Last Update:
August 22, 2024
After 84 years of playing football at their old Belle Vue ground, the Club moved to the Eco-Power Stadium, which was opened on January 1st 2007. The Eco-Power Stadium cost £21m to build and is also home to the Doncaster Dons Rugby League team and occasionally Doncaster Belles.
To be honest, the Eco-Power stadium, in common with several new stadiums, looks far more interesting from the outside than it does on the inside. The stadium is situated next to a lake (which makes Doncaster the only league ground to do so) and looks smart with four interesting-looking floodlights, protruding at an angle from the stadium roof. However, on the inside, the stadium is rather non-descript. Yes, it looks tidy, the stadium is completely enclosed and all the covered stands are of the same height. But it lacks character and it is rather similar to other new stadiums that have been built, except that it is on a smaller scale.
On one side is the West Stand, which is the Main Stand, containing the teams’ dressing rooms and the players tunnel and team dugouts at its front. The primary television gantry is also housed on this side, along with press facilities. Opposite is the East Stand which contains a row of 16 executive boxes, outside which patrons can sit. These run across the back of the stand. Both ends are identical, with the North End of the ground being allocated to away fans.
Unusually the stadium has large access points in three corners of the ground, which can be used if need be, by emergency services. There is a large video screen located in the southwest corner of the stadium. The ground is completed with a set of four floodlights which are mounted on the roof in each corner.
Away fans are located in the North Stand at one end of the stadium, where up to 3,344 fans can be accommodated. If demand requires it then a portion of the East Stand can also be allocated increasing the allocation to 3,700.
Like several clubs now, fans are searched on entry to the stadium. Cash is not accepted at the turnstiles so you will need to purchase a ticket beforehand. Inside the facilities are fine and the view of the playing action and legroom are both good, although fans are set well back from the pitch. The stewarding is usually unobtrusive and helpful. The low roof of the stand ensures that the acoustics are good allowing the away fans to generate some noise. from this area.
The concourses are of a good size and there are several televisions on view to keep supporters entertained. These televisions show Sky Sports before the match.
Mark Chatterton a visiting Southend United supporter adds; ‘It poured down with rain at our last match and it was noticeable around the stadium that those people sitting in the front rows of the stands, got particularly wet.’ Fans who wish to smoke are allowed outside the stadium at halftime.
Please note that cash is not accepted at the turnstiles, they are ticket only. Tickets for the away section can be purchased on the day from the Academy Reception in the northwest corner of the stadium.
Free Wifi: Yes – Logon to StadiumGuest Network.
- Beefeater – White Rose Way, DN4 5PJ
- The Harewood – 28 Waterdale, DN1 3EY
- Doncaster Brewery Tap – 7 Young Street, DN1 3EL
- Hallcross – 32 Hall Gate, DN1 3NL
- The Gate House – 6 Priory Walk, DN1 1TS
- Ballers Sports Bar – 14 Silver Street, DN1 1HQ
- The Railway Pub – West Street, DN1 3AA
- The Leopard – 2 West Street, DN1 3AA
- The Draughtsman Alehouse – Doncaster Station, DN1 1PE
The chippy tea butty – fishcake on a bed of chips, topped with mushy peas and tartar sauce at Doncaster Rovers FC (@drfc_official)
💷 £8 pic.twitter.com/F2aUFBuV3L
— Footy Scran (@FootyScran) January 25, 2024
Chilli chicken loaded fries at Doncaster Rovers (@drfc_official)
💷 £7.50 pic.twitter.com/yr9brGGeoI
— Footy Scran (@FootyScran) September 4, 2023
Chicken, pulled pork and chips at Doncaster Rovers (@drfc_official)
💷 £7.50 pic.twitter.com/8ULO6ja0CF
— Footy Scran (@FootyScran) August 18, 2023
There are 30 turnstiles at the Eco-Power Stadium. This includes eight for away fans located in the North Stand. The ticket office is located next to the official club shop behind South Stand.
Meanwhile, the players tunnel and matchday reception are located in the middle of turnstiles 17-22, which are at both ends of the West Stand.
Doncaster’s most vocal supporters are in the South Stand, which can be accessed via turnstiles 11-16. There are five disabled turnstiles located on all four parts of the ground.
From the A1(M) join the M18 Eastbound at Junction 35 (signposted Hull) or from the M1, join the M18 Eastbound at Junction 32.
Once on the M18, leave at Junction 3 and take the A6182 towards Doncaster (the stadium is well signposted from Junction 3 and is about one and a half miles away). You will pass a retail park on your left and then at the next island (which has the Lakeside Pub visible behind it) turn left onto White Rose Way. The Lakeside Shopping Centre is now on your right (the stadium is located directly behind the shopping centre). At the next island turn right onto the industrial estate and after passing the Tesco distribution centre on your right, turn right at the bottom of the road and the stadium is further down on your left.
Car Parking
There are just 1,000 car parking spaces at the stadium, which means that for the bigger games, parking will be at a premium. There are 60 parking spaces reserved for disabled fans, which must be booked before matchday. The stadium management is also giving preference for parking to those cars carrying more than one passenger, but this won’t be enforced. The cost of parking at the stadium is £5. Alan Wilson adds; ‘Having parked at the stadium it took me nearly an hour to get out of the car park and back onto the main road after the game had ended’. Alternatively, several firms in the nearby industrial park, offer matchday parking at around £3-£4 per vehicle. If you happen to arrive a couple of hours before kick-off then there is also some free street parking to be had in this area.
Away coaches are parked in Car Park number on the approach to the stadium. This is for £20. Coaches need to follow the stadium signs, and then the entrance to the car park is directly ahead when you see the first group of car park stewards. There is also the option of renting a private driveway near the local area via YourParkingSpace.co.uk.
Post Code for SAT NAV: DN4 5JW
Doncaster Railway Station is just under two miles away from the Keepmoat Stadium, so you are probably best taking a taxi to the ground. Â If you do have time on your hands and you fancy the long walk (around 25-30 minutes) then as you come out of the station turn right and then keep straight on this road (the A 6182 Trafford Way) and you will eventually reach the Keepmoat Stadium complex on your left. Peter Wood informs me; ‘You can catch First Bus Number 56, from the Doncaster Interchange bus station, which is adjacent to the train station and under the Frenchgate Shopping Centre. Leaving from stand A3 (destination Rossington) it runs every 15 minutes on Saturday Afternoons. See the Travel South Yorkshire website too. The journey time is around 15-20 minutes.
- Travelodge Doncaster Lakeside – Lakeside Boulevard, Doncaster DN4 5PL England
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Hilton Garden Inn Doncaster Racecourse – Leger Way, Doncaster DN2 6BB England
- Senior: £16-£17
- Young Adult (18-24): £16-£17
- 14-17: £9
- 13 and under: £5
- 2 and under: Free
Doncaster Rovers initially didn’t have a stable place to play, they played wherever they could. It went on like that for six years until they settled at the Deaf Ground in 1885. Doncaster played at the Deaf Ground —later renamed the Intake Ground— until the First World War when the club was closed down. Doncaster Rovers were reformed after the war but since the Intake Ground had been turned into an army depot, the club had to find a new place to play their games. They were given a lease on a field at Bennetthorpe. They stayed there for just two years.
