Midweek Takeaway: Progress for Doncaster Rovers but manner of AFC Wimbledon draw made it more of a shuffle than a stride

AFC Wimbledon were afforded the opportunity to mark the grand opening of the new Plough Lane home by scoring the first goal. That should have been the end of Rovers’ generosity.

And for long periods, it looked as though it would be.

From the first whistle, Darren Moore’s side dominated possession, controlled the tempo of play and camped themselves deep in opposition territory.

Wimbledon put plenty of men between Rovers and the goal, dropping their three man midfield almost alongside their five man defence to create a big blue wall.

In such circumstances previously this season Rovers have been unable to find the answers when posed such a challenge by the opposition.

But with a performance of poise, control and patience, they simply kept the ball and waited for opportunities to open up.

Had they secured the three points, it would have been a tremendous positive and perhaps a sign that they had turned a corner when it comes to such games.

But instead of reflecting on an area where they have triumphed, there will again be critique of aspects where they came up short - namely defensive frailty and a lack of ruthlessness in the final third.

James Coppinger’s injury time strike rescued a point in a game which Rovers dominated sufficiently to take all three without question.

What they lacked was real presence in the final third, the ability to make the ball stick in advanced positions and the killer touch to create opportunities.

It meant when they were twice carved open down their right side, with the ball then travelling to the back post for Joe Pigott to finish on both occasions, they were chasing a game they had on the reins.

Matt Smith came up with the goods to equalise very quickly after Pigott netted the first goal at the new Plough Lane.

And Rovers managed to up the tempo in the second half to really push the resilient hosts.

Rarely is a late leveller greeted with joy that quickly gives way to frustration that it only secured a single point.

It was a step forward for Rovers, but more of a shuffle than the stride it should have been.

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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. Nancy Fielder, editor.