Darren Ferguson so proud as another big test looms for Doncaster Rovers

Blackpool secured their first league win since Boxing Day with a 4-1 triumph at the third-placed Cumbrians.

Goals from former Carlisle player Brad Potts and on-loan midfielder Jordan Flores gave the visitors a comfortable lead but, after Jabo Ibehre pulled a goal back for the hosts, Sanmi Odelusi and Nathan Delfouneso made sure of a Blackpool win.

Plymouth closed the gap on Rovers, who drew 0-0 with bottom club Newport on Friday night, with a 3-0 victory over rivals Exeter.

First-half goals from Matthew Kennedy and Ryan Taylor and a stoppage-time penalty from Jake Jervis were enough for Plymouth, who have a game in hand.

Rovers’ manager Darren Ferguson saluted his side’s battling qualities on a terrible pitch at Rodney Parade.

He switched to a more direct style and also saw Doncaster match the physicality of the hosts. “I couldn’t have asked for more from my players,” he said.

“I don’t think anyone could doubt the effort and application they put in.

“We showed, and it was no surprise to me, a real toughness. It’s another point and it’s important at this part of the season to keep picking up points.

“Obviously we wanted to win the game. It’s only the second time this season we’ve not scored, but I’m delighted with my players.

“Any team that comes to Newport will be in for a tough game,” continued Ferguson, who said of the pitch: “It wasn’t actually as bad as some of the video work we’d done suggested, but it’s clearly a horrendous pitch.”

Ferguson confirmed that Mathieu Baudry missed the game after picking up a knock in training last Wednesday while James Coppinger was rested as he attempts to overcome a lengthy heel problem.