October 31, 2009

Rovers v Blackpool

Rovers should welcome back Gareth Roberts for this afternoon's home game against Blackpool after he has recovered from a calf strain. James O'Connor is expected to be fit after picking up a thigh strain during the game at Newcastle last weekend.
Still absent are Brian Stock, Adam Lockwood, Byron Webter, Steve Brooker and Sean McDaid, all of who are still recovering from injury.
Blackpool will be without Charie Adam and Ishmel Demontagnac due to suspsension and they have doubts about Neal Eardley, who will have a late check on his injured knee before Ian Holloway names his side. Striker Daniel Nardiello has returned to training and could be included on Blackpool's substitute bench this afternoon.
Blackpool have not conceded a goal for over four and a half hours of Championsip football, so maybe another goalless draw is on the cards?

October 31, 2009

Today's match officials

The match officials for this afternoon's home game against Blackpool have been confirmed as:
Referee: M Oliver
Assistant referees: P Bramley & KDG Lawson
Fourth official: DJH England

October 31, 2009

Youth team game - new date

As we reported yesterday, today's youth team game at Grimsby Town has been postponed due to the outbreak of Swine Flue amongst the youth squad.
The clubs have now agreed a new date for the match, which will now be played on Friday, 27th November, with a 2pm kick-off.
The draw for the second round of the Football League Youth Alliance Cup has also been made. Rovers have been drawn away to Walsall, and the match will be played on Saturday, 7th November with an 11am kick-off.

October 31, 2009

Green back for Rams?

Former Rovers midfielder Paul Green could be in with an outside chance of making the substitutes bench for Derby this afternoon when they play Ipswich Town at Portman Road. This season has been blighted by a foot injury, with another operation proving necessary to repair a broken metatarsal, which he originally broke at the end of last season. He has missed the last eight first team matches.
A more realistic return is for the televised match at Pride Park against Coventry City on Friday, 6th November.

October 30, 2009

Youth game off

Doncaster Rovers' youth team game at Grimsby Town tomorrow has been postponed as a direct result of two members of the youth squad catching Swine Flu. Until those two players have fully recovered, and no symptoms have been shown in the rest fo the squad, Paul Wilson's squad are being kept away from training and contact with other players.
Accordingly, no date has yet been set for the rearranged game.
Tomorrow's first team game at home to Blackpool is unaffected by the outbreak and goes ahead as scheduled.

October 30, 2009

Northampton try-out for Gilbert

Former Doncaster Rovers loan defender Peter Gilbert played the full 90 minutes of Northampton Town's reserve team game against Wycombe Wanderers on Tuesday as he strives to find a new club. The Cobblers included two trialsists - Gilbert and winger Andre Costa - in the game, which they lost 2-0, with Northampton's local press suggesting that Gilbert had a very steady game. Northampton's management team of Ian Sampson and Malcolm Crosby are on the look-out for a left back, and Gilbert's experience could well be in his favour. However, no decision has been made on either trialist, but both will continue to train with Northampton.

October 30, 2009

Forte on target against City

Ex-Rovers loanee Jonathan Forte scored an equaliser for Scunthorpe United on Tuesday evening in their Carling Cup game at Manchester City. However, despite going in at the break level at 1-1, City proved to be far too good for the Championship club, with the Premiership outfit running out as 5-1 winners with Carlos Tevez outstanding for City.

October 30, 2009

Plymouth coach info

The Supporters will be running coaches to the away game at Plymouth Argyle next Saturday (7th November).
They will leave Retford at 6.30am, Bawtry 6.45am, Harworth Pit Gates 6.35am, Rossington Styrrup 6.45am, Hare & Tortoise 6.50am, Doncaster Royal Infirmary 7.00am and Keepmoat Stadium Car Park 1 at 7.15am.
The fares will be:
Members £25.00, OAP's £23.00, U16's £21.00
Non-Members £27.00, OAP's £25.00, U16's £23.00
To book a place on the coach, please contact Harry Bacon (01302 854626), Len South (01302 817347) or Paul Mayfield (01427 880154).

October 29, 2009

O'Kelly - players learn lessons from defeat

Rovers' assistant manager Richard O'Kelly has promised that the players will learn some valuable lessons from Saturday's defeat at Newcastle United. He told the Doncaster Star: "You always learn lessons from any game. You go away and look at things and see what you could have done better. You talk about the game and look at the video. The way we failed to take anything from the Newcastle game was gut wrenching and it wasn't a nice journey home, but the players came in on Monday morning and we had a chat about a few things. We got out on to the training pitch and we started to work on things and put them right and the players we've got are all for that. They are all prepared to listen and then go out and work on things and also have an input into what we actually do. Our coaching is based around players making decisions because we can't make decisions for them during a game.

October 29, 2009

Rovers quarantine training ground

Doncaster Rovers have banned everyone but first team squad members from attending the training ground at Cantley Park after two members of the youth team have contracted the Swine Flue virus and other cases are being investigated.
That means that the scheduled visit today by Junior Rovers members has been cancelled, although anyone who was due to visit today will be given priority when the next visit is organised.
The move has been made to minimise the chances of the virus spreading to the first team squad.
Most of the players and backroom staff had their annual flu jab earlier this week. John Dickens said: "It's not compulsory, but the majority of people have it done. You can get some very minor symptoms for 24 hours but that's it and the players will all be okay to train on Thursday."

October 29, 2009

Treatment room update

Gareth Roberts is set to make a return to the squad for Saturday's home game against Blackpool. He started light training at the start of the week after recovering from a calf strain, and had no ill effects, so has resumed full training and will be available on Saturday. James O'Connor will also be fit for Saturday after picking up a knock in Saturday's game.
Adam Lockwood, who has been out for a month after breaking a bone in his foot against Swansea City, is visiting the specialist on Saturday, when he hopes to be able to remove the walking boot he has worn since picking up the injury. He said: ."I'll get to know next week when I go back and see the specialist and find out if it's healed OK. I'm working hard every day to keep my strength up as best as possible. I'm aiming to get back as quickly as I can. It's always frustrating when you're injured. It's the most frustrating time for a player, but you've got to try to keep involved and support your team-mates."
Lockwood is expected to be out for another four weeks as he recovers from the injury.
Brian Stock's recovery has been slightly delayed after the Rovers skipper picked up a virus, which means he will stay away from the training ground to avoid passing it on to any more of the players.
Steve Brooker is continuing his rehabilitation from an Achilles tendon operation, with no adverse reaction reported so far.