In 1922, Doncaster Rovers moved to the Belle Vue Stadium. This was not only the field with the biggest pitch in the United Kingdom but it also had one of the best playing surfaces in the country. The Belle Vue Stadium was Doncaster’s ground for 85 years until they moved to the Eco-Power Stadium in 2007. Five years later, Rovers got a 99-year lease on Eco-Power Stadium; they’ve been there since.
For details of disabled facilities and club contact at the ground please visit the relevant page on the Level Playing Field website.
Record Attendance
At the Keepmoat Stadium:
15,001 v Leeds United
League One, 1st April 2008
At Belle Vue:
37,149 v Hull City
Third Division North, October 2nd 1948
Average Attendance
2023-2024: 6,562 (League Two)
2022-2023: 6,568 (League Two)
2021-2022: 6,605 (League One)
2020-2021: 0 (Covid) (League One)
2019-2020: 8,252 (League One)
Ground Layout
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
Images
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
Doncaster Rovers v Bolton Wanderers
League One
Tuesday 11th February 2020, 7.45pm
Dan Maguire (Doing the 92)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the Keepmoat Stadium?
Doing the 92 of this would be ground number 67.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
I was working in Leeds so drove down to Doncaster. On arrival, there were three car park entrances (two were for members) and the public car park was further down stadium way passed the running track and in front of the astroturf. The parking cost £5.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
I turned up early so ventured into the stadium bar which was open to all fans (home and away). Inside the bar was spacious and a good atmosphere.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Keepmoat Stadium?
I love the fact this ground is complete (unlike most stadiums in league Two!). It is a really nice ground, just a shame that I visited on a VERY cold night.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The match was a 2-1 win for Doncaster, but in truth, the game was a pretty poor affair. The stadium seemed pretty empty (the attendance was just over 7,000) but respect to the 500+ Bolton fans who made good noise. The food and drink options were poor (If like me you are vegan!) They did have a black coffee machine but charged you extra for that which didn't seem right…
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
I left the game a little early to make the long journey home and also to get warm on what was a very cold night. Finally got back at 01:30 thanks to the joy of many road closures!
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
A really nice ground just a shame to see it mostly empty. Another club who don't understand the need for vegan options for fans.
Doncaster Rovers v MK Dons
League 1
Saturday 7th December 2019, 3pm
Peter Williams (MK Dons)
Doncaster Rovers v Portsmouth
League 1
Saturday 5th October 2019, 3pm
Michael G (Portsmouth)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the Keepmoat Stadium?
I was looking forward to this game as it was a stadium which I had wanted to visit for ages.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
The journey was very easy coming from down south. Parking wasn't an issue as we parked about 2 miles away from the ground in a very friendly area. Approaching the ground you (depending on what way you approach) you come against this beautiful lake which is very nice, clean, tidy and peaceful….. However, it takes ages to walk around it to be able to then make your way into the ground.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Before the game, we used the away end facilities for food and beer. The home fans were friendly and it's obvious to see its a family club with lots of parents with their children.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Keepmoat Stadium?
From the outside the ground looks modern and nice, inside its looks lot smaller and a bit plain, nonetheless, it's a decent little ground.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
On arrival at the away turnstiles its a full search and pat down by stewards who think they're Rambo! The stewards at this ground take their jobs very seriously and try to make everyone sit down throughout the game, but the Portsmouth fans didn't listen to them and continued to stand throughout the whole game. The only atmosphere was from the away fans, with very little noise from the Doncaster support.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Getting out of the ground is very easy as its an open area with no housing.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
Overall a decent stadium and a very nice, tidy area around the Keepmoat. A brilliant result as somehow we managed to win 3-2. I would recommend Doncaster to any away fan.
Doncaster Rovers v Blackpool
League One
Tuesday 17th September 2019, 7.45 pm
Andrew Davidson (Doing the 92)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the Keepmoat Stadium?
As I had a couple of days off work, I was looking to visit a new ground that is fairly easy to reach by train from London. Doncaster seemed to be a perfect choice as I could buy a ticket on the night of the game.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
We travelled from Kings Cross to Doncaster at midday, arriving at about 2 pm, and checked into the Premier Inn Hotel near Doncaster Minster. Later on in the evening we used the 56 bus from the Frenchgate interchange to the Keepmoat, which was very easy to do.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
We went to the Pizza hut restaurant on the Lakeside outlet. This area is an excellent option for pre-match drink/food as it also has a Beefeater and a McDonalds, and is only a five minute walk from the ground. On the night both sets of fans mixed happily together.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Keepmoat Stadium?
I was impressed with the layout and look of the outside of the stadium, especially the sloping floodlights. Inside the Keepmoat is a very smart, comfortable small-medium stadium that is the perfect size for League one. The legroom is excellent as is the view from the seats.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The first half was a very dull affair. After the break, the match exploded into life, with attacking, exciting football. The Blackpool fans were very noisy, going wild as they won in added time. The home fans were fairly quiet throughout the game. Having already eaten and being a non-drinker, I bought a couple of diet cokes, which were quite pricey.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
As there did not seem to be any buses or signs to indicate where they would be, we followed a large group of fans on the walk back to town. This saved £1.20 and burnt a bit of the pizza off!
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
I really enjoyed the visit and would like to return to see the Doncaster rugby league team there. The only negative was the bus service back to town, which is probably easier for a 3 pm game.
Doncaster Rovers v Gillingham
League 1
Saturday 3rd August 2019, 3pm
Stan Dicken (Gillingham)
Doncaster Rovers v Barnsley
League 1
Friday 15th March 2019, 7.45 pm
David Crossfield (Barnsley)
Doncaster Rovers v AFC Wimbledon
League 1
Saturday 17th November 2018, 3pm
Ian Bradley (Neutral)
Doncaster Rovers v Sunderland
League One
Tuesday 23rd October 2018, 7.45pm
Alex Hendrikson (Sunderland)
Doncaster Rovers v Portsmouth
League One
Saturday 25th August 2018, 3pm
Michael Thomas (Portsmouth)
Walking from the parking space to the ground involved walking around a lake so we stopped and sat on a bench until kick off approached. Doncaster put a lot on before the game, a lot for kids and a fan park to take in the atmosphere before the game.
Doncaster Rovers vs Wycombe Wanderers
League One
Saturday 11th August 2018, 3pm
Joe Guntrip (Wycombe Wanderers)
Doncaster Rovers v Bristol Rovers
Football League One
Saturday 27th January 2018, 3pm
Yaz Shah (Bristol Rovers fan)
Doncaster Rovers v Exeter City
Football League Two
Saturday 29th April 2017, 3pm
Steve Ellis (Exeter City fan)
Why were you looking forward to going to the Keepmoat Stadium?
