'It's the right thing to do' - Doncaster Rovers CEO talks Harrogate Town's temporary stay at the Keepmoat

Doncaster Rovers will receive a financial boost from allowing League Two newcomers Harrogate Town to play their first few matches of the season at the Keepmoat Stadium.
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Harrogate - who beat Notts County in the National League play-off final earlier this month - are currently having the artificial playing surface removed from their Wetherby Road home to bring them in line with EFL regulations.

With the process of laying a new natural pitch not set to be completed until mid-October, the club were forced to find alternative accommodation from the September 5 season start date, with Rovers offering to help out.

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As well as altruistic intentions, the agreement will see the timely boosting of coffers with revenue streams significantly impacted due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Keepmoat StadiumKeepmoat Stadium
Keepmoat Stadium

“We’re doing it because we feel it’s the right thing to do but it also it supports and works with our business model,” Rovers chief executive Gavin Baldwin told the Free Press.

“It’s for the right reasons, supporting Club Doncaster and Harrogate.

“We don’t know how many games it will be at the moment but we’re assured they are trying to get their ground ready as soon as possible.

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“For all the right reasons, they’re going to want to get their ground ready to play at home and in front of their own fans.

“But it helps Club Doncaster as well.”

It is understood Harrogate could play four league matches at the Keepmoat but there is potential for up to five other games dependent on cup draws and progress.

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