Doncaster Rovers: 'That was the reaction I wanted' declares Ferguson after win at Bury

Ben Whiteman scored with a beautifully composed finish after Rovers had piled the pressure on the Shakers, who had Eoghan O'Connell sent off just before half time.

And after the disappointment of the capitulation against Walsall the previous week, Ferguson was delighted to see his side grind out a win.

"It was an important victory," Ferguson said.

"It was important we got a reaction from last week.

"It's been a long week. It certainly felt like a long week.

"Everyone got the reaction from the players and it was a thoroughly deserved victory.

"We had to dig it out the longer the game went on.

"I spoke to them at half time about not getting frustration. We'd get the chances, but it might be the last minute.

"Whiteman has produced a real bit of quality. A fantastic finish."

Rovers piled on the pressure in the second half but it did not appear set to be their day as chances went begging.

But Whiteman popped up 12 minutes from time with a fine finish to secure the win.

"Against ten men it can be difficult and the longer it went, their fans started getting up a little bit," Ferguson said.

"It's not easy but we just needed a bit of quality and Ben has produced it.

"We should have had more. Andy Williams himself should have got a couple, but maybe he is a bit rusty.

"It was thoroughly deserved.

"I was pleased first half. We started with real intent and Copps nearly scored early doors.

"The front three pressed really high up the pitch and I was generally quite pleased. It was just one or two decision in the final third that let us down.

"It's a really good reaction from the players after last week.

"We needed it. We got a clean sheet and it's a good win."