The Keepmoat Stadium was a new ground for me as well as most other City fans. Also with a League Play-Off spot up for grabs against a team that was already promoted it promised to be a good match.
How easy was your journey and finding the Keepmoat Stadium?
Travelling up on the supporters coach the journey was straight forward leaving Exeter at 7.15am arriving just before 1pm, the coach dropping us right outside the away entrance.
What did you do before the game, pub, chippy….home fans friendly?
On arrival we went to the Belle Vue Bar at the ground where drinks were averagely priced from £3.30 or two pints for £6, or pie and pint for £5. There was a very good queuing system so never anyone blocking the bar. There were big screens showing the live early televised game and the home fans were friendly.
4. What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end and then other sides of the Keepmoat Stadium?
From the outside the Keepmoat Stadium looks good for ten years old. The away end matches the rest of the stadium as it's all enclosed with no restricted views, there is also plenty of leg room between the seats and a fantastic atmosphere can also be made. The refreshments concourse is not the biggest so would probably be cramped with a capacity away following.
View From The Away End
5. Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, refreshments etc.
The game seemed to be very open with both teams having chances with Exeter going on to win 3-1 and securing a play-off spot. The atmosphere was good but didn't hear much from the Donny faithful considering they were already promoted. The stewards were very low key and hardly noticed. I only had a pint at half time which was priced at £3.30, toilets were clean.
6. Comments on getting away from the ground after the game.
Getting away after was slow at first but once on the main road it's was no problem
Attendance: 7,790 (667 away fans)
Doncaster Rovers v Mansfield Town
Football League Two
Saturday 8th April 2017, 3pm
Ryan Jones (Mansfield Town fan)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the Keepmoat Stadium?
I had been to Doncaster's ground once before in 2016 to watch Stoke City in a FA Cup tie at the Keepmoat, which I had enjoyed. I was looking forward to the game as it isn't too far from Mansfield so it was a bit of a derby game. Also Mansfield were still in with a shout of the play offs and Doncaster could get promoted with a win or draw depending on results elsewhere.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
The journey was straightforward as it was all motorway. Finding the Keepmoat was also easy. Although car parking wasn't very good as we struggled a bit a first to find a parking space, eventually finding somewhere on the nearby industrial estate.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
We just went straight into the ground and went to our seats. My dad did get a bottle of Fanta before the game to share. At a cost of £2.20 it was a bit of a rip off, but I guess football is like that nowadays, very expensive. I brought a match day programme for £3 which was an okay programme with a section on Mansfield town and stats such as results and also notes from Doncaster's manager Darren Ferguson.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Keepmoat Stadium?
The Keepmoat Stadium is a very good ground by League Two standards. All of the sides are the same size and it has a nice uniform look about it. The away end is quite a decent size with good facilities and views of the action.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The game was not a classic, it ended with Doncaster winning 1-0 scoring mid way through the second half. This was enough for them to win promotion back to League One at their first attempt. The stewards mostly kept themselves to themselves.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Getting away was easy as we left just before the final whistle.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
The day out at the Keepmoat was generally good although it was a shame really that Mansfield didn't turn up. I enjoyed the journey up to Doncaster it's a nice run. Would definitely go back to the Keepmoat Stadium in the future as it's a very good ground.
Doncaster Rovers v Plymouth Argyle
Football League Two
Sunday 26th March 2017, 2.45pm
David King (Plymouth Argyle fan)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the Keepmoat Stadium?
It would be my first visit to the Keepmoat and what a game it promised to be! First against second in the league, a live televised game and Doncaster with an unbeaten home league record stretching back twelve months. Additionally Plymouth had a decent away record and two fiery Scottish managers in charge.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Hearing about difficulties getting away after games from the area around the ground, I parked at nearby Potteric Carr and walked to the ground which took about 15- 20 minutes.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
I went to the Lakeside Beefeater pub near the ground about two hours before kick off and was made welcome. No food was available as it was Mothering Sunday and the restaurant was busy. However myself and quite a few other fans of both clubs had some drinks and there was no trouble.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Keepmoat Stadium?
I walked to the ground from the Beefeater pub and had a look around. The Keepmoat is an impressive looking modern stadium with all the facilities you would expect. I went into the bar at the ground to get some food however there were long queues so opted for some food in the away end after picking up a programme.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The facilities in the away end were good with plenty of toilets which were clean and several well staffed refreshment points. I picked up a distinctly average beef pie for £3.10. The Doncaster fans surprisingly did not turn out in great numbers for this game but Argyle fans numbered around 900 including former manager Neil Warnock. The view was good and the fans in good voice. As at Mansfield recently Argyle were struggling to keep the ball and Doncaster were very threatening. The Plymouth goalkeeper made several good saves in the first half including an outstanding one from Donny top scorer Marquis. Argyle were extremely lucky to go in at half time 0-0.
The second half was more of the same from Doncaster but against the run of play Argyle took the lead on 50 minutes with a Sonny Bradley header from a corner. Doncaster later created several good chances including one from Coppinger that Argyle goalkeeper Luke McCormick did really well to push over the crossbar. The last 15 minutes was back to the wall for Argyle as Doncaster pressed for the equaliser with four strikers on the pitch but Argyle held out for the win.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
I walked back to the car at Potteric Carr and headed straight for the M18 and M1 without much delay. A closure on the M5 near Bristol meant a long detour however given the result I didn't mind too much!
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
A great result against a good Doncaster team who surely go up as Champions of League Two. Argyle need to keep picking up points on the road to make up for their poor home record. Shame a few more Doncaster fans did not turn up to watch their team.
Doncaster Rovers v Grimsby Town
Football League Two
Saturday 17th December 2016, 12.30pm
Kevin Dixon (Grimsby Town fan)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the Keepmoat Stadium?
This is our nearest trip of the season, and a ground I have not yet visited, as our paths have not crossed for many years. We had sold our full allocation of over 4,000 tickets in double quick time, so a good day out was on the cards.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Having visited the neighbouring retail park on numerous occasions, I had no worries about finding the place. It is less than an hour from Grimsby, so we were in the stadium car park by 10.30am, having been unable to locate any free places on the neighbouring industrial estate.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
We took a stroll to the nearby Lakeside Beefeater pub, which was crammed with both home and away fans, with everybody getting on fine.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Keepmoat Stadium?
