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This week we catch up with Nigel Wroe of
YAURS for his insight on the Donny team
and the Roberts brothers
After a good consolidation season last time round what are
your realistic expectations for the coming season?
Last season we were still in with a shout of the play-offs
until our second last game against Bristol City. That game was a draw and
put paid to both teams play-off chances. This season we have spent big by L1
standards and the club are officially "Going4It!". So anything less than a
play-off place will be a disappointment.
How did pre season go?
Very poor. We never played any big teams and results were
mixed but our first game was away to Bristol City and to say they are
favourites for promotion, we matched them in every department.
How would you rate your performances in the four games played so far?
The latest result was a win away to your rivals Swansea. We
were suckered just before half-time and went in 1-0 down. But instead of the
usual tactic of lumping it forward, as we did at home last week to
Hartlepool, and in the same position, we stuck to our strengths and played
it along the ground. Getting a clincher 4 minutes from time to take all 3
points. We should have beaten MK Dons at home but a dodgy backpass let them
in to share the spoils. The win at Swansea, our first in four games, should
settle us down ahead of the Wrexham game.
What are your initial thoughts on the new signings and in particular
Steve Roberts?
Belle Vue is Hernia City at the moment. We were well chuffed
that Steven has joined his well regarded brother Neil, but he has a strain
which could be yet another hernia. We have had our right back and keeper
sidelined for lengthy periods with the same. When fit Steve Roberts is
expected to become a favourite.
How has Neil Roberts played since signing last season?
Neil has been an inspiration. A dogged, never-say-die
attitude has won the respect of the Belle Vue faithful. Not blessed with
height he still seems to win a lot in the air due to perfect timing and
positioning. He could do with a few more goals but he works his heart out
for his teammates.
What system do you play and have you noticed any changes from last
season?
Our manager Dave Penney is most comfortable playing 4-4-2,
and there will be no deviation from that. However, that said, the midfield
is likely to be switched from defensive to offensive after 60 minutes with a
couple of tactical substitutions. We have the players this season to do
that, so we will be simply better than last season.
Which player will be you main threat?
We hoped that Heffernan, signed from Bristol City in the
close-season, would be our main strike threat, but he has not set the world
alight as yet. He might even start on the bench. If so then watch out for
Lewis Guy, who will have earned a start for his match winner against
Swansea. He's been dazzling in the reserves and will likely partner Neil
Roberts up front.
What are Doncaster’s strengths?
We still have 5-6 first teamers who came up with us from the
Conference. Our keeper Andy Warrington is an agile shot stopper, but can
have a David James moment. Has improved in commanding his 6-yard box, but
not a lot! Main strengths I would say are our defence. Three of our back
four have played together for a year or two now, and we have signed Phil
McGuire from Aberdeen. Midfield can be solid or pacey depending on the mix
of Thornton, (ex-Sunderland), Green, Coppinger, McIndoe and Mulligan.
What are Doncaster’s weaknesses?
Rovers have been known to lapse into the long ball game out
of frustration of not being able to get a breakthrough, especially if we are
a goal down. We have created lots of chances in front of goal but have not
been able to capitalise, tending to try to walk the ball into the net.
Do you know much about the current Wrexham team?
Very little. We knew Steven Roberts of course because of the
family connection. And we know more about the Save the Racecourse Campaign.
The main thing is that the Roberts's will know Wrexham inside out and that
could be an advantage.
Finally, a score prediction?
I predicted first half behind then eventual victory against
the Swans, and that won me £330 for a tenner. I am inclined to think the
same against Wrexham, with Rovers running out eventual 1-3 winners.
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First Round
