This time last year Blackpool, fresh from the Wembley playoff success, had started the season pretty well – with noticable wins against Leicester City and Hull City amongst others. 12 months on, and this years’ playoff victors are finding the Championship an uphill struggle – picking just seven points from their opening ten games, three of which came on the opening day.
But Rovers have a decent side, very capable keeping the ball for long periods with a midfield to rival many in the division. What they lack is a goalscorer – sound familiar? Donny have scored just five goals in the league so far, with three of those coming from the midfield pairing of Brian Stock and Richie Wellens.
Vital Quotes:
Sean O’Driscoll:
‘Simon Grayson has been where we are last season and he managed to keep them in the division and I am really pleased for them and we can take something from them.
‘They’ll understand the pressure stop the run we are in, but we you can’t heap more pressure than there is all already not matter what you read and what people say. We are under pressure.
‘We’ve got to be realistic – we have shipped 12 goals and only scored one in the last three games and when you look at it are we going to win a game 4-3 or 1-0? I think it is going to be easier to win 1-0 and so we have worked hard on all of our organisational skills.’
Doncaster Rovers Team News:
Richie Wellens misses out with a groin injury for all you boo boys.
Brian Stock could also be missing as well for the game, which would give The Seasiders an early advantage with both big name players sidelined.
Player to watch: Lewis Guy
The tall striker has notched a massive two goals so far this season. Normally the man to watch would be Wellens, but unfortunately he can’t make it!
Blackpool Team News:
There are no fresh injury worries for Simon Grayson.
Daniel Nardiello is very close to a first team return, and Stephen McPhee may again fill the bench.
Player to watch: Alan Gow
The on loan Rangers midfielder looks set for a place on the bench again, but could be unfluential coming off the bench after his exploits a fortnight ago.
Match Facts & Stats
Last game between the sides was in 2006.
Shaun Barker and Scott Vernon (2) scored the goals to beat a good Donny side 3-1.
Ref Watch:
Darren Drysdale
22 yellows
2 reds
Last ‘Pool game: lost 2-0 to Tranmere.
Match Prediction:
Doncaster 0 – 1 Blackpool
Next Fixtures:
21st October: Blackpool v Derby County.
