Shock on the cards as Doncaster look to end positively

The South Yorkshire club are unable to progress into the Championship play-off semi-finals whatever the outcome of their game at title favourites Bristol.

But Davey does not believe that is reason for a poor performance and hopes to complete their campaign with the prized scalp of a high-profile side intent on promotion.

“I’ve been really proud of all the lads this season,” he said.

“It’s been tough in patches but there have been some real highs and it would be great to sign off with a win over the best team in the league.

“We have a freedom to play rugby and there is no pressure on us but Bristol are a very strong side and will be pushing for a last victory ahead of their semi-final.”

Davey’s only change sees departing hooker Jack Yeandle replace Steve Boden in the starting line-up while the return of utility-back Toby Berridge gives him a fresh option on the bench.

Doncaster’s top points scorer Dougie Flockhart, meanwhile, has signed a new deal which sees the Scottish winger stay at Castle Park next season but also take on the head of strength and conditioning position in a full-time capacity.

Rotherham Titans are in a similar position to their South Yorkshire rivals when they travel to Bedford this afternoon, unable to make the last four but with coach Andre Bester insisting he will be demanding an 80-minute performance.

“People may assume we don’t have anything to play for but they’d be wrong,” he said.

“We have our passion and we have our pride. It’s not about money, it’s not about results, it’s about passion and pride.

“That’s the most important thing in your life and if you lose that, then you have nothing. They lost by a point at Cornish Pirates last time out.

“They’ll be smarting from that so we know we’ll be in for a challenging afternoon.”

Titans make just one change to the side that lost at Leeds, prop Jamie Kilbane replacing the injured Shane Cahill. Centre Pale Nonu and fly-half Garry Law have agreed terms which will see them both remain at Clifton Lane for the 2012-13 season.