Doncaster Rovers manager Grant McCann did not hold back in his criticism after his side squandered a two-goal lead in a frustrating 2-2 draw with Swindon Town at the Eco-Power Stadium.
Rovers were in complete control after just 22 minutes, thanks to an early goal from Rob Street inside the opening 19 seconds and a first league goal for Joe Sbarra. However, an inspired double substitution by Swindon boss Ian Holloway saw Danny Butterworth and Joe Westley strike seconds apart at the start of the second half, leaving Doncaster just two points clear of fourth-placed AFC Wimbledon.
McCann’s Frustration as Doncaster Lose Grip
McCann did not hide his disappointment at how his side allowed Swindon back into the game, admitting he felt as though they had been beaten.
“I feel like we have just got beaten, to be honest. It felt like a loss,” said McCann. “We were very good in the first half. We should have probably been more than 2-0 up. We controlled the whole first half. But the start to the second half and for it to change so quickly within five minutes—within a minute of that first goal—was just not good enough. We are bitterly disappointed.”
Doncaster struggled to cope with the energy of Swindon’s substitutes, particularly Botan Ameen on the right flank, whose pace and delivery helped create both goals. McCann admitted his side had not done enough to prepare for the changes.
“We wanted to carry on from where we left off in the second half,” he said. “Ian will probably say his subs have come on and made a massive impact—and they have. Butterworth and Westley both scored, and Ameen tortured us for two goals. It was a good impact from his bench. He will be delighted with that, but we need to get better in moments like that.”
“I Cannot Be Handing Laptops to Them Every Minute”
McCann was particularly exasperated by his side’s inability to learn from pre-match analysis, expressing his frustration with a sharp remark about player preparation.
“We need to learn better. We have all the clips prepared for the players in the changing room, and I cannot be handing laptops to them every single minute.”
Despite the second-half lapse, McCann credited his players for steadying themselves in the final stages.
Writer’s View
Doncaster’s failure to see out games remains a concern as they battle for a play-off spot. McCann’s frustration is understandable, as this was a prime opportunity to solidify their position in the promotion race. While their first-half performance was dominant, lapses in concentration and a lack of adaptability cost them dearly.
