Doncaster Rovers: Dickov hails ‘outstanding’ Jones

DONCASTER ROVERS manager Paul Dickov hailed the ‘outstanding’ contribution of match-winner Rob Jones, with the veteran defender marking his return in the best possible way at Leyton Orient.
Paul DickovPaul Dickov
Paul Dickov

Jones, making his first Rovers appearance in seven months after an injury-plagued past two seasons due to a career-threatening neck injury, netted the only goal of the game as Rovers triumphed in east London.

It was the 35-year-old’s first appearance since the 3-0 loss at Bristol City on September 13, with the goal his first since netting for Rovers in the 3-1 defeat to Blackpool on the opening day of the 2013-14 campaign.

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A 56th-minute goal from Jones, whose playing deal expires this summer, was enough to give Rovers’ their first win in four matches.

It leaves them in 12th spot with 57 points and four games to go, ten points behind the side occupying the final League One play-off spot in Chesterfield.

The victory against the O’s was Rovers’ ninth on the road this term, with their away haul of 34 points so far this season 11 higher than their home total in 2014-15, which stands at just 23 with two games to go at the Keepmoat against Fleetwood and local rivals Scunthorpe.

On the impact of Jones, Dickov said: “Rob was absolutely outstanding.

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“I’m buzzing for him, especially for him to get his goal. It’s great to have him back.

“I said to the players afterwards that was I really pleased, that was an all-round performance.

“We created some good chances and could have probably scored more, but it was important to win.”