October 29, 2009

Schofield not after Allen's job

Ex-Rover John Schofield has insisted that he is concentrating on improving the results of Cheltenham Town, rather than pushing his claim for the manager's job on a permanent basis. Schofield is in temporary charge of the first team after boss Martin Allen was placed on gardening leave whilst the club investigate allegations of an incident outside a local nightclub.
Schofield guided Cheltenham to a draw against Port Vale last weekend, and faces a home game against Crewe this weekend."I don't feel I am staking my claims. That's never crossed my mind and it is not the driving force behind what we are trying to do.
He said: "We are trying to get results and we have been entrusted with the club being in safe hands until the situation with the gaffer is resolved. At the end of the period, however long that may be, my job will be to say 'here is your football club' and I can't make any more decisions after that. There will then either be a decision for me to make or no decision to make. It is a massively difficult situation for us, but my job is football and that's all I like to talk about."

October 28, 2009

Fairhurst delighted with start at Shrews

Rovers striker Waide Fairhurst, on loan at Shrewsbury Town, looked back on his debut for the Shrews with great pleasure after scoring once and setting up the other two goals in a 3-1 home win over Aldershot.
The 20 year old striker still remains keen to force his way back into the side at Doncaster in the long term, but is focussed in making his loan spell at Shrewbury as successful as possible.
Fairhurst said: “I was delighted to get the first goal and hopefully there are a few more to come over the next few games, but the most important thing was to get the win and to get us up and around the top placings. We started sloppily but got a bit of luck with the sending off (of David Winfield) and did well for the rest of the game."
“I look forward to going back to Doncaster down the line but, at the moment, I’m just focusing and keeping my head down and trying to score goals for Shrewsbury Town.”
Fairhurst admits that he was surprised to be sent out on loan after doing well when given the opportunity at Rovers. He continued: “My manager at Doncaster (Sean O’Driscoll) rang me on Wednesday afternoon and said that Shrewsbury wanted to take me on loan. I had got in the team at Doncaster earlier in the season and thought I had done well and taken my chance, but that’s the way it goes. I wanted to come to Shrewsbury and from what I saw Saturday, it’s a really good club. I just want to play games and enjoy my football.”

October 28, 2009

Nelly after loan move

Former Doncaster Rovers winger Craig Nelthorpe has asked for a loan move away from York City after failing to make a senior start since his move to Bootham (or is that KitKat) Cresecent in the summer.
His York career got off to a less than ideal start when he was sent off in York's final pre-season friendly at Halifax, and then he was arrested along with three other team mates following an "incident" outside the Subway outlet in Clifford Street, York.
Despite not having much opportunity at York, City's manager, Martin Foyle, was surprised at the loan request. He said: “I had planned to play Craig Nelthorpe in the Bedworth match, but he asked for a move before the game so that’s why he didn’t start. I gave the players who want to be at the club a go instead. We’ve sent a circular out to other clubs informing them of his availability and a couple of Blue Square North clubs have shown an interest, so we will see what happens.”
Nelthorpe was included in York's reserve squad to play Harrogate Town last night.

October 28, 2009

McCormack set for court appearance

Ex-Rovers striker Ross McCormack is set for a court appearance in Cardiff on 9th November after being charged with drink driving in the early hours of Sunday morning. McCormack played in Cardiff's win at Sheffield United on the previous afternoon, and had returned on the team coach with the rest of the team. However, he had later gone out in his grey Range Rover, which crashed into metal fencing outside a Harvester restaurant on Dunleavy Drive in Cardiff Bay at 3.44am on Sunday. No other vehicles were involved in the incident, and nobody was injured.
Cardiff City declined to comment, saying that it was a personal matter. McCormack's spokesperson also declined to comment.

October 28, 2009

Blackpool tickets update

Tickets for Saturday's home game against Blackpool are still on general sale from the Keepmoat Stadium ticket office. Sales have edged up slightly in recent days, with 7,858 home tickets sold (including all season tickets) and 575 away tickets.
Admission prices are as follows:
Category A: Adults £23, Concessions £17, Juniors (12-16) £17, 11's & under £10
Category B: Adults £20, Concessions £14, Juniors (12-16) £13, 11's & under £5

October 27, 2009

O'Driscoll - players must make right decisions

Sean O'Driscoll has called on his players to make better decisions during matches following Saturday's defeat at Newcastle, which sees Rovers taking just 8 points out of the last 27.
Again, Rovers kept possession for long periods of Saturday's match before going down to defeat to an injury-time goal.
O'Driscoll said: "All 10 players have to be on their game for us to be fluid and when we get it right we're as good as anyone in this league and better than most. When it's not happening we have to rely on our organisation but we don't want to have to rely on that too much."
"When you're on the ball you have to take responsibility and understand what you're trying to do and make better decisions. I'm not saying play tippy-tappy football but make more decisions and the more right decisions you make the better you are."

October 27, 2009

Youth Team 0 Darlington 2

The youth team went down to a 2- 0 home defeat against Darlington on Saturday.
The result gave Rovers their sixth defeat of the 10-match season, which leaves them 13th out of 14 clubs on 8 points, with just Rotherham United below them.
Unfortunately no further details are available at the moment.

October 27, 2009

Colleagues back Woods

The Doncaster Rovers players have backed Martin Woods to bounce back from the disappointment of missing a penalty at St James' Park on Saturday, with the Rovers midfielder said to be "devastated" over his miss.
Team mate James Coppinger told the Doncaster Star: "We were obviously disappointed that Woodsy (Martin Woods) couldn't convert. He's the type of lad who takes it badly. The lads have tried to do what they can to make him feel better because he is devastated. But he's got nothing to apologise for really. It was a big moment in the game and he stepped up to take it. It's disappointing for both the team and Martin, but he's a big character and he'll bounce back."
"Newcastle is a tough place to come and they've got a lot of players who have played in the Premiership, but I thought that the lads did well. I thought that we were well organised and I thought that we limited their scoring opportunities - especially in the first-half - and it took a great goal to beat us".