Although it has been open almost ten years, the Keepmoat maintains a new, modern look.There is plenty of room for fans to mingle around the outside, and once inside, the concourses are quite spacious. The seating is fairly uniform all the way round the stadium, with a row of executive boxes running along both sides of the ground half way up the seating areas. The only criticism I have is that the seats are very close together, and if we had been forced to sit down throughout the game, it would have been very cosy. Fortunately, the stewards and Police didn't force us to sit, so we stood apart from a brief sit down at half time. Overall I think this is the type of stadium we should be looking at for Grimsby Town.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
We gave away a cheap free kick in the third minute, from which Doncaster scored an excellent goal, and then we struggled through the first half much as we had done against Portsmouth the previous week. Despite all their possession, Doncaster failed to create any more chances, and totally against the run of play, we should have equalised just before half time, with Danny Collins failing to get enough on his header from Danny Andrew's free kick. The second half, we competed better, but neither side troubled the opposing goalkeeper. There was a large police and steward presence, but by and large our fans were well behaved. We didn't try the food, but the toilets were fine.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
There looked to be a big traffic jam as we came out of the ground, so we returned to the aforementioned Lakeside Beefeater for a post match pint and discussion. I doubt it is normally as difficult as this to get away, as not many teams will bring 4,000 here.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
A good day out, despite the result, with the black and white army providing plenty of vocal support as usual. I would happily come here again, and as I said earlier, we could do worse than aiming for a ground like this when/if we ever move!
Doncaster Rovers v Millwall
Football Championship League
Saturday 27th February 2016, 3pm
Callum Rose (Doing the 92)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the Keepmoat Stadium?
I wanted to tick off another football ground on my list, and it was a top versus bottom clash between Doncaster Rovers and Millwall.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
We travelled by car along the motorway from our home in Manchester, and the Keepmoat Stadium was well signposted as we neared Doncaster.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
We parked up at our hotel, The Park Inn, which was a five minute walk to the ground, and went in the Belle Vue sports bar, which is situated on the West Stand of the ground. The home fans we came across were friendly and happy to chat.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Keepmoat Stadium?
As with all newly-built grounds, they are very similar in style.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The game was very open in itself. Millwall took the lead on six minutes after a terrible headed backpass from Paul Keegan, allowing Steve Morrison to score. However, Doncaster showed grit and determination and equalized on 38 minutes after a stabbed shot from Richard Chaplow. Both teams went in at half-time level and had several chances to win the game, but the final ball either came to nothing or was wasted, and the match finished 1-1. The atmosphere from both sets of fans was raucous, with one chap in the home stand in particular shouting insults to opposing players. After 30 minutes, me and my father went to the kiosk and bought 2 steak pies, a hot chocolate and a Fanta. The steak pies, in particular, were superb!
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
As it was only a 5 minute walk from the ground to the hotel, we were fine getting away from the Keepmoat Stadium.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
I seemed to really enjoy myself at my 27th football ground. The draw was a fair result, given Doncaster's shocking run of form, but if anything, the Rovers should have on all three points. Great game plus great pies = perfect afternoon!
Doncaster Rovers v Sheffield United
Football League One
Saturday 13th February 2016, 3pm
Chris Atkins (Neutral fan)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the Keepmoat Stadium?
I live in South Yorkshire, not that far away from Doncaster and the prospect of watching a local derby, seemed too good an opportunity to miss.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
I travelled by train from Rotherham Central to Doncaster. It was a short 25 minute journey.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
I had a pre-match drink in The Railway Tavern which is close to the train station. Although there was plenty of Police at the station it all seemed relaxed. As you come out of the station turn right and the pub is about 100 yards through the station car park on West Street. The pub itself was busy with a fair number of Blades fans in there. The landlord was allowing singing and there was a good pre-match atmosphere in there. I didn't see any trouble. Beer was good and cheap with a pool table in there as well. They had loads of real ales and I sampled a Cornish Coast ale which was excellent! I was then able to jump on a shuttle bus to the Keepmoat Stadium from the bus station opposite. Others from the pub were also getting taxis from the rank outside, whilst some were embarking on a twenty minute walk to the ground.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Keepmoat Stadium?
I sat in the home end behind the goal. There was quite a large section of singing fans in this area, who actually did create quite a bit of a noise. Something I've not associated with this ground before. These fans also had banners and flags. I think they were trying to create an "ultra" feel.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
It was poor game for a local derby, although Sheffield United did claim the three points from a solitary goal late in the first half. Looking at the stats after the game there were only three shots on target and not many flying tackles going in, which you would expect in a local derby. The food on offer inside the stadium was okay, but as with many stadiums they were over priced.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Even though this was a big crowd for this ground (just over 10,000), getting out was easy as I had no problems getting on the shuttle bus back into town.
Doncaster Rovers v Rochdale
Football League One
Saturday 21st November 2015, 3pm
John Boynton (Neutral fan)
Why were you looking forward to visiting the Keepmoat Stadium?
Mainly to have a proper football experience at a ground I haven't been to before. Being a Chelsea fan I still enjoy watching them play in the Premier League but the awayday experience seemed to be much more satisfying in the 80's when I was watching them in the old Division 2. I've been to your Old Trafford's, St James Park, Goodison by I still much prefer a trip to Oldham or Burnley etc where footballs roots feel more real.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
I come from Northumberland so a pre requisite for my choice of venue was somewhere convenient on the train from Newcastle. Doncaster was an hour and a half direct from Newcastle so it was a good choice. To give me a plan B for after the game I walked to the ground. It was turn right from the station and follow the 3 A roads that are evident on Google maps to the turn off for the Keepmoat stadium. It was pavement all the way just the odd slight diversion to be able to get across roads but as straightforward as I hoped for and took about 40-45 minutes from train to stadium ticket office.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
You are spoilt for choice for food as there is a retail park next to the stadium as well as food outlets at the ground. I killed some time by going to the retail park to check out the bus stop there, to wander the shops and pick up a pasty from Greggs, as it was bitter cold on the day ! There was no issue with home fans and the odd away supporter was in evidence without any apparent incident. I met a number of locals but I'm not sure they were fans of the team as such. As I expected they were lovely, down to earth and happy to help.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Keepmoat Stadium?
The area around the Keepmoat Stadium is very pleasant. The space is nice and open, tidy and has lots of amenities. It reminded me of a smaller version of Middlesborough's Riverside Stadium. There seemed to be loads of parking available at the ground with some unofficial private space being available close by as well at £4. As with all new grounds it looks and feels the same inside and out. They always feel a bit like a McDonalds outlet; as though they have been built elsewhere and then arrive ready made on the back of a lorry. All credit to Doncaster though it was a very pleasant ground in a pleasant situation.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The game itself was enjoyable without being exceptional. Doncaster looked the more likely side in the first half. They played well as a team, with some nice quick passing football, but lacked the individual quality to open Rochdale up. The second half was much more even and Rochdale scored a text book break away goal late on which was finished really well to break the deadlock and then made it 2-0 late in injury time. As it was unreserved seating in the South stand I opted to sit there behind the goal. The Doncaster fans were vocal throughout and gave the team very good support. Unfortunately this support was accompanied for the full 90 minutes by a couple of drums. To me this was pretty annoying and i'm firmly of the opinion that musical instruments should be banned from grounds!! Maybe i'm just old fashioned. I love the atmosphere and singing along with Chelsea fans on the road and we don't need a drum!
