Darren Moore explains 'tough' team selection for Doncaster Rovers' draw with MK Dons

Darren Moore admits it was difficult to select which players would feature for Doncaster Rovers in their opening League One fixture against MK Dons.
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But he says there will be plenty more tough choices to come as the season wears on.

Moore opted to drop James Coppinger and Fejiri Okenabirhie from his starting lineup in order to hand debuts to new loan signings Rayhaan Tullouch and Tyreece John-Jules, who arrived from West Bromwich Albion and Arsenal respectively earlier in the week.

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And he says he felt the energy of the two youngsters would be an important factor in the game.

Tyreece John-Jules on his debut against MK DonsTyreece John-Jules on his debut against MK Dons
Tyreece John-Jules on his debut against MK Dons

“It was difficult,” Moore said of his selection dilemma.

“With Cameron John, James Coppinger, Fejiri Okenabirhie - they played in midweek and they’ve been part of the planning and preparation through pre-season so it was difficult.

“But the reason was, I just felt it was the right type of game for the two boys to come in there.

“I felt they gave us the right type of out because we know MK Dons use the ball really well.

Darren MooreDarren Moore
Darren Moore
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“When we got it back, we needed an out to cause them problems and I thought both of them did that and put them on the back foot.

“It was a difficult decision.

“But this season, because of the way the games are, there will be decisions made through the course, with picking players that I feel are right for the games.

“It will almost be like horses for courses.”

Tulloch played a major role in Rovers taking the lead against the run of play, as he created the chance which Madger Gomes finished superbly.

But Baily Cargill scored a late equaliser - something Moore felt the visitors deserved.

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"Because it was such a late goal in a tightly contested football match, you're going to be disappointed.

"But I quite enjoyed the game. I felt it was a great game and, not to rub salt in the wounds of the fans, they would have loved it had they been in here today.

"Looking on the balance of the game, I think a point was fair for both teams."

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