Progression and rejuvenation - what Darren Moore wants from Doncaster Rovers' EFL Trophy clash with Oldham Athletic

But arguably more important for the Rovers boss is the opportunity for his side to shake off the frustration of their first league defeat as soon as possible.

Rovers lost 1-0 at Wigan Athletic on Saturday but will not have the opportunity to get back on winning terms in League One until October 17 after postponing their scheduled clash with Shrewsbury Town due to international call-ups.

So Moore is keen for his players to brush off the disappointment of losing when they visit Harry Kewell’s Oldham side.

Rovers took the bonus point in winning their penalty shootout after drawing with Bradford City in the first group game, while Oldham beat Wolverhampton Wanderers U21s 4-0. A victory for either side tonight would put them in command for one of the two knockout places.

Moore said: “Without a doubt we want to do that.

“But the game it’s just great that we can get back and play again. When you have a game like the one on Saturday it leaves a bitter taste and you just want to get out and play again.

“We’ve got a cup match against a team that I think having looked at them are slowly and surely building a momentum in their patterns of play. The results haven’t been great for them but I can see patterns building in them.

“It's about what we do and we want to focus on our game and make sure we continue to improve and show where we’re at in the development of the group.”

Oldham picked up their first point in League Two this season on Saturday with a 3-3 draw against unbeaten Colchester United.

Moore said: “We look forward to another exciting game, a tough game.

“They got a good point on the road and Harry is slowly and surely building something. You can see a clear pattern to what they’re doing there.

“We know it’ll be another difficult game but we have to focus on our journey and keep looking to improve on what we’re about.”

*

Thank you to all who support local journalism with a print subscription.

The events of 2020 mean trusted, local journalism is more reliant than ever on your support.

We couldn't do it without you.

Please subscribe here https://www.localsubsplus.co.uk/ so we can keep campaigning on your behalf.

Stay safe.