at Cheltenham, reverts to being assistant manager at Whaddon Road.
Chairman Paul Baker said: "We are delighted to have reached an agreement with Kidderminster to welcome Mark and Neil back. I wish them every success in their new roles. The board has no doubt that they are up for the challenge and I know they cannot wait to get started. Despite their absence they have remained good friends of the club. Clearly they have very strong associations with us and some fond memories too."

December 23, 2009

Rovers Belles apply to join Super League

Doncaster Rovers Belles are one of 16 clubs to have applied to join the new FA Women's Super League, which is due to be launched in March 2011.
Subject to clubs meeting the necessary criteria, the FA will be looking to offer eight licences to the strongest candidates by March 2010, which will give those clubs twelve months to prepare for the launch of the Super League.
The following clubs have applied to be part of The FA Women’s Super League: Arsenal Ladies FC, Barnet FC, Birmingham City Ladies FC, Bristol Academy Women’s FC, Chelsea Ladies FC, Colchester United Ladies FC, Doncaster Rovers Belles, Everton Ladies FC, Leeds Carnegie Ladies FC, Leicester City FC, OOH Lincoln Ladies, Liverpool, Millwall Lionesses FC, Newcastle United Women's FC, Nottingham Forest, Sunderland Women’s FC.

December 23, 2009

Woods in demand?

Doncaster Rovers midfielder Martin Woods is said to be attracting transfer interest from Cardiff City and Middlesbrough ahead of the January transfer window, according to Sky Sports. The Rovers midfielder is currently out of action with a groin injury, but has progressed well this season, being made captain when Brian Stock suffered his ankle injury. Woods' consistently good performances in the last couple of seasons has apparently caught the eye of Middlesbrough boss Gordon Strachan, who is keen to make changes to his faltering squad, who have plummeted down the Championship table in recent weeks.

December 23, 2009

Rovers pair in Team of the Week

This week sees two Doncaster Rovers players included in the Press Association's Team of the Week for their performance in Saturday's game at Derby County. Defender James O'Connor and striker Billy Sharp have both been named in a side that includes four Swansea City players and three from Nottingham Forest. Rovers have now had at least one player named for the last three weeks, which shows that their improvement in form is being recognised outside the Doncaster area.
The full team of the week is: Lee Camp (Nottingham Forest), Angel Rangel (Swansea City), James O`Connor (Doncaster Rovers), Alan Tate (Swansea City), Nicky Shorey (Nottingham Forest), Paul McKenna (Nottingham Forest), Mikele Leigertwood (QPR), Darren Pratley (Swansea City), Andre Orlandi (Swansea City), Victor Moses (Crystal Palace), Billy Sharp (Doncaster Rovers).

December 23, 2009

Shackell wins your vote

On-loan central defender Jason Shackell was the clear winner of the "Man of the Match" voting for the away game at Derby County on Saturday, winning just short of half the votes cast. Whilst there were nominations received for nine players, 90% of the votes were given to just three players, who were as follows:
1 Jason Shackell (44.93%)
2 James O'Connor (24.64%
3 Billy Sharp (20.29%)
Thank you to everyone who took part in the voting. The next vote will open following the away game at Coventry City on Boxing Day.

December 22, 2009

Brabin contender for Cheltenham job

Ex-Rovers midfielder Gary Brabin is reported to be one of sixty applicants which were received for the managerial vacancy at Cheltenham Town ahead of last Friday's closing date for interested candidates.
Brabin is currently working as chief scout at Luton Town and guided Cambridge United to the Conference play-off final last season. He was a team mate of John Schofield, a rival for the Cheltenham job, whilst at Belle Vue.
A Cheltenham spokesman said: “We interviewed candidates over the weekend and hope to interview more today. The interview process should be finished by the end of today.”The successful candidate will be in charge for the first time on Boxing Day when Cheltenham travel to Bournemouth.

December 22, 2009

How did Heffs miss this?

It just wasn't Rovers striker Paul Heffernan's day on Saturday whilst playing on loan at Oldham Athletic - not only did see his penalty kick saved by Wycombe keeper Scott Shearer, but he was involved in a bizarre situation which saw his shot hit both posts and the crossbar!
If you don't believe us, the BBC have got video of the inicdent on their website- click on Paul's picture to the left to go through to their site!

