Darren Moore has this message for Doncaster squad ahead of Friday night Sunderland clash at the Stadium of Light

Doncaster Rovers boss Darren Moore is looking forward to his side’s Stadium of Light League One clash tonight – but admits it will prove a “challenging hurdle” for his side.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

The former West Brom man believes the players enjoy playing at the Stadium of Light but is conscious that they don’t let it affect them on the night.

“It's a fantastic arena, the Stadium of Light. It's very, very different going on a Saturday afternoon to a Friday night, it's a very challenging hurdle,” said Moore.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“I played up there a few times and it used to wet my lips because as a boy growing up wanting to be a professional footballer, those were the sort of arenas you wanted to play in.

Phil Parkinson.Phil Parkinson.
Phil Parkinson.

“It's a lovely arena but it's the same green pitch, the same goalposts, 11 v 11 so when the game starts you put all that behind you.”

Moore will be hoping that his side will learn from the reverse fixture that saw the Black Cats win 2-1 over the festive period.

“We didn't play each other too long ago, it should be a good game with a wonderful atmosphere,” he added. “They're on a good run and we know they're a strong team within the division.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“We've got to be absolutely on top of our game to get a result but it's a game we look forward to. They strong, reliable, efficient, consistent, they know what they are. It does what it says on the tin in terms of where they are as a team.

“It's a good test for us to pit our wits against them and prepare as best as we possibly can. It's a great challenge for us.”

Moore thinks that despite their struggles, Sunderland should still be pushing for the League One title, adding: “I think the bookies have got Sunderland as favourites to win the league and you can understand because of the financial power they've got, the players at their disposal, the fanbase.

“They probably feel they're in the wrong league but they are where they are and their next opponents are us.”