October 27, 2009

Voting results

Two midfielders ended up being the main contenders for the "Man of the Match" for Saturday's away game at Newcastle United. With nine players receiving nominations, it ended up being a contest between Dean Shiels and Quinton Fortune, with the experienced former Manchester United man coming out victorious with an assured display.
The players receiving the most votes were as follows:
1 Quinton Fortune (33.33%)
2 Dean Shiels (25.49%)
3 Jason Shackell (11.77%)
4 Simon Gillett (9.80%)
Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote. All votes will go forward to the "Player of the Season". The next poll will open following Saturday's home game against Blackpool.

October 26, 2009

Plymouth ticket info

Tickets for the away fixture at Plymouth Argyle on Saturday, 7th November go on general sale this morning at the Keepmoat Stadium ticket office. Doncaster Rovers have received an initial allocation of 498 tickets, with the Keepmoat site showing that just 64 tickets have been sold so far.
Ticket price for the match are as follows:
Adults: £24
Senior Citizens (65+) & 18-22 years: £16
Under-18s: £7
Family ticket (1 adult & 1 child): £26
Ambulant disabled pay the relevant price, but their carer is admitted free.
Wheelchair disabled supporters should contact Plymouth Argyle direct on 0845 338 7232.

October 26, 2009

Gilbert still looking for new club

Former Doncaster Rovers loan defender Peter Gilbert is still looking to find a new club after his short-term contract at Oldham Athletic came to an end. The 26 year old left Oldham shortly before the transfer deadline to allow him to find a new club, but so far he has been unsuccessful.
Gilbert told Sky Sports: "It has been frustrating for me not being with a club as I just want to be playing football. Every player wants to be playing football and I am no different. I was at Oldham earlier this season on a short-term deal and they offered me the chance to stay there, but I wanted something a bit longer with more security so I decided to leave before the close of the transfer window so I could find myself a new club. I have been training at Mansfield to keep my fitness up .The Mansfield manager, David Holdsworth, who I know from time at Birmingham, has been good enough to let me come in and let me work on my fitness and I am grateful for that. There has been interest from a few Championship and League One clubs and I have spoken to few managers, but for whatever reason nothing has materialised."

October 26, 2009

Hawkins set for move

Former Rovers defender Colin Hawkins is set for a loan move away from Brighton & Hove Albion, although he has only just resumed light training following a heel injury. Hawkins has struggled to hold down a regular first team place this season, and the Seagulls are considering loan moves for a number of players in a similar situation.
Assistant manager Dean White commented: “We are still looking to get people out on loan and players want to go out on loan as well. It is about them wanting to go to the clubs that want them. There has been some interest. We’ll just have to play it day by day.”

October 25, 2009

Newcastle 2 Rovers 1

For so long, it looked very promising for the legion of Doncaster Rovers fans who travelled to St James' Park yesterday. Despite having to rely on Newcastle players to miss an open goal from six yards on two occasions, Rovers went in front in the 18th minute after Billy Sharp pulled the ball back across the face of the Newcastle goal to give Dean Shiels the chance to rifle the ball home from eight hards past a helpless Steve Harper in the Newcastle goal.
Whilst Newcastle spluttered into action on occasions, Rovers were fairly comfortable during the first half and went into the half time break 1-0 up, with a chorus of boos ringing around the stadium as the home fans vented their frustration on their team.
The second half saw Newcastle press forward and Rovers seemed content to sit back much deeper than they had during the first half as the home side tried to get back on level terms. For all that - and two glaring misses, with Jonas Butierrez blazing over from six yards when it seemed impossible to miss, followed by Carroll missing from close range when it seemed easier to score, Rovers stayed in front until the 67th minute when Carroll made amends for his earlier miss by volleying home to level the scores.
Rovers looked rocky for a time - but they then had a chance to seal the points 15 minutes from time when they were awarded a penalty after Taylor handled Sharp's header. However, Woods missed by blazing his spot kick two yards wide of the target - and Newcastle were off the hook. Even though Rovers entered the five minutes added on at the end of the game all-square, there was still time for Newcastle to nick the points as Nolan fired a good angled shot out of the reach of Neil Sullivan to score the home side's second goal of the afternoon.

October 25, 2009

What the managers said

Newcastle boss Chris Hughton was a relieved man after a late goal sealed the points for Newcastle which took the Toon to the top of the Championship table in front of their highest attendance of the season.
He said: "I felt that if there was a side that was going to win it was us. At 1-1 and with the penalty you think the worst, but to get the winner when we did speaks volumes for this group of lads. We've been through all the emotions so to end the game like that was incredible," said the Toon boss after his boys climbed back to the top of the Championship.
"It was a poor start and I was disappointed with the first-half performance. But credit to the lads, the second-half was much better and we got an excellent equaliser through Andy Carroll. They then get a penalty and you think it's not going to be your day. But that feeling of relief when they miss gave us a huge lift."
"Zurab's sending off I'll have to have another look at, but after that you're thinking the game is heading for a draw. But what a feeling it was to see Kevin Nolan's goal and I was delighted for the boys; they were magnificent and deserved the win."
Hughton continued: "I wouldn't rule out an appeal (against the sending off) - I thought their player was the aggressor."
"In the first half they (Doncaster) played a good tactical game but they will keep possession against any team. I thought over the 90 minutes that if there was a side that was going to win the game I felt it was us but at 1-1 and with the penalty you think the worst."
Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll had less to say after the game, but did comment: "Penalties will be scored and missed as long as there are football matches. There's no point hiding behind that, we pride ourselves on doing certain things and at times I thought we didn't do them very well. All we ask is that if they make a mistake they react in a positive manner."
He then said: "If my auntie was my uncle, I would have said the same if we'd have come off winning 1-0. There's no point hiding behind that, we pride ourselves on doing certain things and at times I thought we didn't do them very well. He (Woods) is the skipper. Penalties will be scored and missed as long as there are football matches. He's taken responsibility and the modern game needs players to take responsibility. All we ask is that if they make a mistake they react in a positive manner so in training on Monday morning he's got to be bright."