December 22, 2009

Rob's on the move

Former Doncaster Rovers defender Rob Pacey has been transferred from Ossett Town to UniBond club Harrogate Railway Athletic after just two months at Ossett. Since leaving Rovers, Rob has played for a number of clubs, including Alfreton Town, Matlock Town, Telford United and Gateshead.

December 21, 2009

Coaches to Coventry

The Supporters Club are running coaches to the away game at Coventry City on Boxing Day - but they have stressed that they will only accept bookings until Tuesday evening, as they have to confirm the number of coaches booked by then.
The coaches will leave at the following times: Retford 10.30am, Harworth 10.35am, Rossington Styrrup 10.45am, Bawtry 10.45am, Doncaster Royal Infirmary 11.00am and the Keepmoat Stadium Car Park 1 at 11.15am.
Fares for the trip are: Members £12.00 - OAP's £11.00 - U16's £10.00
Non-Members £14.00 - OAP's £13.00 - U16's £12.00
To book a place, please phone Paul Mayfield (07961 727769), Len South (01302 817347) or Harry Bacon (01302 854626) as soon as possible. They have also made a special request - don't ring to book any seats on Christmas Day!

December 21, 2009

Warrington gets new deal

Ex-Rovers goalkeeper Andy Warrington has signed a new two year contract at Rotherham United, and has pledget to stay with the club until the end of his career. The 34-year old keeper has been in superb form this season and has earned rave reviews for his performances, with new boss Ronnie Moore recognising his efforts by offering a new deal.
Warrington said of the news: “The new deal takes me to 36 and touch wood goalkeepers can go on further. I want to stay beyond this contract and I believe that I will finish my career at this club but that is in the future; in the short-term we want to win promotion this season. I firmly believe that we are heading in the right direction and obviously our main goal is to achieve promotion. I am ambitious and so is the club so I am looking forward to the next two years.”
Moore had previously rated Warrington as the best 'keeper in League Two: "Andy is a fantastic 'keeper and we are delighted to have signed him for a further two years. I firmly believe that he is the best 'keeper in this division by a mile. He has been in great form all season and hopefully there are plenty more great performances and clean sheets to come. We have 12 out of contract at the end of this season and Andy has shown the way to the others who want a new deal. If they want to be here they have to play for a contract so it is up to them to do the right things on and off the field."

December 21, 2009

Coventry ticket info

Tickets for Boxing Day's away game at Coventry City remain on general sale at the Keepmoat Stadium ticket office until 4.30pm on Wednesday (23rd December) afternoon. Rovers have received an allocation of 1,911 tickets for the fixture at the following prices:
Adults: £25.00
Concessions (Seniors 60+, Students, Juniors( 15 & under): £13.00
Wheelchair/ambulant disabled: £13 (carer free)
Match day prices increase by £2 per ticket.

December 21, 2009

Stock on the way back

As many supporters will have seen, Brian Stock stepped up his recovery from injury on Saturday by travelling with the first team squad to Derby County, and took part in the pre-match warm up with the rest of the squad. Whilst he may not be ready for a return to action, it signifies that he is recovering well from ankle surgery, with club medical staff indicating that he is a month ahead of schedule.
Stock joined in training with the rest of the squad last week for the first time since having surgery, with boss Sean O'Driscoll saying to the Doncaster Star: "Brian joined in with the rest of the squad yesterday. It was limited, but he joined in. "Brian travelled with the team to Derby to do the pre-match preparation with the squad just as a way of getting him involved with the squad again. Touch wood, he's felt no problem with his ankle so far. We are pushing him as much as we can within the bounds of safety. He's done everything that we've asked him to do, so again he's almost there."
"He's ahead of schedule so I think we've pushed him sensibly and he's not had any setbacks. He's had an injury which needed to be managed properly, but if we did that he'd be fine and we knew that, so there was no point in cutting corners. At some point next week, he'll join in fully, with constraints, so that we can assess him."
"We won't do anything until Brian is ready and the medical team say he can do it. Ideally, if you had to plan it you'd play him for half an hour in a practice game and then you'd play him for 75 minutes. Maybe we'll have to quicken things up a little bit. But it depends how he does when he gets back into first-team training and he starts getting whacks on his ankle and a few tackles in. We'll have to wait and see what happens. We don't want any reaction, but he's been fine."