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Much as the stewards tried to be helpful my one major complaint from my visit was that everyone seems to have a different story about buses leaving after the game. I'd read before traveling that there were buses from the ground back into town. The lass in the ticket office confirmed a bus would leave from just outside the South Stand. Another steward said it would leave from Car Park 2. Another said it would leave from a lay-by or Car Park 2 but this would be announced during the game. He also said I could get a bus from the retail park. Needless to say there was no announcement during the game and when I asked a steward on the way out where the bus was he could only tell me that he travels to the ground by car so had no idea about buses! I went with the plan of going to the retail park to get the service bus from there. There seems to be two buses from here but a very helpful local gent ensured I got the right one for the town centre. It goes to the Interchange which is right next to the train station.This bus passes two bus stops as it goes back past the ground. On this occasion at the first stop everyone managed to cram on, but the bus drove past the queue of people at the second stop due to being full. I seemed to over hear home supporters grumbling that there used to be three buses lined up to take fans away after the game and now the club don't even bother to announce if there are buses or not. Shame on the club if they have stopped showing concern for their supporters now; they need to do better than what i experienced. My advice would be to go to the bus stop at the retail park outside of McDonalds. It's a five minute walk but it has a shelter with a couple of seats and it should ensure you get a seat on the bus. I was back at the train station at 5.35pm with the bus taking about 20 minutes to get through the traffic and back into town.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
I had a very enjoyable if whistle stop visit to Doncaster. It was lovely and sunny but bitterly cold. The ground was pretty easy to get to with a good shopping centre next to it. This has a couple of budget hotels so take the chance to stop over if you can. The locals were salt of the earth and it's another ground ticked off my list of 92. Just a shame about the buses after the match. Come on Doncaster Rovers sort this out, respect your loyal supporters who have to travel out of town to this nice new stadium and put a bespoke bus or two on for them after every game.
Doncaster Rovers v Southend United
League One
Wednesday, 19th August 2015, 7.45pm
John & Stephen Spooner (Southend United fans)
Why you were looking forward to going to the Keepmoat Stadium?
It was to be our first visit to the Keepmoat Stadium. Plus it was our first game of the new season since seeing Southend promoted in the Wembley play off final last May.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
We travelled as exiles from North Wales via M56 then onto the old Sheffield Road (A628) through the Peak District. Then joining the M1 and then the M18 to Doncaster. In total the journey from home for us was about 100 miles. From the M18 the stadium was well signposted. Stewards located at the Keepmoat Stadium entrance directed us further along to car park C which cost £5.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
We sat in our car and enjoyed some pre-packed sandwiches and a coffee. We then walked round the outside of the stadium and read the 70 page programme (which cost £3), back in the car. The locals seemed friendly enough and stewards were pleasant and informative.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
The stadium is obviously new and neat. There is a large concourse giving access to food outlets and toilets. We were seated in a section of the East Stand towards the normal away end behind the goal. The away end was closed off for refurbishment apparently. All the stands are similar in design and give a rather bland appearance, compared to older stadiums with their characteristic stands of differing designs and size.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The game was played on a perfect pitch at the start of season, despite rugby also being played on it. The game was interesting with both sides looking for a first league win. The atmosphere was okay but with a crowd of 5,164 it was a rather quiet affair. The 350 Southend fans gave good verbal support urged on by our drummer, but chances of a goal were few and far between and a 0-0 result was a fair reflection of the tussle. Stewards were low key, but fans behaved themselves so not a lot for them to do. We can vouch for the chicken balti and steak pies at £3 and the toilets were clean.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
A short walk back to the car park and we we were soon back on the M18 to the M1 and with rain arriving we stuck this time to the motorways via M62 and M56, back to North Wales.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
We enjoyed the trip to Doncaster, marking off yet another ground. The football played was always interesting and despite hoping for a win, we left happy that Southend United could cope at this higher level. An easy stadium to find, good parking, no trouble, good stewards, good food and a good modern stadium, well worthy of a visit.
Doncaster Rovers v Bury
Football League One
Saturday 8th August 2015, 3pm
Malcolm Parr (Bury fan)
Why you were looking forward to going to the Keepmoat Stadium?
This was my first visit to the Keepmoat Stadium. It was our first fixture in League One following our dramatic last-day promotion from League Two in May 2015.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
The ground was signposted from Junction 3 of the M18. The car parking signs are clear and there is ample space. It took us about 90 minutes to travel from Lancashire to the ground.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
We went into the ground upon my arrival. There is a concourse beneath the stand which serves food and alcohol. This was as good a place as any to meet my friends.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
The stadium is an imposing sight from the outside. It is similar to Darlington's ill-fated "Reynolds Arena", but it is built on a smaller scale. Home and away stands are identical. Spectators benefit from an unobstructed view of the pitch.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The game was very enjoyable. Both teams created several chances. There was a good atmosphere. The afternoon will be remembered for the unusual way in which the game concluded. Our 'keeper kicked the ball into touch to enable a colleague to obtain treatment for an injury. A Rovers player attempted to return the ball to the 'keeper from the resulting throw-in. Unfortunately, he over-hit his pass and scored. This led to an ill-tempered confrontation between players and officials. The Rovers manager intervened and told his players to allow us to equalize from the kick-off, which we did. The stewarding was low-key. The facilities were clean and modern, but the food looked expensive.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Our visit to the Keepmoat Stadium was soured by the post-match "activities" of 20 to 30 local idiots who confronted some Bury fans as they left the stadium. It was difficult for the police to intervene because the main road away from the car parks was congested. In the end, it took us about 30 minutes to get back to the M18.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
The Keepmoat Stadium benefits from good acoustics, ample parking and adequate spectator comfort. The game was enjoyable. It was an emotional day for both sets of supporters because key figures at both clubs had passed away in the weeks prior to the game. All in all, a memorable afternoon.
Doncaster Rovers v Peterborough United
League One
Saturday 14th March 2015
Mark Wilson (Peterborough United fan)
Why were you looking forward to going to the Keepmoat Stadium?
The Keepmoat was to be ground number 86 in my quest to visit the ‘92’. In fact I had not been to Doncaster’s previous ground at Belle Vue either. Doncaster Rovers FC had generously priced the tickets at £5 per adult to try to get a full house as a gesture to James Coppinger who was hopeful of playing his 450th League game. Unfortunately he was injured so was unable to play in front of a near full house.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Straight up the A1 to the junction with the M18 and then Junction 3 off the motorway. The ground is almost impossible to miss. Nice clear directions from the M18 and the Keepmoat is easily visible when you approach it. A number of small businesses open up their car parks for fans and I parked at Porcelanosa just off White Rose Way for £3. If you arrive a little earlier there a number of roads with street parking but these are taken quickly, as was the case for this particular game.
What you did before the game pub/chippy….home fans friendly?
