Doncaster Rovers will host Stockport County in the EFL Trophy semi-finals on Tuesday evening. This match is significant as both teams strive for a chance to compete at Wembley Stadium. Doncaster currently occupies the 18th position in the League One table, while Stockport sits at fifth.
Match Preview
Doncaster Rovers enter this match with some confidence after winning three consecutive games across two competitions. However, their recent performance saw them suffer a heavy 4-0 loss against Cardiff City, who are the League One leaders. Despite Cardiff’s missing key strikers, Doncaster couldn’t capitalize on the opportunity.
Currently, Doncaster is only three points above the relegation zone, despite having a game in hand over some lower-placed teams. Their home record is concerning, with just 22 points from 16 matches at the Eco-Power Stadium. In the EFL Trophy, however, they have fared better, scoring 11 goals in previous matches against Bradford City, Chesterfield, and Fleetwood Town. They reached the semi-finals after a notable away victory against Huddersfield Town in the quarter-finals.
Stockport County’s Road to the Semi-Finals
Stockport County has advanced to this stage through two penalty shootouts, showcasing resilience in high-pressure situations. In the last round, they secured a commanding 4-0 victory against Port Vale. Nevertheless, their recent form in League One has raised concerns; Stockport has lost three of their last four matches, all of which were away games against Bradford City, Burton Albion, and Stevenage. This recent slump has left them 15 points behind the top two teams in the league with only 12 matches remaining.
Stockport defeated Doncaster 2-0 in their last encounter on December 9, held at the Eco-Power Stadium.
Team News
For Doncaster, the squad will face a defensive adjustment as Neill Byrne is cup-tied after playing for Bradford City. Matthew Pearson is expected to step in as a replacement, while Owen Bailey could also shift from midfield to defense. Doncaster may also recall George Broadbent and Ben Close in midfield.
On Stockport’s side, goalkeeper Corey Addai aims to retain his starting position after replacing Ben Hinchliffe last weekend. Other potential players include Ben Osborn and Malik Mothersille, but manager David Challinor might opt to field the same team as last Saturday’s match against Stevenage. January signing Adama Sidibeh has been in remarkable form, scoring four goals in his last five matches.
Projected Lineups
Doncaster Rovers
- Lo-Tutala
- Sterry
- Pearson
- McGrath
- Senior
- Gotts
- Molyneux
- Bailey
- Clifton
- Middleton
- Hanlan
Stockport County
- Addai
- Dacres-Cogley
- Hills
- Pye
- Edun
- Bailey
- Norwood
- Diamond
- Wootton
- Stokes
- Sidibeh
The match is expected to be highly competitive, as both teams aim to secure a place in the final. Based on recent performances, it suggests a tight clash, but Stockport’s overall quality may give them the edge.