December 19, 2009

Derby County 0 Rovers 2

Doncaster Rovers gave their travelling supporters a superb early Christmas present by winning for the second time at Pride Park, a win that takes Rovers up to within a mind-boggling four points of the play-off places. The prolific Billy Sharp scored - nothing new there, then - for a remarkable sixth game in a row, to give Rovers an early lead, and after then, Derby huffed and puffed, but they just could not blow the Rovers house down. The second half, particularly, was a 'backs to the wall' display by Rovers; despite the possession, Derby failed to force Rovers keeper Neil Sullivan into a save in the entire match. A superb afternoon for Rovers was capped in added time when Rovers broke away for James Coppinger to score his first goal of the campaign and send the Rovers fans into raptures.
So, Rovers go into the Christmas in 11th place - dare we dream of higher things?

December 20, 2009

What the managers said

Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll was full of praise for Rovers striker Billy Sharp after he plundered his sixth goal in successive games yesterday afternoon at Derby County. The downside for Rovers is that the more goals he scores, the more chances there are that Sheffield United will receive a bid for Sharp in the January transfer window. O'Driscoll reminded us: "He's here until the end of the season unless Sheffield United get an offer to sell him they accept and Billy decides he wants to move. I would love to make it a permanent move but any bid I put in would have to have a couple of noughts added on to get it accepted. But you have got to be pragmatic about it. It's a win-win situation, Billy has got his career back on track and he's scoring goals for us. If it works out for Billy I will be delighted and we will send him on his way and say thanks for the memories."
In contrast Derby boss Nigel Clough slammed the performance of his side yesterday. He said: "I don't know if it's complacency, an air of arrogance or it might be we are not good enough. Perhaps it's a combination of everything. We've got into old habits again and that's the reason Derby have not been out of the bottom half of the table in two-and-a-half years."
"Our first 45 minutes was extremely disappointing, on the back of our last four performances and results. When you put such a poor one in, and give a goal away as we did, it makes it extremely difficult to get anything out of the game. There's no excuse for not doing the basic things right. That is the reason we didn't win the game."

December 20, 2009

Rovers look for Jason to stay longer

Doncaster Rovers are in talks with Wolverhampton Wanderers over an extension to the loan of defender Jason Shackell, who has been in impressive form since joining back in August. However, his current loan deal is due to run out on 1st January, meaning that he can play in all matches over the Christmas period, but unless a new deal is agreed, he will have returned to Wolves by the time the FA Cup Third Round tie against Brentford is played on January 3rd.
Sean O'Driscoll spoke of his hopes in Shackell staying until the end of the season by commenting: "We are in talks with Wolves. They - like Sheffield United with Billy Sharp - would like to recoup their outlay. That's their prerogative, not helping Doncaster Rovers. However, I think both parties are sensible to know that him going back and playing reserve team football is not going to help them realise some value. He's doing very well for us and I think that everybody is now looking at their options. I think that Jason would be delighted to stay for the rest of the season, so who knows what might happen."

December 20, 2009

Rovers planning move for Tigers' striker?

The Sky Sports web site has reported that Doncaster Rovers are planning an ambitious move for Hull City striker Daniel Cousin, who has been struggling to get in the Hull first team this season. Rovers are alleged to have approached Hull about the prospects of making a move for Cousin, who they see as someone who could assist their quest for a top half league finish this season. Hull, who are keen to reduce their wage bill after running up a huge operating loss this season, are believed to be willing to offload the former Rangers striker. Of course, if Rovers manage to hold on to Billy Sharp for the rest of the season, Rovers could have a very potent strikeforce!