October 25, 2009

Around the goals

We begin our review of players with a Rovers connection scoring goals this weekend in League One, where Darren Byfield scored for Walsall in their 2-1 defeat at Colchester United, which leaves the Saddlers in 14th place.
In League Two, the prolific Jack Lester scored for Chesterfield in their 5-2 thumping of Burton Albion, which lifts the Spireites into 8th place, one point adrift of the play-off places. Adebayo Akinfenwa scored onf Northampton's goals in their 4-2 win at Morecambe, who had Ben Smith in goal for them.
Waide Fairhurst made an impressive start to his stint at Shrewsbury by opening the scoring for them in the 32nd minute of the Shrews' home game against Aldershot. They eventually went on to win 3-1, which puts them in 7th place on 24 points from 14 games.
In the Blue Square North, Warren Peyton scored for Stalybridge in their 3-1 win at Gainsborough Trinity, and in the UniBond Division One (South), Tristram Whitman scored twice in Carlton Town's 5-2 win over Leek Town.

October 24, 2009

Newcastle v Rovers

Doncaster Rovers welcome Gareth Roberts back into the squad for this afternoon's challenging away game at Newcastle United, after missing Tuesday's match against Peterborough with a calf strain. James O'Connor deputised at right back on Tuesday, with James Chambers filling in at left back - but it looks likely that Sean O'Driscoll will elect to restore Roberts to the starting line-up, meaning that O'Connor is set to miss out.
Midfielder Simon Gillett will be in the squad despite picking up a thigh injury against Peterborough, and Mark Wilson is available after recovering from a calf injury that forced his absence last Saturday.
Definitely missing this afternoon will be Brian Stock (ankle), Adam Lockwood (foot), Byron Webster (elbow), Sean McDaid (knee) and Steve Brooker (ankle).
Newcastle United will be without a number of players for the game, with Steven Taylor (hamstring), Shola Ameobi (foot) and Joey Barton (foot) definitely missing the match. Nicky Butt (illness) and Fabricio Colloccini (groin) have missed recent games, but are expected to return to the squad today. Alan Smith will be absent due to supsension.
Newcastle go into the game having lost the last two matches, including a loss at Scunthorpe on Tuesday, and they have not won in the last four games, whilst Rovers are fresh from their win on Tuesday evening - their first win in eight games.

October 24, 2009

Coppinger looks forward to Toon return

Rovers winger James Coppinger is looking forward to this afternoon's match against Newcastle United, which is one of his former clubs. But he insists that there will be no sentiment attached to the game.
As he told the Yorkshire Post: "It's not going to be an emotional return because it was that long ago it seems like a different life. I feel like I am going back as a lot better player. I've no regrets about joining Newcastle because I learned so much there that has stood me in good stead. I just wish that I knew then what I know now because things could have turned out differently.
"I am looking forward to testing myself against the quality players they have got and if we can go there and express ourselves, hopefully we'll come away with a result," he said.

October 24, 2009

Nolan - Newcastle crisis if they don't beat Donny

Newcastle midfielder Kevin Nolan fears that the Toon will have a "crisis" on their hands if they fail to win this afternoon's match against Rovers. With Chris Hughton expected to be confirmed as their full-time manager some time this weekend, it is vital for Newcastle to stop their recent slump in results, which has seen them pick up just two points from their last four games.
Nolan said: “I accept that if we don’t beat Doncaster at home then even some of our own fans might describe the situation as a crisis. That is down to their expectation and there is nothing wrong with having expectations. The fans should have high expectations, especially in this league with the quality we have got in this squad. We should not be losing three games on the run at Championship level anyway. It is an expectation that we put on ourselves."
"If it does happen on Saturday then no one will be more disappointed than the 11 lads that leave the field in Newcastle shirts. We need a reaction. At the beginning of the season, this many games in, if you had said we’d be in this position, with this many points, we would have taken it. So would the fans. Everyone in Newcastle would have. After some of the stuff we have been through in the last couple of years, they are enjoying where we are at the moment. But we have got to keep producing results. I find it quite difficult when this club is slammed all the time. We have got a group of lads who want to do well.”

October 24, 2009

O'Driscoll relishes Toon prospect

Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll is looking forward to this afternoon's game at Newcastle United, admitting that all the players have been looking forward to the match since the fixtures lists came out in June.
He told the Doncaster Free Press: "There are only three points at stake like any other game, but I suppose this match was always going to have a greater significance for supporters and players for obvious reasons. Like Anfield and Old Trafford I think St James' Park is one of the showpiece grounds of Great Britain. The fans there are fanatical and, like them, I was disappointed myself to see them come down last season. But our job is to go there and give them something to think about. There will be a special atmosphere and it's one that our players should thrive on."

October 24, 2009

Today's match officials

The match officials for this afternoon's game at St James' Park have been confirmed as:
Referee: D Deadman
Assistant referees: A C Newell, S Smith
Fourth Official: D R Street

October 23, 2009

Fairhurst goes out on loan

Doncaster Rovers striker Waide Fairhurst has gone on a month's loan to League Two club Shrewsbury Town. Fairhurst, aged 20, scored in his first two league starts for the club, but has not been included in recent games. Fairhurst said of the move: "I'm here to score goals."
With Rovers not having a reserve team, and first team opportunities appearing limited, the move to Shropshire seems to be the ideal way of Waide gaining some first team experience, which should stand him in good stead once his loan ends.
The loan is for an initial month, although it could be exended in due course.

October 23, 2009

O'Driscoll happy with performances

Going in to tomorrow's challenging game at Newcastle United, Rovers boss Seas O'Driscoll admits that he has no complaints with the way his side have played in recent matches.
He told the Doncaster Free Press: "We were all disappointed with the Barnsley result, but I told the players after the match I would take that performance from them every week. It goes without saying that every game you play you look to win, but for me it's all about performances and if we play as well as we did against Barnsley last Saturday, and in parts of the game against Peterborough on Tuesday night, I'll be delighted."