There is a retail park next to the ground with a small shopping village and plenty of options for eating too. The bulk standard KFC, Pizza Hut and Greggs will ensure there is a choice for most fans and if you have the time there a number of high street outlets in the shopping village only too keen to part you from your hard earned cash.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
I must admit that the Keepmoat is an impressive looking ground from the outside. Once inside it is not too dissimilar to other grounds built around the same time. A decent concourse with live football being shown on TV and a fair selection of drinks/snacks are available from the kiosks.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Both teams were coming into the game looking to enhance their chances of getting into the end of season play-offs. Posh had won three on the bounce and with a renewed confidence took the game to Doncaster. Luke James scored his first (hopefully of many) League goal for the visitors early in the first half to send the packed away end crazy and despite a lot of subsequent home pressure, the heroics of Ben Alnwick in the Posh goal and a late Conor Washington strike ensured the visitors claimed all three points.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Despite hearing to the contrary, the exit from the ground was very smooth. Straight out of the Porcelanosa car park, onto the White Rose Way (tip – you do not need to get into the right hand lane on the A6182 as both lanes will take you out to the M18) and home.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
A fantastic atmosphere thanks to Doncaster’s generosity and it was a real shame for James Coppinger that he couldn’t play. That aside a Posh victory is always worth celebrating. I found Doncaster Rovers to be a very friendly club with a welcoming atmosphere with sensible stewarding too. Despite a very small minority of Posh fans pushing their luck, the stewards kept them in order with the minimum of fuss. The club mascots proved to be popular with the younger Posh fans and were only too keen to be in their ‘selfies’.
Doncaster Rovers v Peterborough United
League One
Saturday, 14th March 2015, 3pm
Kevin Chestney (Peterborough United fan)
Why you were looking forward to going to the Keepmoat Stadium?
I have been a couple of times before, but as Doncaster were only charging £5 for adults and a £1 for kids for a James Coppinger testimonial, it seemed a good deal. Plus we had sold around 2,300 tickets so a good atmosphere was expected.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
I know Doncaster fairly well (wife and in laws from there), but we took the advice given on this website to arrive early and parked the car about half a mile from the ground in a side street in an industrial estate.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Prior to the game we went to Doncaster Market which is an old traditional market stocking all manner of meats and fish, although parking was a bit of a problem taking 20 minutes to wait for a space. If you have never been its all good wholesome food and reasonably priced. So having got our stock of joints of meat, fish and pies for the freezer we went to go to a Wetherspoons pub in the town near the market to find it was under renovation (Red Lion) so had to walk a further 5 minutes towards the ground to another Wetherspoons called the Old Angel. We arrived there at about 12 o'clock but found the place full of fans and only two bar staff. Added to that the gas pump had broken so no draught soft drinks. Having got served eventually we ordered double drinks and something a bit light to eat (Ham egg and chips) two meals for £7-60 washed down with a couple of real ales which with CAMRA vouchers worked out at £1-45 a pint, good deal.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
Although in an Industrial estate it is not in bad surroundings, which are still being developed. There was a Harvester Pub about 5 minutes south of the ground which was popular for both home and away fans. The door security were quite at ease.We went in there for a pre match pint, but what a difference in prices more than double than Wetherspoons. You would think I was Yorkshireman!
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Having arrived at the ground because of the cheap entrance fee the whole place was buzzing, home and away ends. We had a pre match pie (ham egg and chips doesn't last long when washed down with beer) which for a change wasn't just a gravy pie even though it was a Pukka pie. The Stewards were quite anonymous which is what you want as a fan. Alcohol was available but tinned bitter at twice the price of a supermarket is never going to encourage me to buy in the ground.
Although the ground was pretty full, the home support were quite muted after we took the lead.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
The tip on parking away from the ground was tip top as we got away and back into the town to pick up the wife and were back in Peterborough by 7pm.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
A very nice day out, good beer, good food, great atmosphere and more importantly a 2-0 win
Doncaster Rovers v MK Dons
League One
Saturday, October 25th 2014, 3pm
Daniel Palmer (MK Dons fan)
1. Why you were looking forward to going to the ground (or not as the case may be):
The Keepmoat Stadium is a ground I've never done before. Plus it is meant to be one of the better grounds in the league, so I decided to make the trip up from Milton Keynes.
2. How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Myself and four friends decided to get the train up to Doncaster, having managed to find train tickets for around the same price as the official club coach going via Birmingham. We left Milton Keynes at around 8:15am, and after a Wetherspoons stop in Birmingham we got the train up to Doncaster. The ground wasn't difficult to find once we got given directions from a very nice, albeit chatty man outside the train station. Just basically following the same road until an industrial estate turning, and then straight down that to the ground. Overall the journey was around 3 or 4 hours on the train, with about a 20 minute walk to the ground, from the station.
3. What you did before the game pub/chippy…. home fans friendly?
After getting off the train in Doncaster, we decided to stop off at a pub called the 'Tutt and Shive' after a group of Bristol City fans on their way up to Barnsley recommended it. This was fairly busy though, but luckily right next door was a quiet little pub that only had around 10 people in it, all Doncaster fans about to go up to the match. The locals were probably some of the friendliest I have ever met, willing to stop and chat about the game and the season so far. After this stop we walked up to the ground and went into the bar at the ground, where the recurring theme of chatty locals continued while watching the early kick off in the Championship
4. What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the ground?
At first glance from the outside the ground looked stunning and very modern. However, when we made our way into the stadium my first thought was it looked a little dull. If you've been to the New York Stadium you've basically been here, albeit there are slight differences in the steepness and the roofing layout.
5. Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The game itself was an exciting 0-0 draw, end to end stuff with MK looking the more likely winners, but we couldn't break down the very well organised Donny defence. The home fans were certainly the happier after the game and you could tell that as soon as the whistle went. The whole atmosphere was a bit dull from the home fans as only a pocketful were trying to start it up, and we comfortably out sung them for 90 minutes.
The stewards were fairly friendly, as there were only around 350 MK Dons fans they weren't too busy, and always had time for a chat with the away supporters. The concourse behind the away end is very spacious with enough room to manoeuvre around the people gathered by the TV showing Soccer Saturday, although the fact we only had one block of fans may have helped with this. There was a very nice, fairly affordable bar which served everything you could want, and the toilets were spacious too.
6. Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Getting away was alright, there were the odd taunts of 'Franchise' which we get everywhere, but you could tell the home fans only had the courage because they had gotten a point from the game. After a 0-0 draw though the walk back to the station seemed to take forever.
Doncaster Rovers v Reading
Championship League
Saturday, April 26th 2014, 3pm
Dominic Bickerton (Stoke City fan and Doing the 92)
1. Why you were looking forward to going to the ground (or not as the case may be):
My friend and I had been meaning to visit the Keepmoat Stadium for quite a while, as we both live in Sheffield and have done for several years, however only now have we finally ticked off this one from the 92. It's a ground we should have done ages ago, but we were both put off by the fact that on first impressions the stadium seems rather dull and nondescript. A poor excuse for not visiting, but we finally bit the bullet and made the short journey to Donny.