December 19, 2009

Derby County v Rovers

Doncaster Rovers travel to Pride Park for this afternoon's Championship match, aiming for a second successive away win of the season, as well as hoping to repeat the result achieved at County's ground last season.
All signs look as though Rovers will send out the same starting eleven that started last week's home game against Bristol City, with Rovers seeking their fourth win in a row. Martin Woods has been ruled out until the New Year, and Brian Stock, Steve Brooker and Sean McDaid are not yet ready to return, despite all having resumed training. Quinton Fortune is also unavailable due to injury.
Derby County have the luxury of being able to select from four strikers for this afternoon's game, with Rob Hulse, Chris Porter, Paul Dickov and DJ Campbell all available.
Defender Dean Leacock should also be available after missing their win over Watford with a hamstring injury, but on-loan defender Frederik Stoor will miss out due to an ankle injury. Also missing for the Rams will be Shaun Barker (thigh), Miles Addison (foot), Kris Commons (hamstring), Ruben Zadkovich, Mark O'Brien and Mitchell Hanson.

December 19, 2009

Today's ref

We have the pleasure of the one and only Trevor Kettle for the match referee at this afternoon's game at Pride Park!
The match officials have been confirmed as:
Referee: TM Kettle
Assistant referees: K Hayward & P Norris
Fourth official: I Smedley

December 19, 2009

Tykes after Billy?

The BBC and Daily Mirror have published reports that suggest that Barnsley are interested in signing Billy Sharp during the January transfer window. Sharp is on loan from Sheffield United for the whole season - the only way that can be interrupted is if the Blades recall him in order to sell him.
Barnsley are suggested to have already made an offer for the player, with boss Mark Robins saying: "You always want to sign good players and if someone is available and it is within the right parameters then you look to do something. That is what it should be about and Billy Sharp falls into that category. We are always interested in quality players but we will have to wait and see. We have some very good players here now but you always have to try and find better ones to strengthen."
Sharp has said that he is happy at Rovers and intends on seeing the season out at the Keepmoat Stadium.
In the meantime, Rovers chairman John Ryan has spoken of his desire to keep Sharp at the club - although the inference is that Rovers will not make a move until the end of the season. He said: "There is not a lot I can say on the subject really other than, as a fan myself, I would love to see him here on a permanent basis. As far as I'm aware Billy has said he would like to see out his loan spell at the club until the end of the season because he is enjoying it so much and will make a decision about his future then. He still has another year left on his contract at Sheffield United after this season but, if he does become available in the summer, we will certainly be throwing our hat into the ring at that stage. All I can say is that we will be doing our best."

December 19, 2009

Byfield signs new deal

Ex-Rovers striker Darren Byfield has agreed a new deal with Walsall, which means that he will stay at the club until the end of the 2010/11 season, with a further 12 month option in the club's favour.
The 33-year old has been in great form since re-joining the Saddlers at the end of August after being released by Rovers in the summer. On agreeing his new contract, Byfield commented: "I'm absolutely over the moon. This club has developed so much over the years and I am thrilled to be part of it again. The manager, Martin O'Connor and the Chairman have all been brilliant to me and showed exactly how much they want me here, which means a lot. Being back in the Midlands is a big thing and being able to go to work with a smile on my face is important. The training ground has also been a pleasant surprise and a great addition since I was last here. The team spirit that exists among the lads is first-class and it's good that we're challenging in the top half of the table. There is an awful lot of emerging talent here and it is up to me and the other experienced lads to help bring it on."
"The supporters also have an important role to play in all of this. They have been brilliant to me and I know that they will always be behind me if I continue to work hard. I want to continue to make them happy by scoring goals and helping the club move forward."

December 18, 2009

Ryan - we will be doing our best

Doncaster Rovers chairman John Ryan has confirmed that he would like striker Billy Sharp to stay at the club after his loan spell ends. Sharp, who is on loan to Rovers until the end of the season, has been in superb form, scoring in the last five games and will be going for six in a row on Saturday at Derby.
Ryan said: "There's not a lot I can say on the subject really, other than, as a fan myself, I would love to see him here on a permanent basis. As far as I'm aware Billy has said he would like to see out his loan spell at the club until the end of the season because he's enjoying it so much and will make a decision about his future then. He still has another year left on his contract at Sheffield United after this season, but if he does become available in the summer, we will certainly be throwing our hat into the ring. All I can say is we will be doing our best."
Rovers would have to break their current transfer record by some margin to make Sharp a Rover, with Sheffield United likely to want a substantial fee after paying Scunthorpe United £2 million for his services just over two seasons ago.
In 114 league games for Rushden & Diamonds, Scunthorpe and Doncaster Rovers, Sharp has scored a remarkable 72 goals - in contrast, in two seasons at Sheffield United, he has played 51 games and scored just eight.

