Doncaster Rovers kicked off their 2024/25 League Two season in spectacular fashion, securing a 4-1 victory against Accrington Stanley at the Eco-Power Stadium. A powerful performance saw Rovers dominate much of the match, with a brace from Luke Molyneux, a stunning strike from new signing Jordan Gibson, and a late goal from club legend Billy Sharp.
The match, while scrappy at times, showcased Rovers’ ability to control possession and break down their opponents. Despite a limited number of clear-cut chances, they maintained the upper hand throughout most of the game.
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First-half dominance
Rovers took some time to find their rhythm in the opening stages, but once settled, they exerted pressure on Accrington Stanley. While chances were few and far between, they maintained the lion’s share of possession, often finding themselves camped in the opposing half. A crucial moment came when Gibson, one of the standout players, nearly opened the scoring with a curling effort that struck the upright.
As the first half drew to a close, Jamie Sterry provided the assist that led to the opening goal. Bringing the ball down with precision, Sterry passed to Molyneux, who calmly slotted the ball into the net from 12 yards out, giving Rovers a deserved lead just before the break.
Second-half action and response
The second half began with a shock for Rovers as Tyler Walton headed home to bring Accrington Stanley level just two minutes after the restart. Connor O’Brien delivered a pinpoint cross, and Walton rose highest to find the back of the net, making it 1-1.
However, Rovers quickly regained their composure and reasserted their dominance. Molyneux came close to scoring his second with a deft chip over the goalkeeper that narrowly missed the target. His persistence paid off on 62 minutes when he struck a thunderous shot from 30 yards into the top corner, restoring Rovers’ lead.
Sealing the victory
Rovers extended their lead just six minutes later with another stunning goal. Gibson, who had been a constant threat, took matters into his own hands, surging forward before curling a beautiful shot into the top corner from 20 yards out. This goal effectively put the game beyond Accrington Stanley’s reach.
Manager Grant McCann made a series of substitutions, including the introduction of Billy Sharp, who made his return to the club after a decade. Sharp made an immediate impact and was on hand to score Rovers’ fourth goal of the match. Harry Clifton‘s shot was blocked, but the ball fell kindly to Sharp, who hooked it into the net from close range, adding the final touch to a comprehensive victory.
Squad depth on display
The match highlighted Rovers’ depth, with several new signings making their mark, including goalkeeper Ted Sharman-Lowe and Gibson, who both had full debuts. The late introductions of Ephraim Yeboah and Joe Sbarra also demonstrated the strength and versatility within McCann’s squad, a promising sign for the challenges ahead this season.
This commanding win gives Rovers a perfect start to their campaign, and with the likes of Molyneux, Gibson, and Sharp finding form early, fans have plenty to be optimistic about as they look forward to the coming fixtures.
Doncaster Rovers Team: Sharman-Lowe, Sterry, Anderson, Wood, Maxwell (Nixon 86), Bailey, Broadbent (Clifton 75), Hurst (Sbarra 61), Molyneux, Ironside (Sharp 75), Gibson (Yeboah 75). Subs not used: Lawlor, Olowu.