2. How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
The journey from Sheffield to Doncaster is short and simple and the ground is well signposted once you get into Doncaster, so you shouldn't have any issues finding it if you're driving. We parked at the nearby retail park which is free (well, we didn't get a ticket), from there it's a short 5 minute walk to the ground.
3. What you did before the game pub/chippy…. home fans friendly?
We stopped briefly to get some lunch from one of the several food outlets on offer at the retail park which was nice and convenient, and from there we ventured on to the ground.
4. What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the ground?
As mentioned in this guide the stadium is somewhat more interesting in appearance from the outside, with the floodlights being the main feature. The stadium also has fairly scenic location with it being part of the Lakeside area of Doncaster, so it's a bit more pleasant than your average ground location and handy if you fancy a spot of fishing after the match! Inside, the ground is neat and tidy, if somewhat dull in design. I would say it has the appearance of a less interesting equivalent of Rotherham's New York Stadium.
5. Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
We picked this particular match because of the importance of the result to both teams at this late stage of the season. Reading were fighting to consolidate their position in the play offs, whilst Doncaster were hovering dangerously above the drop zone. The game itself was a poor affair and it seemed like it could easily run out a dull 0-0, with neither side really looking like they had much about them.
Somewhat against the run of play Doncaster found themselves 1-0 to the good, when a ball played across the face of goal was dispatched past Alex McCarthy by James Coppinger in the 25th minute. From there Doncaster seemed more likely of the two clubs to get on the score sheet again and came close ten minutes later when Billy Sharp's header was well saved by McCarthy, bringing the half to a close with Rovers 1-0 up.
The second half was a different story and it seemed like Nigel Adkins had given his players one big kick up the backside during the interval. Reading came out in the second half with intent and started looking like a bit more like a team that had recently been in the Premier League. It was no surprise when they bagged an equaliser after 63 minutes, when Adam Le Fondre tucked away a spot-kick after being hauled down in the box, and from there there appeared to be only one winner. The suckerpunch for Doncaster came in the 86th minute as Pavel Pogrebnyak nodded in a cross at far post, and to rub salt in the wound Pogrebnyak sealed his brace in the 90th minute after Alex Pearce walked through the Doncaster defence to present the big Russian with a simple finish. Reading ran out worthy 3-1 winners.
The atmosphere during the game was decent with the home fans starting off quite loudly, especially once they took the lead. The Reading fans were in party mode and had chosen this fixture to be their 'inflatables day', however they had little to make noise about until the second half. Naturally, the Doncaster fans were subdued during the second half and many had left for the exits before the seemingly inevitable Reading winner, leaving Rovers one point above relegation.
I didn't really notice any overzealous stewarding at all, and it appeared that fans at both ends of the ground were allowed to stand throughout the match without any trouble. The concourse and facilities were what you would normally expect and offer the standard fayre, not bad but not brilliant.
6. Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Getting away from the stadium was simple enough, however we did find it took a good 15 minutes to get out of the retail park due to the traffic.
7. Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
It was nowhere near as bad as expected. We had a good day out and a good laugh, despite the action on the pitch being fairly poor. The Keepmoat Stadium might not have a unique design or bags of character but it's by no means the worst ground you'll ever go to.
Doncaster Rovers v Ipswich Town
Championship League
Saturday, April 28th 2012, 3pm
Jono Dorrington (Ipswich Town fan)
1. Why you were looking forward to going to the ground (or not as the case may be):
As I had previously been told that it was a faitry new stadium with some impressive looking floodlights and never have visited Doncaster before.
2. How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
The journey from Suffolk was incredibly straight forward and didn't take as long as expected. With the stadium being Located on an industrial estate, it was a matter of 5 minutes from the M18 and we managed to park for £4 a short walk away.
3. What you did before the game pub/chippy…. home fans friendly?
We walked to a Beefeater pub/restaurant minutes walk from the ground who were happy to serve us. Reasonably priced drinks, in a packed bar and the few home supporters that were there were friendly. Also alongside there is a McDonalds & KFC.
4. What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the ground?
The stadium looks fairly impressive from the outside and yes the floodlights did look stunning, although on the whole, the Keepmoat is fairly similar to other modern stadiums. The away end is big, and housed 1,266 of us Town fans, and the enclosed stadium created a fantastic away atmosphere.
5. Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Stewards were exceptionally friendly, allowing us to sit where we want and also stand throughout the game. The way atmosphere was brilliant although you couldn't say the same regarding the home support. Pints were £3 which is a fair price and the toilet were OK, better than some!
It was an open first half which we dominated and went 2-0 up after a rocket from Stevenson although we sloppily allowed them back into the game, but we came through with a deserved 3-2 win.
6. Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
It was an easy walk back to the car, although it was fairly busy getting out of Doncaster, took us around 20minutes longer, probably due to the fact of some road works too.
7. Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
A thoroughly enjoyable away day to finish the season on 3points. A decent stadium, would come again for the £22 paid.
Doncaster Rovers v Blackpool
Championship League
Tuesday, February 14th 2012, 7.45pm
Jake Dudley (Blackpool fan)
1. Why you were looking forward to going to the ground?
i was looking forward to attending the match as I had never visited the Keepmoat before. Blackpool were on a good run and I thought it was a game we could win.
2. How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Although located in the middle of a large industrial estate, there were no problems travelling to the stadium. We drove and we found there were lots of car parks close to the stadium ranging from £3-£5 pounds.
3. What you did before the game pub/chippy…. home fans friendly?
It was a night game so we headed to get some food, luckily there is a McDonalds only 2 minutes from the ground so we headed there. This was full with Doncaster supporters who were very friendly apart from a few teenager "chavs" who were throwing a few gestures around.
4. What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the ground?
First impressions were very different from when inside the stadium. Its like every other "new modern" stadium but on a very smaller scale, with 4 floodlights erecting from each corner. When inside the stadium the away section is situated behind one of the goals. With the Blackpool fans on form it made for a very good atmosphere from the away fans however, very little noise from the home support.
5. Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The game was fantastic with Blackpool winning 3-1. A really good atmosphere can be generated from the away section. The stewards were laid back letting the Blackpool fans sit where they wanted and allowed fans to stand which helped the atmosphere a lot. The price of food was quite expensive, but the concourse was very spacious which was good.
6. Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Getting away from the stadium is very easy although we did follow the coaches that had a police escort! Once through the town centre it was very quick with hardly any traffic at all
7. Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
Had a fantastic day/evening in Doncaster, probably due to the pool winning!, will be going again and would give an overall rating of 8/10.
Doncaster Rovers v Notts County
FA Cup 3rd Round
Saturday, January 7th 2012, 3pm
Steven Mills (Notts County fan)
1. Why you were looking forward to going to the ground?
I’ve not been to Doncaster before, and the reviews on this website made it sound as if it would be a good trip. The tickets were at reduced prices (just a tenner for adults) and Notts have developed a good record in the FA cup over the last few years, with victories at Sunderland and Wigan as well as the draw with Manchester City in the 4th round in 2011.