December 18, 2009

Hawkins to consult expert over injury agony

Former Rovers defender Colin Hawkins, now at Brighton & Hove Albion, is to consult a Swedish Achilles expert who treated him at Coventry City in a bid to resolve an injury to the same Achilles tendon. Hawkins picked up the injury in September in a 'behind closed doors' match against Crawley Town, and has been unable to regain full fitness since. Hawkins is to seek the advice of the specialsit in the New Year.

December 18, 2009

Mark given permission to talk to Cheltenham

Former Rovers midfielder John Schofield may be hoping to be given the manager's job at Cheltenham Town on a permanent basis after being at the helm on a caretaker basis since Martin Allen was suspended, but he faces a challenge for the job, with applications invited by the club by a closing date of Friday, 18th December.
One of his competitors is likely to be former Rover Mark Yates, who is currently boss at Kidderminster Harriers, after Yates was given permission to speak to his former club about the vacancy. Harriers chairman Barry Norgrove said: "I've been approached by Cheltenham Town and Mark would like the opportunity to speak with them. He wants to see what they have to say so we have given him permission."
Robins chairman Paul Baker told their official website: "This does not necessarily make him the front-runner as we will be meeting to consider all the candidates within the next few days."

December 18, 2009

Liam on the move

Former Rovers youth team striker Liam Slack has been transferred from Armthorpe Welfare to Winterton Rangers, who play in the Northern Counties East Premier Division. He joins former Rover Darren Fell and Ian Snodin (junior) at the club. Slack was at Doncaster Rovers from 2001 but was released at the end of his time in the youth team.

December 18, 2009

Ticket office Christmas opening

The Keepmoat Stadium ticket office have announced their opening hours over the Christmas and New Year period.
They will be open as follows:
Monday, 21st December to Wednesday, 22nd December: 9am to 4.30pm
Thursday, 24th December: 9am to 1pm
Friday, 25th December to Sunday, 27th December: CLOSED
Monday, 28th December: 9am to 3pm (kick-off)
Tuesday, 29th December to Wednesday, 30th December: 9am to 4.30pm
Thursday, 31st December: 9am to 1pm
Friday, 1st January to Sunday, 3rd January: CLOSED
Normal opening hours resume from Monday, 4th January.

December 17, 2009

McDaid continues come-back

Defender Sean McDaid is continuing to progress towards his goal of winning a place back in the first team squad, and a key milestone came yesterday when he played for the entire ninety minutes of Rovers' latest behind-closed-doors friendly fixtures. Rovers travelled to face Chesterfield, with all players who have not played regularly for the first team recently playing most of the match.
Rovers assistant manager Richard O'Kelly said: "The highlight for us was that Sean McDaid got 90 minutes under his belt as part of his comeback from his knee injury. The game was a good test and although Chesterfield scored the only goal it was more about match fitness and practice. Both sides created good chances in bitterly cold conditions and we were pleased about the level of competitiveness of the game."
McDaid last played for the Rovers first team against Leyton Orient towards the end of the 2007/08 season.

December 17, 2009

Rovers pair making progress

Rovers skipper Brian Stock is continuing to make good progress as he builds up his fitness after his ankle operation which has kept him out of the Rovers first team since September. Whilst yesterday's friendly match at Chesterfield appears to have come a little too early for Stock, a return some time over the Christmas/New Year period still appears to be on the cards.
Richard O'Kelly commented: "He's looking strong; he's worked on his fitness with Ross Burbeary and he's looking the part and when he comes back into the group he won't be too short on fitness even though he's been out for nearly three months with his ankle. The fact that he has been out so long makes it important that we don't try and rush Brian back too quickly, and we haven't done that."
Steve Brooker is continuing to progress towards a playing return. O'Kelly continued: "Steve is still working with the physio staff and building up his fitness day by day and he's looking okay."