October 23, 2009

Coach travel to Newcastle

All supporters who have booked on a Supporters Club coach to Newcastle are asked to contact rigo-drfc@hotmail.co.uk so you can confirm which coach you are travelling on. Due to the numbers travelling, there have been a few changes to some coaches, so it should assist things running smoothly tomorrow if you can confirm which coach they are travelling on in advance of arrival at the Keepmoat Stadium in the morning.

October 23, 2009

Celts in the dark over Ben

Farsley Celtic are in the dark as to whether they can expect Ben Muirhead to play for the club again. He turned out for King's Lynn in the UniBond Premier Division last weekend, but they understand that he wants to return to Celtic. However, they have not heard anything from the player, so are planning for tomorrow's game on the presumption that he will not be attending.
Whilst Muirhead is able to turn out for King's Lynn in the UniBond League, Farsley still hold his player registration for the Conference.

October 23, 2009

Voting results

We would like to thank the many supporters who have taken part in the latest "Man of the Match" voting, which has seen one of the highest number of votes cast this season. A total of eight different players received nominations, with those receiving most votes being:
1 Dean Shiels (36.84%)
2 Jason Shackell (27.63%)
3 Simon Gillett (10.53%)
4 Sam Hird (7.89%)
Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote - the next poll will open tomorrow evening following the away game at Newcastle United.

October 22, 2009

Schofield in charge as Allen is suspended

Former Doncaster Rovers captain John Schofield has been placed in charge of Cheltenham Town's first team on a temporary basis following yesterday's news that boss Martin Allen had been suspended by the club. Reports in Cheltenham's local press alleged that Allen was involved in a "foul-mouthed tirade" at doorstaff at the Thirteen Degrees night club in Cheltenham, with suggestions that he used racist abuse at one of the door staff.
Allen has been placed on "gardening leave" whilst Cheltenham Town look into the incident.
Their statement reads: "Due to adverse reports in the press today regarding Martin Allen the board of directors have informed Martin that he will not be required to attend work pending the outcome of an investigation into the allegations that have been reported. Martin Allen has therefore been placed on garden leave and John Schofield has been asked to take temporary charge of team affairs pending the outcome of the club's investigation."
Allen has vowed to clear his name, issuing a statement through the League Managers Association which reads: "A number of false and grossly untrue allegations have recently been made about me. I wish to confirm the allegations - including that I made a racial remark - are untrue and deeply hurtful. I will now be taking steps to clear my name."
The police have stated that they had received no report of the incident, but following reports in the media, they would be looking into the matter further. Gloucestershire Police said: "Officers will be in contact with the nightclub to speak to staff in order to establish if any crime has been committed."

October 22, 2009

O'Kelly challenges Shackell to score more goals

Assistant manager Richard O'Kelly has challenged on loan defender Jason Shackell to score more goals after scoring his first for the club in Tuesday night's game against Peterborough.
He said: "Jason should score more goals. He heads the ball more than anyone on the pitch but he doesn't get on the end of enough set-pieces in the box and that is something that he's got to add to his game. He's aware of it and he's talked about it."
O'Kelly also praised Shackell's fellow centre-back for his performance on Tuesday, commenting: "Sam dominated his area in the second half and he broke the play up well. His use of the ball was very good and he looked the player we hope that he can become."

October 22, 2009

Rob on the move

Former Rovers youth team defender Rob Pacey has completed a transfer from UniBond club Goole AFC to Ossett Albion, who play in the UniBond League Division One (North). Pacey has played at non-league level since being released by Doncaster Rovers after his first season as a professional at the end of the 2006/07 season.

October 22, 2009

Rigoglioso set for Chester?

It seems that former Rovers player Adriano Rigoglioso may be about to join Chester City after boss Jim Harvey invited him to train with the squad following Rigoglioso's departure from Grays Athletic.
The whole situation appears mysterious, since the statement issued by Grays said that the player had a knee injury that would keep him out of action for the remainder of the season, hence their decision to come to a settlement to pay off his contract.
Harvey said: “He’s training with us but he hasn’t played for three weeks so we’re having to up his fitness. We’ll assess him in training and if he’s right for us, he could join.”

October 20, 2009

Rovers 3 Peterborough 1

Doncaster Rovers picked up their second win of the season this evening as they beat a clearly struggling Peterborough United side. Rovers were 2-0 within 21 minutes thanks to goals from Billy Sharp and Dean Shiels, although Peterborough pulled a goal back ten minutes later. The goals dried up after that, and it appeared that, with around ten minutes to go, Rovers had settled for a 2-1 win. However, Jason Shackell headed home from a corner in the 85th minute to make the win much more comfortable. The win takes Rovers up to 18th place, and should instil some confidence ahead of the challenging trip to Newcastle on Saturday.

October 21, 2009

What the managers said

Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll was grateful for getting some more points on the board after last night's win - Rovers' second of the season.
He said: "Every point in this division is precious, so to get three is pleasing. We've played much better than that and not got anything out of the game so it's a crazy division. We started off a little bit nervously but then we had a purple patch where we scored two goals."
On the other hand, whilst Peterborough boss Darren Ferguson accepts that it is ultimately his responsibility, he also pushed some of the blame onto his players after last night's result, which leaves Posh in the bottom three.
Ferguson said: "I'm the manager and I've got to take full responsibility for the results we've had and I do. The players have got to start taking responsibility for the performances as well. But as a group this is nowhere near good enough. We've played 13 games. We've had one win. You don't have to be a genius to work that out, it's nowhere near good enough. It's got to change and it's got to change quick, I'm fully aware of that."
Of Peterborough's appeal for a penalty, when the ball appeared to strike James O'Connor on the arm, Ferguson said: "The referee has made a decision and he's had to make it quick. That's the way it goes. Some you get some you don't. It would probably have had a bearing on the result because we would have got it to 2-2 at half time. I feel over the 90 minutes Donny deserved the win."

