In a confident display at the Peninsula Stadium, Doncaster Rovers secured their spot in the second round of the Carabao Cup with a 2-0 victory over Salford City. Goals from Billy Sharp and Luke Molyneux highlighted a strong performance from a much-altered Rovers lineup, showcasing the squad’s depth under manager Grant McCann.
Despite heavy rain in Greater Manchester, which made conditions challenging, Rovers adapted well and dominated the match, keeping Salford’s threats at bay and consistently creating opportunities of their own.
A strong start despite the weather
The evening saw McCann make significant changes, fielding an entirely different outfield from their opening day win against Accrington Stanley. This included full debuts for Harry Clifton, Joe Sbarra, and Ephraim Yeboah, with recent loan signing Patrick Kelly also making his first appearance.
The match began cautiously, with both teams adjusting to the slippery conditions. However, it was Doncaster who found their rhythm first. Sbarra nearly opened the scoring early on, with only a last-ditch block from Salford captain Curtis Tilt preventing his effort from finding the net.
Shortly after, Clifton thought he had broken the deadlock when his deflected shot looped over Salford goalkeeper Matt Young, only to hit the post.
Sharp’s strike puts Rovers ahead
Doncaster’s pressure paid off in the 21st minute. A crucial midfield tackle by Zain Westbrooke sent Billy Sharp racing toward goal. The experienced forward cut inside his corner, giving Rovers a well-deserved lead. This goal marked a significant moment in the match, with Doncaster firmly in control from that point onward.
Resolute defence and an important block
Salford’s primary threat during the game came from set pieces, and they came close to equalising just six minutes after Sharp’s goal. Marcus Dackers connected with a corner, directing a powerful header toward goal, but young loanee Ephraim Yeboah was on hand to make a spectacular goal-line clearance, preserving Rovers’ advantage.
As the first half drew to a close, Salford managed a few more attempts on goal, notably through Ben Woodburn. However, Ted Sharman-Lowe in the Doncaster goal was equal to the challenge, making an impressive save from Woodburn’s angled free-kick and ensuring his side went into the break with their lead intact.
Second-half dominance and a late clincher
Salford adopted a more direct approach after the interval, but Doncaster’s defence, marshalled effectively by Joseph Olowu and Tom Nixon, remained resolute. Rovers were content to absorb pressure and hit on the counter, with Clifton and Yeboah combining well on several occasions, though they were unable to find the finishing touch.
As the game wore on, Doncaster continued to threaten on the break. Substitute Jordan Gibson made an instant impact, cutting in from the left and testing Young with a low drive. Luke Molyneux also came close, narrowly missing the target with a curling effort from the edge of the box.
In the final minutes, Salford pushed for an equaliser, but their efforts were thwarted by Rovers’ disciplined defending. Jack Senior made a crucial block inside the box to deny Cole Stockton what appeared to be a certain goal, illustrating the determination within the Doncaster ranks to maintain their clean sheet.
With the match deep into stoppage time, Doncaster sealed the win. A precise ball over the top found Molyneux, who showed great composure to slot the ball under the advancing Young, doubling Rovers’ lead and confirming their place in the next round.
Team performance and tactical mastery
McCann’s decision to rotate his squad significantly paid dividends, with several players impressing on their debuts. The fluidity of Rovers’ play and their ability to adapt to adverse conditions demonstrated the depth and flexibility of the squad. Players like Sharp and Molyneux not only delivered goals but also led by example, while the defence, bolstered by Sharman-Lowe’s assured presence in goal, held firm throughout the contest.
Coming up
This victory sets the tone for Doncaster Rovers as they progress in the Carabao Cup, showcasing their potential to compete on multiple fronts this season. With key players getting valuable minutes and new signings integrating well into the team, McCann will be optimistic about the challenges ahead.
The next round promises to be another test for this evolving side, but with the confidence gained from this performance, Rovers will undoubtedly approach it with the belief that they can continue their cup journey.
Doncaster Rovers squad details
- Starting XI: Sharman-Lowe, Nixon, Olowu, McGrath, Senior, Kelly (Broadbent 70), Westbrooke (Bailey 61), Yeboah (Molyneux 71), Clifton, Sbarra (Gibson 71), Sharp (Ironside 77).
- Substitutes Not Used: Oram, Anderson, Sterry, Hurst.
This win is a testament to the tactical acumen of Grant McCann and the growing confidence within the Doncaster Rovers camp as they look forward to their upcoming fixtures.
