Story of the game as Doncaster Rovers exit Carabao Cup at Stoke City

Tommy Rowe replaces Ben Close for Rovers

Tommy Rowe has been called back to the dressing room from the half time subs warm-up. Could we be seeing him on for the second half?

Given all the circumstances facing Rovers heading into the game, and the fact they lost Cameron John early on, that was not bad at all.

The very inexperienced defence have looked solid and dealt with what has been thrown at them by a dangerous Stoke attack.

And as the half has worn on, they have enjoyed more of the ball in the opposition half.

It’s a little harsh that they find themselves behind at the break. Given the struggles in the final third this season, it has left them with a mountain to climb in this game.

But in terms of what it was hoped that could be seen in this contest, it’s not been too dispiriting.

Rovers trail 1-0 at the break

THREE minutes

Rovers push well for an immediate response and Charlie Seaman forces a good save from Adam Davies.

They showed good persistence to keep the attack alive until it fell to Seaman, who turned and powered an effort on goal with his left foot.

Tom Ince gives Stoke the lead from close range.

Morgan Fox was afforded far too much time and space to charge through the middle before firing a low shot from 20 yards. With the shot curling away from Louis Jones, who could not get a strong hand to it, allowing it to fall to Ince to slide in.

It is harsh on Rovers given their efforts in the early stages.

Rovers haven’t shown much threat themselves so far but they have dealt well with the pressure from the hosts.

Taking into account the disruption heading into the game and the fact they’ve been forced into an early change, it’s been a pretty pleasing performance.

Ed Williams, Doncaster Rovers

Cameron John is forced off with a back injury and is replaced by Charlie Seaman.

Branden Horton has gone into the back three with Seaman at right wing back and Ed Williams at left wing back.