October 21, 2009

Money talks as Rovers set to miss out on Vokes

Sean O'Driscoll's attempts to boost his goal-shy strike force seem unlikely to be successful if yesterday's Yorkshire Post is to be believed. They indicate that Vokes is likely to head to Leeds United after Rovers were priced out of any prospects of a loan move.
O'Driscoll is quoted as saying: "We were talking to Sam but so where many other clubs. Finances are the dictating factor in football at this minute in time and we were out of the market."
The Rovers boss then pointed out that Rovers still have six strikers on the books, but recognises that the team have to score more goals if they are not to struggle this season. He said: "We have got to score more goals – any man in the street can tell you that, but to score goals, you have got to create chances. We got many attributes right today but people pay millions of pounds for strikers. Getting beaten when you have outplayed the opposition is a common theme with us. I will take that performance every day but the result is a disappointment. Sometimes you are in the lap of the gods. If you don't take your opportunities, especially in a local derby, you give the opposition a chance."

October 21, 2009

Andy in "Team of the Week"

Former Rovers goalkeeper Andy Warrington was named in the League Two's "Team of the Week" by the Press Association for his performance against Notts County, which saw Rotherham United end their match against Notts County with a goalless draw after having to play for the last 40 minutes with ten men after Nick Fenton was sent off.
The full team named for League Two was: Andy Warrington (Rotherham), Ryan Austin (Burton Albion), Ian Sharps (Rotherham), Ryan Garry (Bournemouth), Ryan Valentine (Hereford), Ben Davies (Notts County), Jamie Devitt (Darlington), Jacques Maghoma (Burton Albion), Steve Guinan (Northampton), Chris O’Grady (Rochdale)

October 20, 2009

Rovers v Peterborough

Midfielders John Oster and Quinton Fortune will be available for this evening's home game against Peterborough United after completing three match suspensions which resulted from the red cards the pair received in the eventful match at Scunthorpe United. Their return will be a boost to Rovers' injury hit squad, with midfielder Mark Wilson also likely to return after recovering from a calf injury.
However, Brian Stock (ankle), Steve Brooker (ankle), Adam Lockwood (foot) and Byron Webster (elbow) are still missing. Whilst Sean McDaid has now returned to full training, he will clearly be a number of weeks away from being fit enough to be included in the first team.
Rovers will give late fitness tests to Martin Woods (groin) and James Coppinger, who has been troubled with a calf injury for several weeks. Both missed training yesterday.
Rovers will be looking to get back on the winning track against a Peterborough team who come into the game in the bottom three and who appear to be suffering from the same problems that Rovers experienced at this stage last season. Rovers had been averaging a point a game until Saturday, when they experienced their first home defeat of the season, but should have as good a chance of success this evening.
Peterborough will be without midfielder Paul Coutts, who has a foot injury, so Doncaster born Danny Rose is set to continue in his place. Sergio Torres has returned to the club after his loan at Lincoln City has ended, and could be included this evening.

October 20, 2009

Tonight's match officials

The match officials for this evening's home game against Peterborough United have been confirmed as:
Referee: C H Webster
Assistant Referees: I A Dudley and P Graham
Fourth Official: D K Benton

October 20, 2009

Ticket sales update

The Keepmoat Stadium website suggests that a crowd of around 8,500 will attend this evening's home game against Peterborough United, with only around 250 tickets sold so far by Peterborough United, whilst 7,835 tickets have been sold for the home parts of the ground. (including season ticket sales).
Tickets will remain on sale at the ticket office until kick-off at the following prices:
Category A: Adults £23, Concessions £17, Juniors (12-16) £17, 11's & under £10
Category B: Adults £20, Conessions £14, Juniors (12-16) £13, 11's & under £5.

October 20, 2009

McDaid on the way back

Sean McDaid has taken a significant step on the way back to full fitness by taking part in his first full training session with the rest of the squad after recovering from knee surgery. McDaid has been out of action since midway through the 2007/08 season, when he suffered a dislocated knee - and then suffered a setback last season when stepping up his training regime, which resulted in him having another operation. However, with Rovers not having a reserve team, it looks as though McDaid will be going out on loan in order to gain some match practice and to get back to full fitness.
Boss Sean O'Driscoll said: "He's just stepped up training today, making full contact and the next step would be to put him out into a game in the near future. For him, we'd probably try to loan him out to someone to boost his match fitness and get him back into the swing of things."

October 20, 2009

Voting results

There were four main contenders in the voting for the "Man of the Match" voting for Saturday's home defeat against Barnsley. Out of a total of nine players receiving nominations, the following gained the most votes:
1 Simon Gillett (27.12%)
2 James Coppinger (18.64%)
3 Sam Hird (15.25%)
4 Martin Woods (13.56%)
We thank everyone for the time and effort in placing their vote, with a pleasing number contributing - maybe as a result of the VSC website suffering technical problems denying access to many. The next vote will open following this evening's home game against Peterborough United.

October 19, 2009

Newell sacked

Former Rovers striker Mike Newell has been sacked as manager by Grimsby Town after the club's poor start to the season, which leaves them with only crisis club Darlington below them in the League Two table, meaning they are in real danger of being relegated to the Blue Square Premier League.
Grimsby went down to a 2-0 home defeat against Rochdale on Saturday, meaning they have ten points from their opening 13 matches.
Intriguingly, the statement issued by Grimsby Town reads: "Despite the intention for support beyond the recent poor results, the club has dismissed Mike due to irretrievable breakdown."
"The directors believe they have done everything possible to back him during his period with the club but were left with no alternative but to terminate his contract with immediate effect. The club appreciates Mike Newell's efforts to take this football club forward and wish him all the best for the future. The club will now begin the task of selecting and appointing a new manager."
Ex-Rovers striker Neil Woods, Grimsby's youth team boss, has taken over as caretaker manager until a successor to Newell is named.

October 19, 2009

Taylor on target

One former Rover scoring a goal at the weekend that we missed in yesterday's roundup is Gareth Taylor, who scored Wrexham's winning goal just before the interval in their 2-1 home win over Grays Athletic. The strike was Taylor's eighth league goal of the season, which enabled Wrexham to climb to 16th place in the Blue Square Premier.

