Doncaster Rovers manager Sean O'Driscoll took the full squad of players to North East Counties team Rossington Main FC, much to the delight of the local village team and the members of the local community. The strength of the squad confirmed Sean's personal commitment to the importance of fostering and developing relationships throughout the wider community.

"At Bournemouth we were a very community-conscious club, and I want to continue that philosophy here at Doncaster. It's a 'win' situation for all parties; it helps to give our lads a good run-out early in our preparations, and it's great experience for the Rossington players being able to match themselves against professionals. The local inhabitants enjoy a good evening and I'm sure it's a great help financially to the local club for the rest of the season."

The Rovers' boss sent out a different squad for each half of the match, giving everybody an opportunity to benefit from some match practice, and was pleased with the fitness levels displayed by all players.

"Professional players look after themselves during the close-season. I don't believe that any player in the four divisions fails to keep up his fitness level in preparation for the new season. It's expected nowadays, and our players certainly comply with all that's expected of them as individuals. The lads have been buzzing since they reported back after a short rest period, and the most pleasing thing is that they showed great attitude and continued to demonstrate the good habits that they have developed last season. It was probably a bit too soon for the Rossington lads, but it's not the result or individual performances I'm concerned with, more the overall attitude and the execution of the right things at the right time. It was good for us to get this practice, good for the opposition to gain the experience, and I'm sure that the fans went away happy after seeing some goals as well."