Doncaster Rovers defy fatigue to record fine win at Plymouth Argyle

Manager Darren Ferguson could not hide his delight as Rovers swept aside hosts Plymouth Arygle with goals from Andy Butler, John Marquis and Alfie May.

Ferguson commented: “A clean sheet, three goals, could have had more. – we managed the game very well.

“We were strong mentally because after Wednesday night [a 1-0 Carabao Cup defeat away to Arsenal] there was quite a few tired legs out there.

““I felt the substitutions we made gave us some fresh legs.

“I’m delighted. It’s a big, big win for us.”

Rovers had impressed in their League Cup exit at Arsenal and Ferguson was pleased to see his side deliver as they returned to league action.

His side had stayed down in London following their midwek extertions, and he commented: “It makes the journey a little bit easier because it’s going to be a long one.

“We’ve been away four days now; it’s been a long week.

“We spoke about getting back to the bread and butter of doing our jobs in the league.

“Wednesday was a bonus, but [Plymouth] was the big one and we’ve got a fantastic result.”

Ferguson had to withdraw Matty Blair early in the second half because of fatigue.

“He was shattered,” said Rovers’ manager.

“He told me he had nothing left so fair play to him for being honest.”

Plymouth: McCormick, Miller (Ainsworth 67), Edwards, Bradley, Sawyer, Sarcevic, Songo’o (Fox 46), Ness (Wylde 67), Fletcher, Ciftci, Lameiras. Unused substitutes: Blissett, Grant, Sokolik, Letheren.

Doncaster Rovers: Lawlor, Wright, Butler, Mason, Blair (Toffolo 55), Houghton, Coppinger (Mandeville 81), Whiteman (Kongolo 55), Rowe, May, Marquis. Unused substitutes: Alcock, Williams, Marosi, Garrett.

Referee: N Kinseley (Essex).