Justified changes, baffling decisions and taking opportunities plus other major talking points from Doncaster Rovers' win over Wycombe Wanderers

Doncaster Rovers roared back to winning ways with a comfortable win over Wycombe Wanderers at the Keepmoat.
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Strikes from Niall Ennis and Kieran Sadlier plus an own goal helped Rovers recover from a difficult start to run out 3-1 winners.

Here we look at some of the big talking points from the game.

PATIENCE IS A VIRTUE

Devante Cole battles against Wycombe WanderersDevante Cole battles against Wycombe Wanderers
Devante Cole battles against Wycombe Wanderers
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For the opening half hour of the game, no one would have predicted that Rovers would finish the game such comfortable winners. Wycombe did a real number on them in that opening period, showing very close attention defensively and transitioning to attack very quickly. Rovers had no time on the ball and very little space in which to operate. It was always going to take a patient approach to get them into the game.

To their immense credit, they produced just that once they managed to get some sustained possession. The focus was on keeping the ball and biding time to find space, which they began to do much more regularly. Rather than rush play to try to force things, they built attacks steadily - which is exactly what was needed. It ensured that when they grabbed their timely goal on the stroke of half time, they were already in the ascendency.

A ROCK - BUT A HARD PLACE FOR EVERYONE ELSE

It was not a good day for referee David Rock, who was far too quick to get his cards out and missed several very obvious calls. But then came the most blatant penalty you could ever wish to see when Devante Cole was tripped as he broke into the box. Being kind to Rock, the incident coming very late in the game and with Rovers already 3-1 up probably eased the pressure on the decision. Being kind.

TAKING HIS CHANCE

Plenty have called for Danny Amos to get the nod at left back in Reece James’ absence and they got their wish. Amos stepped up superbly with a highly composed defensive performance while also showcasing the superb delivery he has on previous outings. It was a timely reminder of the quality the youngster possesses, along with another boost for a development group in transition.

THANKLESS TASK

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Devante Cole was always going to be in for a tough afternoon as he battled in a lone striker role against a physical Wycombe back line. But he approached the task exceptionally well, fighting hard to get on the ball, hold it up and also win flick ons. It helped give Rovers some real presence in attacking areas in the first half and kept them on the front foot in the second. His hunt for a first goal for Rovers continues but he showed again what he can offer to the side.

TINKERMAN WITH A PLAN

Darren Moore has come in for criticism for the amount of changes he makes to his side. But again, with a positive performance and result, he showed the depth of thought behind his selection. On this occasion, he undoubtedly got it right as he switched to a 4-1-4-1 and got plenty of legs into midfield with Jacob Ramsey and Madger Gomes. Reintroducing Gomes and Kieran Sadlier, along with Danny Amos, brought a trio of changes that made a real difference once Rovers settled into the game.

CONFIDENCE BUILDER

After back-to-back defeats and some pretty significant blows, Rovers needed a pick-me-up. A comfortable win over a promotion chasing side will have done just that, particularly with the manner of the performance which saw them ride through a tough opening period and grow into the game. Rovers should take plenty of confidence from this game to set them up for the coming weeks. If they are to keep their play-off hopes alive, they are going to need all the confidence they can get.

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