Doncaster Rovers: Danny Schofield makes honest admission as he sends message to fans

Schofield’s side fell to their second straight defeat on Friday when they went down 2-0 at home to Walsall following another uninspiring display, which saw them manage just one effort on target.

The result means Schofield, who has brought with him a possession-based approach, has been beaten four times in his first seven games in charge.

A smattering of boos could be heard at the full-time whistle. There were also some disgruntled shouts, albeit isolated ones, from the stands in the second period.

Schofield acknowledged the high expectations for Doncaster in League Two this term and said: "The support of the fans is essential to us and what we are trying to do.

"I'm never going to come in and turn things around and hit the ground running, it's been up and down, as football is.”

A strong start to the season saw Rovers win 14 points in their opening six matches and avoid defeat in the league.

But they have only managed to take 14 points from the 14 matches since beating Northampton Town 1-0 to move up to third in the early season table.

Schofield said: "We need to be more consistent with our performances and more clinical in certain areas, but the fans are paramount.

"The support in the Grimsby game stands out massively for me when there was a real energy pushing the players on.”

Rovers currently sit thirteenth in League Two after 20 games, five points off the final play off spot as the midway point of the season approaches.

There are still 78 points up for grabs, however, and Schofield is likely to dip into the transfer market in January as he attempts to further stamp his mark on the team.

Hexthorpe-born Schofield, who still lives in Doncaster, was able to relate to fans’ frustrations.

He said: "It's tough being a supporter. I'm a football fan and when a team's not winning games it's very difficult.

"We will continue working and trying to get the supporters to really drive us forward."

Doncaster are back in action on Saturday when they travel to Newport County.

The Exiles have won their last two matches under recently appointed manager Graham Coughlan.