Blackburn came to the Keepmoat knowing all they had to do for promotion was match Shrewsbury’s result. Doncaster meanwhile would move into the top half of the table, mathematically safe from relegation, if they were to pull off a miraculous victory.
Selling out the away end, the Lancashire side’s fans we’re in fine voice throughout the first half, but felt the agony of many wasted chances, with Adam Armstrong and Bradley Dack both having efforts saved on the line. Doncaster only really fashioned two chances before the break – both for Alfie Beestin – neither of which were taken. The first, a snapshot, saved comfortably by David Raya, the second, a header, saved low to his left.
There was a controversial start to the second half as John Marquis went clear through the Blackburn defence and scored, only for the referee to pull play back for a foul on Beestin in the build up.
So instead it was Charlie Mulgrew who broke the deadlock. A corner from the left found the unmarked defender’s head; queue the smoke bombs and the thunderous chorus of ‘Ee-i-ee-i-ee-i-oo…’
Doncaster had the ball in the net once again two minutes later, this time substitute Andy Williams, but as with the first time, the referee pulled back play for a foul on Andy Butler.
Five minutes were added on, but it wasn’t enough time for Doncaster to ruin Blackburn’s party as their fans encroached the pitch at full-time.
Credit to Blackburn and good luck back in the Championship.
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