Make it count! Doncaster Rovers urged to convert possession into goals against ruthless Gillingham

It appears likely that Rovers will have the majority of the possession with Gills happy to let the opposition have the ball.

In their last five league fixtures, Steve Evans’ side have had an average of 33.4 per cent possession.

But they have also shown a ruthless streak to win four and draw one of those matches, conceding only two goals in the process.

Rovers came through a similar test at Northampton Town last weekend, with possession skewed even further in their favour after the hosts went down to ten men.

And boss Darren Moore says his side will need to show a clinical edge if they are to overcome ruthless Gillingham.

“We kind of said that last week in terms of the possession stats,” Moore said.

“It clearly says that you can have all the possession stats you want but you have to convert them into chances.

“Gillingham on the other hand might not have the possession stats but they have converted their chances into goals.

“There’s not a right way or a wrong way. It’s two teams that have two contrasting styles that will go head to head.

“It’s one that is possession based and one that is not so much but both have been showing good signs and good form to get good results lately.

“We know it’s going to be a difficult game but it’s one we look forward to contesting on Saturday.”

Moore says Rovers cannot allow their performance levels to drop against one of the division’s form sides over the last few weeks.

“We know that in their team there are some players coming on that are clinical at the top end of the pitch, players through the midfield and defence that have shown they can handle this level over numerous years,” he said.

“We know we’re coming up against a team that is bang in form and it’s going to be a difficult game.

“We’re going to have to be at a top, top level to come away with anything.”

*

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. Nancy Fielder, editor.