October 19, 2009

Rovers Belles 2 Chelsea 2

Doncaster Rovers Belles ended Chelsea's 100% record yesterday when they held the Londoners to a 2-2 draw, with the match being played on Keepmoat Stadium's second pitch. Rovers Belles went two goals in front, with Vicky Exley and Rachel Williams giving Doncaster an excellent start, but Chelsea hit back with a goal by Curtis just before half time, with Curtis grabbing the equaliser in the second half to earn Chelsea a point.
Doncaster Rovers Belles: Nicola Hobbs, Emma Johnson, Claire Utley, Natasha Staniland, Vanessa Leat, Tori Williams, Vicky Exley, Rachel Williams, Precious Hamilton, Sarah Owen, Liz Hansen.
Substitutes (not used): Chelsea Weston, Emily Simpkins & Amy Vaughan.

October 19, 2009

Nicol loses assistant as Mariner returns to England

Ex-Rovers defender Steve Nicol, now manager at US club New England Revolution, is without an assistant manager this morning following the resignation of his assistant manager Paul Mariner on Saturday. Nicol's assistant has worked in the United States for the past 20 years, but is expected to be named as Plymouth Argyle's assistant manager this week. The move has been widely expected, but becomes more likely follwoign news that Plymouth's assistant manager Kevin Summerfield left the club on Friday after being told that his contact will not be renewed.
Mariner's departure from New England comes just one match from the end of the regular US season, with the Revolution looking doutbful to qualify for the end of season play-offs - although they still stand a chance if they win their final match against Columbus Crew on Sunday.
Nicol has been boss for eight seasons at Revolution, having initially joined Boston Bulldogs in September 1999 after leaving Doncaster Rovers.
Since joining Revolution, Nicol has guided the club to the play-offs in each of his seven previous seasons, but this season New England are one of six teams chasing bottom two play-off places - their rivals being Colorado, Toronto, DC United, FC Dallas and Real Salt Lake.

October 18, 2009

Rovers 0 Barnsley 1

Doncaster Rovers' unbeaten home record was broken yesterday as Barnsley continued their recent good form by taking all three points from the South Yorkshire derby. For the first 70 minutes, Rovers had probably won the bout on points, but as has been the case all season, they were unable to carve real goal scoring opportunities, although particulalry in the first twenty minutes, both defences were fortunate not to concede with some last-ditch defending keeping the scoreline blank.
Rovers included Simon Gillett for his debut, and the midfielder went on to have an assured debut and looks like he will fit in well with the style that Rovers play. Rovers could have taken the lead but were denied when Dean Shiels fired the ball against the crossbar as Rovers dominated the possession. However, with James Hayter often appearing to "go missing" and the Barnsley defence cutting out an prospect of the ball reaching Billy Sharp, maybe it was not surprising that it was Shiels and Coppinger who had the best opportunities to break the deadlock.
Whilst Rovers pushed forward in the final 15 minutes in search of the equaliser, their efforts were to no avail, with the result seeing Rovers dip another two places in the league table, although they remain three points above the bottom three.

October 18, 2009

What the managers said

The problem that Doncaster Rovers have in scoring goals is becoming a concern for Sean O'Driscoll, who fears that his side may be dragged into the relegation dogfight unless fortunes improve.
Speaking after yesterday's game against Barnsley, O'Driscoll said: "Getting beaten when you have outplayed the opposition is something of a common theme for us. We've been here before but, if we perform like that every week, I will have no complaints. We don't score goals. Any man in the street can tell you that. To score you need to create chances and we do. We have most of the attributes, we are just missing that little bit at the end."
Yesterday's result sees Rovers without a win in the last seven games and just three points ahead of the bottom three.
He continued: "Getting beaten when you have outplayed the opposition is something of a common theme for us. We made one mistake and that's enough at this level. We've been here before, but I would take that performance every day. If we perform like that every week I will have no complaints, but I am disappointed with the result. If you don't take your chances you give the opposition a chance."
Barnsley boss Mark Robins was understandably pleased with the performance of his side after the match yesterday.
He said: "We were under the cosh for a lot of the game, but we kept our shape and that's important. Once we got the goal we improved a lot. There was a bit of anxiety in our play and that was apparent until we scored and then we got a lift and some confidence. From my perspective that's a magnificent three points. This is a tight league and a win like that has a big effect."
"It was very similar to the Swansea game. You have to keep your discipline - that is what we have done and we got a good goal on the back of it. This is a tight league and a win like that has a big effect. I am extremely happy but we have another tough game coming up against Nottingham Forest. 'We can play better than that, but it's all about three points. You don't get pretty football all the time in a derby match.'

October 18, 2009

O'Driscoll confirms money is the problem

Sean O'Driscoll confirmed that he is intereseted in strengthening his goal-shy attack, but admitted that cost is the major stumbling block, commenting: "Again it comes down to money. We can't compete with some clubs in that regard."
O'Driscoll and O'Kelly have admitted that they are interested in Sam Vokes and his Wolves teammate Sander Puri during the last week, but with competition from other clubs, the chances of that interest being converted into either joining on loan look slim.

October 18, 2009

Goals round-up

We begin our review of goals scored by former Rovers players this weekend in League One, where Jon-Paul Pittman scored an 87th minute equaliser to earn Wycombe Wanderers a point in their home game against Colchester United. Pittman latched onto a great through ball from Craig Woodman to slot the ball past Ben Williams in the Colchester goal to give new Chairboys boss Gary Waddock a point in his first game in charge.
Ben Smith made his debut for Morecambe against Torquay United yesterday, but he had to pick the ball out of the net in the 19th minute when Torquay were awarded a penalty, with a well taken spot kick by Nicky Wroe giving Smith no chance. Morecambe could have equalised just short of half time, but former Rovers midfielder Tyrone Thompson cleared the ball off the line.
It has probably not escaped your attention that Matt Mills scored for Reading. His 6th minute goal put them ahead against West Bromwich Albion, but the Baggies hit back with a 29th minute equaliser followed by two second half goals to leave Reading struggling in relegation trouble.
Fortunes were not good for former Rovers defender Nick Fenton yesterday in Rotherham's goalless draw against Notts County. He was shown a red card for a second bookable offence after fouling Ben Davies on the edge of the Millers' penalty area, giving the referee little option but to show a yellow card.
In the Blue Square Premier, Chris Beardsley scored for Stevenage Borough in their 3-1 home win over Salisbury, and ex-Rovers youth striker Michael Rankine scored York's 71st minute equaliser in their 1-1 draw at home to Oxford United.

