Doncaster Rovers' search for a first League One win continues after a 3-2 home defeat to Plymouth Argyle, a result that leaves them 20th in the table with three points from four games. The club's activity this week also included a deadline-day loan for an experienced striker and ticket details being released for an upcoming fixture.
Grant McCann's side fell to a 3-2 defeat at the Club Doncaster Sports Village on Saturday, September 5th. Rovers started brightly but conceded first when Will Evans scored a rebound before the half-hour mark. Alfie May equalised from the penalty spot early in the second half.
Plymouth retook the lead through Bim Pepple in the 74th minute, and substitute Caleb Watts added a third soon after. Sean Grehan's late headed consolation from a Bayley McCann cross wasn't enough. The Free Press noted goalkeeper Tommy Simkin made six saves, while defender Jay McGrath struggled at times in possession against the Plymouth attack.
Sky Sports has produced highlights of the League One encounter, which are available on their platforms. The broadcaster listed the full-time score as Doncaster Rovers 2-3 Plymouth Argyle in their match coverage. Fans looking to review the key moments from the five-goal thriller can find the video package online.
In a preview published by Plymouth Argyle's official site, Rovers were described as potential "dark horses" for the 2026/27 season under McCann. The preview highlighted the summer signings of Alfie May on loan, along with Neill Byrne and James Husband, as proven additions at this level. It noted that while Rovers were yet to win, having drawn three and lost one of their opening four games, they presented a tough test for any visiting side at home.
Oxford United have announced ticket details for their League One trip to face Doncaster Rovers on Saturday, September 26th. According to Oxford's club website, their full allocation of 2,915 tickets for the Club Doncaster Sports Village will go on sale from Monday, September 7th at noon. The club will implement priority sales windows, with 12 wheelchair and personal assistant tickets available and five accessible parking bays.
Manager Grant McCann has explained his thinking behind the loan signing of Lincoln City striker James Collins. Collins, 35, joined on deadline day until January despite not playing in 2026 due to an ACL injury suffered last December. He is in the final stages of rehabilitation and is expected to join the squad in the coming weeks.
McCann told the Doncaster Free Press he believes Collins will be a "top signing," citing the forward's experience and promotion pedigree. "I think he’ll be a really great signing for us," McCann said. "An experienced leader, a goalscorer, a tremendous person." The move is designed to give Collins game time before his future is reassessed in the winter window.
Rovers' immediate focus is on ending their winless start. They sit seven points behind league leaders Huddersfield Town, having scored four goals and conceded five so far. Their next chance comes in an away fixture against AFC Wimbledon on September 12th.
