Doncaster Rovers 3 Peterborough United 1

Last updated : 21 October 2009 By Footymad Previewer
Rovers really had the game sewn up with two goals in the first 20 minutes.

But United never gave up and ensured the match was always in the balance after pulling one back until Doncaster added a third five minutes from time.

The Posh contributed to an entertaining game with their attractive and positive style of play but they were far too open at times and left gaps at the back.

Craig Mackail-Smith forced home keeper Neil Sullivan to make a fine save in the fourth minute after Martin Woods had lost the ball in midfield.

It was the visitors who looked dangerous early on but Rovers rocked them when they snatched the lead in the 17th minute.

A shot from Dean Shiels was spilled by keeper Joe Lewis and on-loan striker Billy Sharp was in the right spot to take advantage and slam home the rebound.

United found themselves two down four minutes later when Shiels rattled the ball home in fine style from just inside the box, after a rapid counter-attack involving Sharp and James Coppinger.

Coppinger dribbled through himself in the 29th minute before setting up Simon Gillett who chipped the ball just wide of the mark.

But Peterborough were always looking to push forward themselves and they pulled them back in superb style, when Aaron McLean headed home superbly after Tommy Rowe had provided an excellent cross from the left in the 32nd minute.

Play switched from end to end in the second half with Doncaster never really looking safe although they had the better chances to score again.

Shiels and James Hayter both had goalbound efforrts blocked in the 57th minute following a defensive error and then Shiels hit a swerving shot just wide.

Gillett had an effort saved after substitute John Oster had created the opening before Rovers wrapped up the points in the 85th minute.

Woods sent over a corner on the left and big defender Jason Shackell came thundering in to head home at the near post.