December 17, 2009

Coaches to Coventry

The Supporters Club are running coaches to the away match at Coventry City on Boxing Day - but they have asked anyone wanting to book a seat to do so by the end of Tuesday next week, so the Supporters Club can ensure that sufficient coaches are booked.
They will leave Retford at 10.30am, Bawtry 10.45am, Harworth Pit Gates 10.35am, Rossington Styrrup 10.45am, Hare & Tortoise 10.50am, Doncaster Royal Infirmary 11.00am and Keepmoat Stadium Car Park 1 at 11.15am.
The fares will be:
Members £12.00 - OAP's £11.00 - U16's £10.00
Non-Members £14.00 - OAP's £13.00 - U16's £12.00
To book your places, please phone Harry Bacon (01302 854626), Len South (01302 817347), or Paul Mayfield (01427 880154).

December 17, 2009

Schofield - a man with a plan

Ex-Rovers skipper John Schofield, is still uncertain of his future despite being in temporary charge at Cheltenham Town since the departure of Martin Allen last week. The Robins have invited applications for the job - with Schofield being encouraged to make an application. However, it is likely to be the end of the year before the successful applicant is confirmed.
Speaking a few days ago, Schofield said: "The board have backed me with loan signings, but are there things I might do differently if I was in charge? Of course there are. I am being judged anyway, whether I am fully in charge or not, so I have to get on with it as best I can. But there are things I can't do until I am named full-time manager."
The club have issued a statement as follows: "Acting manager John Schofield and the rest of the staff have done an excellent job in difficult circumstances over the past few weeks and John has been asked to apply for the manager's job. However the board will also be considering applications from outside the organisation and the deadline is Friday, December 18 at 5pm. The board will then hold interviews with the aim of making an appointment before the end of December."
Schofield is confident that he is good enough to get the job. He said: "I can't get any more footballing qualifications than I have got. I hear all the 'cheap option' shouts, but nobody knows what salary I am on, so how does anyone know it's the cheap option? If I'm asked to continue doing it, great. If not and another man comes in I am quite adept at doing any job at the football club."

December 16, 2009

Derby tickets

Tickets for the away game at Derby County are still on sale from the Keepmoat Stadium ticket office, which have reported that sales of tickets have edged up to 1,018 of the 2,742 allocation given to Rovers.
Tickets for the game are now on general sale - they will remain on sale unitl midday on Friday, 18th December.
Ticket prices are:
Adults: £24
Senior Citizens (60+): £14
Juniors (16 & under): £9
Wheelchair/Ambulant disabled: £15 (carer free)
All requests by disabled supporters for car parking spaces should be made direct to Derby County on 01332 667531 - car parking will cost £6.

December 16, 2009

Vote for Billy in PFA "Player of the Month"

Whilst Newcastle United midfielder Kevin Nolan has been grabbing the headlines for his goal scoring exploits, with his tenth goal of the season arriving at Barnsley at the weekend, Billy Sharp's recent run of form could yet thwart the Toon Army's campaign for Nolan to win the third consecutive PFA Fans' Player of the Month award for the Championship.
To recognise the remarkable feat of Sharp in scoring five games in a row - which also means Sharp is up to ten goals for the season, despite not making his Rovers debut until mid-September, and not scoring his first goal until 26th September - we are asking you to register your vote on their website. Just click on the logo to the left, or visit http://fansaward.givemefootball.com as soon as possible!

December 16, 2009

Foster on the move

Former Doncaster Rovers midfielder Martin Foster has completed a transfer from Eastwood Town to UniBond club Harrogate Town.
Foster played 27 games for Rovers between 1998 and 2001 after joining from Greenock Morton - he left Rovers to join Ilkeston Town, and has moved around a number of non-league clubs since then.

December 16, 2009

Rovers Belles drawn at home in cup

Doncaster Rovers Belles have been given a home tie in the fourth round of the Women's FA Cup, which is scheduled to be played on Sunday, 10th January. They have received what ought to be an easy tie, at home to Havant & Waterlooville or Cardiff City.
Meanwhile, the Rovers Belles are at home to Millwall Lionesses this Sunday (20th December), with the match kicking off at 2pm.

December 16, 2009

Ryan's unwanted achievement

Ex-Rovers right back Ryan Kirby achieved the dubious distinction of being Boreham Wood's first player to be sent off a couple of weekends ago in their game against Ashford Town - the match ended up as a 3-3 draw, but was available for Saturday's FA Trophy game against AFC Wimbledon (which Boreham Wood lost 2-1).