'I don't think any player can say honestly they put a shift in' - Andy Butler on Doncaster Rovers' 'embarrassing' defeat to Wigan Athletic

Andy Butler has questioned the desire of his Doncaster Rovers players for the first time after what he labelled as an embarrassing performance in defeat to Wigan Athletic.
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Rovers slumped to a 4-1 defeat to a side that started the day second bottom in League One, having failed to win in their previous five matches or score in their last three.

It was another incredibly lacklustre performance from Rovers, who failed to match the energy and endeavour of their visitors, who were fully deserving of their triumph.

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"Being brutally honest, from the first minute it was embarrassing," Butler said.

Andy Butler during Doncaster Rovers' defeat to Wigan Athletic. Picture: Howard Roe/AHPIXAndy Butler during Doncaster Rovers' defeat to Wigan Athletic. Picture: Howard Roe/AHPIX
Andy Butler during Doncaster Rovers' defeat to Wigan Athletic. Picture: Howard Roe/AHPIX

"That is probably being kind.

"I don't often question players' attitudes and desires, but today I will. I think they all have to look at themselves individually and collectively.

"Putting it simply, Wigan wanted it more than us.

"When you go out onto the pitch with Doncaster Rovers colours and the badge, you represent yourself, your family and friends, the club and the fans. I don't think any players can go home tonight and say honestly that they put a shift in.

"Maybe it is time that players do have a good look at themselves and question whether they have done all they can. I don't think any can really say that.”

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Butler was furious to see his side 3-0 down with little more than half an hour on the clock after goals from Joe Dodoo, Thelo Aasgaard and Viv Solomon-Otabor.

Taylor Richards pulled a goal back for Rovers in first half stoppage time before a Will Keane strike sealed the win for Wigan.

"There was naivety in the team as we gave ourselves a mountain to climb again,” he said. “It's not good enough.

“It was one ball into the box that should be easily defendable and it turns into a goal for them.

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“It’s schoolboy stuff. No matter what you put on for them tactics wise or the information you give them to go out onto the pitch, if they can’t defend a poor ball into the box then you’re going to give yourself a lot to do in the game.

“We got the goal back but it doesn’t mask the fact that we were very poor.”

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In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Liam Hoden, editor.