Plymouth Argyle v Doncaster Rovers: '˜The first goal is massive' '“ Grant McCann

Doncaster Rovers boss Grant McCann admits the first goal could have a big say in their assignment at League One bottom side Plymouth Argyle tomorrow.
Grant McCannGrant McCann
Grant McCann

The Pilgrims are no strangers to slow starts and are without a victory from their opening nine league games.

In stark contrast fourth-placed Rovers make the long journey to Home Park unbeaten in six league games and having won three on the bounce.

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McCann knows full well the value of putting Argyle firmly on the back foot and taking advantage of any mental fragility in their ranks.

'I think the first goal is massive,' he said.

'When you're playing against a team that hasn't won so far in the league it becomes very important. 

'I've been in situations where you haven't won for a few games and you get a bit fragile.

'The first goal is going to be big.

'If it's against us I've got more than enough belief we can turn it around.

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'If it's for us then I've got more than enough belief that we can go and get more.

'That's the way we'll approach it.'

After successfully negotiating what turned out to be a tough test against lowly Bradford City last weekend, there is unlikely to be any complacency in the Rovers camp. 

'I've been asked about the group's motivation playing against the team bottom of the league and it would be no different if we were playing Sunderland,' said McCann.

'We've got to be on our guard against a Plymouth team that has threats.

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'They were in this situation last year and Derek Adams got them winning and they just missed out on the play-offs.

'We know if you win three or four games in this league it can propel you straight into the top half.'

Jermaine Anderson is set to replace Ben Whiteman who is serving a one-game suspension.  

Ali Crawford could be named on the bench after featuring in a practice match this week.

Former Rovers loanee Conor Grant could line up for injury-hit Plymouth, who have ten players currently sidelined.