October 18, 2009

Youth team crash to defeat

Doncaster Rovers' youth team were soundly beaten by Bradford City yesterday morning, with the Bantams emerging from the match played at Rawdon Meadows, Apperley Bridge victorious by a 4-1 scoreline. City striker Oliver Forsyth grabbed all four Bradford goals - as the only report available is from the Bradford site, no details of the Rovers side are currently available.

October 17, 2009

Rovers v Barnsley

The contrast between the two squads for this afternoon's South Yorkshire derby could not be greater - the Rovers squad has been decimated by injury and suspension, whereas Barnsley have just one player unavailable through injury.
Rovers are expected to give new loan signing Simon Gillett his debut in midfield this afternoon, although things may be helped following news that James Coppinger has resumed training late this week, as has striker James Hayter, who has recovered from a 'dead leg'.
The Rovers list of absentees is lengthy, with the following unavailable today: Brian Stock (knee), Mark Wilson (calf), Adam Lockwood (foot), Sean McDaid (knee), Steve Brooker (ankle), Byron Webster (elbow), John Oster (suspended) and Quinton Fortune (suspended).
Goalkeeper Ben Smith will also be unavailable after starting a month's loan at Morecambe yesterday.
Rovers will be hoping that they can pick up a win after drawing their last four matches - and a total of eight draws out of eleven matches played. Whilst Rovers have only lost twice so far, their points tally sees them four places and three points above the relegation places, so an upturn in fortunes would be welcome.
Barnsley have enjoyed an upturn in form following the arrival of Mark Robins as manager, and are now just below Rovers on goal difference. They will be without defender Bobby Hassell, who has returned to training after an Achilles injury, but is not expected to play. Emil Hallfredsson has had a knee problem of late, but is expected to be passed fit for today's match.
On-loan Stoke defenders Carl Dickinson and Ryan Shotton and Southampton goalkeeper Bartosz Bialkowski are expected to retain their places, with Jon Macken and Iain Hume forming a two-man attack as Barnsley chase a third successive league win.

October 17, 2009

O'Driscoll on Barnsley

Rovers go into this afternoon's game against Barnsley intent on maintaining their unbeaten home record so far this season, with three points required to ease some relegation worries. Sean O'Driscoll knows that Rovers will have to play better than then did against Barnsley last season, with the Oakwell outfit doing the double over Rovers.
O'Driscoll said of Barnsley: "They've always impressed me. I said last season that they were a team who always try to play football and had a good balance. They strengthened during the summer with one or two really good signings and I was as surprised as anyone when Simon (Davey) got the sack because I feel that they have the basics to be as good or as bad as anybody in this division."
The Rovers boss is wary of the threat caused by Barnsley, who have recently appointed Mark Robins as their manager. He said: "Whenever a new manager takes over a team, there is a halo effect. Research has been done which shows that when a new manager comes in nine times out of ten initially results improve. If any new boss comes into any organisation everybody is on their toes, and I would imagine that is what has happened at Barnsley. They've had one or two good results and the objective for them will be to try and keep it going and be consistent – we are all aiming for that."
"Iain Hume coming back has given them a lift. I think that he has got something a little bit different to run-of-the-mill Championship players. He's come back from an horrific injury so I would imagine that he's full of enthusiasm and vigour, and that rubs off on other people as well."

October 17, 2009

Rovers play 'behind closed doors' match against City

Doncaster Rovers held a "behind closed doors" friendly match against Mancheser City on Tuesday, which gave new signing Simon Gillett a chance to play for the first time with his new teammates. It sounds as though Gillett fitted in quite well, with Richard O'Kelly commenting: "He's a player who we've tracked for the last couple of years. For whatever reason he's not fancied at Southampton, but one man's meat is another's poison and, as I say, he's a player we've always rated. He showed in the game against Manchester City, just as we thought he would, that he's our sort of player. He can see a pass; he has the ability to switch play and he can see a through ball. He's a good all-round player. He can sit in front of the back-four or he can push forward."
James Coppinger and John Spicer played played half a game against City after resuming training and suffered no adverse reaction, so are expected to feature against Barnsley this afternoon. Midfielders Mark Wilson and Dean Shiels missed that game to have further treatment at Cantley Park, but both are expected to have resumed training.

October 16, 2009

O'Driscoll after Wolves duo

It has been an open secret that Sean O'Driscoll is interested in signing young Wolves striker Sam Vokes, but it now appears that the Rovers boss is also interested in Wolves' Estonian international Sander Puri. In an interview with the Doncaster Free Press, O'Driscoll said: "Our interest in Vokes is well known but there are four or five other clubs who have made enquiries and again it's down to money. We've had the Estonian lad watched and spoken to his agent but he's not out of contract yet as we first thought. The next step may be to bring him over for a trial but we're monitoring the situation and it's on-going."
However, in the same interview, any rumours of Rovers being interested in Ipswich pair Jon Stead and Owen Garvan were quickly dismissed, with O'Driscoll saying: "Stead and Garvan are not really on our radar because of the cost involved."

October 16, 2009

Coaches to Newcastle

The Supporters Club are running coaches to the away game at Newcastle United on Saturday, 24th October. They will leave Retford at 10am, Bawtry 10.15am, Harworth Pit Gates 10.05am, Rossington Styrrup 10.15am, Hare & Tortoise 10.20am, Doncaster Royal Infirmary 10.30am and the Keepmoat Stadium, Car Park 1 at 10.45am.
The fares are:
Members: £13.00, OAP's £12.00, U16's £11.00
Non-Members £15.00, OAP's £14.00, U16's £13.00
To book a place on the coach, please phone Harry Bacon (01302 854626), Len South (01302 817347) or Paul Mayfield (01427 880154). The Supporters Club have asked everyone to book as possible so that they can book enough coaches.

October 16, 2009

Match officials for Barnsley clash

The match officials for tomorrow's home game against Barnsley have been confirmed as:
Referee: Graham Salisbury (Lancashire)
Assistant Referees: Steve Cook (Derbyshire) & Ken Haycock (West Yorkshire)
Fourth Official: Dave Naylor (Nottinghamshire)