2. How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
I travelled up by car with a friend, and finding the ground was easy enough, as the floodlights are very distinctive, and the area around the ground isn’t very built up. We found a car park being operated out of an industrial estate courtyard which only cost £3. There was also some on-street parking, but that had all been taken by the time we arrived at 2.15pm. From there it was an easy 5 minute stroll to the away end, which has a separate ticket office marked ‘Soccer Centre’.
3. What you did before the game pub/chippy…. home fans friendly?
We had to go and buy our tickets, and with a bumper crowd expected in the away end, we didn’t want to run the risk of having to sit in the home area. The stewards outside the turnstiles were helpful and more than willing to have a joke with the away fans, as were the home fans we encountered, who mostly seemed to be families. I heard after the game that a Beefeater pub near the ground had been ‘taken over’ by Notts fans, so there certainly are places to drink in the vicinity.
4. What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the ground?
As I said, the Keepmoat has some distinctive floodlights, but aside from that, it’s just another new bowl-style ground, with little character to speak of. It didn’t help that the end opposite the away fans was closed, presumably to help the smallish home crowd create more of an atmosphere. Because the stadium is fully enclosed, it kept the wind off, which meant it wasn’t too cold, and unless you happen to be in the first few rows of seats, you should be safe from any rain too.
5. Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Notts put up a performance at odds with the form book, looking dominant in all areas despite a brand new central defensive partnership and the fact our influential defensive midfielder Gavin Mahon was out injured. Doncaster didn’t look up for the fight, and perhaps losing the in-form Billy Sharp, who was about to transfer out of South Yorkshire and didn’t want to be cup-tied, didn't help. The Doncaster singers were directly to our left in the North West corner, and they had a drum that kept going until Notts scored a second goal from the penalty spot midway through the second half.
At about 85 minutes, most of the Doncaster support seemed to give up and go home. I’ve never seen a ground empty quicker of home fans than the Keepmoat, and by the time the final whistle blew the 2m917 Notts fans must have outnumbered the remaining Doncaster faithful.
At half time I went in search of a Chicken Balti pie, which, along with most of the other food, was priced at £3. However they seemed to have some sort of food shortage, and by the time I got to the front of the queue, I had to settle for a meat and potato pie, which was admittedly delicious. There are also separate bars just selling lager (Carlsberg) at £3 a bottle. The toilets were clean and as you would expect from a new ground.
6. Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
As most of the Donny fans had already cleared off well before the end, it was easy enough to get away. The supporter’s coaches were picking up right outside the away end, though I’m not sure how quickly they got away, as the roads around the stadium were clogged up for quite some time. We stopped at one of the abundant burger vans on the way back to the car, but it still took quite a while to get away from the area around the Stadium, with traffic stretching all the way to the A1(M).
7. Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
All in all, I enjoyed the trip to Doncaster, and it’s one that I’d happily make again, something that looks quite likely as Donny look like going down to League One this season. The only blemish on the day were the traffic problems, but it only cost us half an hour or so, and we were back in Nottingham by half 6.
Doncaster Rovers v Middlesbrough
Championship League
Tuesday, November 1st 2011, 7.45pm
Conor Askins (Middlesbrough fan)
1. Why you were looking forward to going to the ground (or not as the case may be):
I was looking forward going to the ground as Boro had the 2nd best away record in the Championship and our away following had been excellent so far. With Doncaster only being two hours travelling time away, we were likely to fill the allocation even though it was on a Tuesday night. Also the week before we'd been well beaten by a better side- in Southampton- and the response at Doncaster was going to test our promotion credentials, so me, my father and a couple of his mates we're hoping to bring three points back to Teesside.
2. How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
We parked at a Premier Inn where my dads' mate was staying and it was free, so that was a bonus. Also we were told that there was a bus, that takes you directly to the Keepmoat and was only £1.30 for a return.
3. What you did before the game pub/chippy…. home fans friendly?
Well before the game we arrived at the Premier Inn at around 6. We had a few drinks in their bar, where there was some other Boro fans too. We caught the bus outside the hotel and got to the stadium at 7:30pm A home fan told us where the away end and showed us where to go, which was helpful of him.
4. What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the ground?
My first impression of the stadium was that it looked modern. It also was fully enclosed, which made it stand out more than some other newer stadiums that I've recently visited. The away end was fantastic. We had a great view and also the concourse even had bar stools, which I hadn't seen before at a ground. However the stadium did look a bit on the small side as all the stands were only one tier.
5. Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, toilets etc..
The game was very emotional as Billy Sharp (Doncaster's top scorer and captain) had just tragically lost his son, so there was a minutes applause before the game had kicked off and the 3,000 Boro fans joined in.
The game itself was excellent. Doncaster actually started quite well and had a few good chances early on. But it was like a story come true, the way Billy Sharp scored an outstanding goal in front of the Boro fans on 14 minutes and even we applauded as a sign of respect. But the table doesn't lie and Boro came back strong as Barry Robson ran for 40 yards before smashing home a deserved equalizer and sent the Boro fans into raptures. Then after they sustained our pressure we then had a fast flowing move with super Marvin Emnes finishing it off, 2-1 at half time.
The 2nd half was end to end again, but with Boro now attacking towards the away endm where the Teesside faithful were generating a brilliant atmosphere. The acoustics were great and the stewards were friendly as well.
Then Boro were awarded a penalty on 66 minutes and the man of the match- Barry Robson- blasted the ball into the roof of the net, to put the game beyond Doncaster and it finished 3-1. Credit to the Donny fans, with most of them staying for the final whistle and even Billy Sharp clapped us off. The atmosphere throughout and especially in the second half was amazing and the Donny fans had a drum which created some noise but most came from the Boro fans.
6. Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
We got the bus with a few other Boro fans with no problem at all and got back to the Premier Inn quickly, so we had one more drink in there and then drove back to Teesside happy as Larry.
7. Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
Overall it was an away day to remember as we answered our critics after getting beaten a few days before and the 3-1 score line could've easily been 5 or 6 on another day, but happy with the win and Doncaster should be praised for putting in a brave performance and for passing the ball and not just blasting it up the pitch. Any loyal fans should give the Keepmoat a try!
Doncaster Rovers v Cardiff City
Championship League
Saturday, April 9th 2011, 3pm
Adam Tibbs (Cardiff City)
1. Why you were looking forward to going to the ground (or not as the case may be):
I was looking forward to visiting the Keepmoat Stadium because it was it was a new ground that I had never visited before. Plus Cardiff City were chasing automatic promotion to the Premier League and I thought we should easily be able to pick up 3 points against a relegation threatened and a largely inconsistent Doncaster side who we easily thrashed 4-0 at home in August.
2. How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
As I went by supporters coach all of this was not really applicable but the coaches drop you off behind some Astroturf pitches on a gravel 'car park' and you can just walk to the ground from there.
3. What you did before the game pub/chippy…. home fans friendly?
I went to a pub before the game, which was just around the corner from the ground by a hotel. The pub was full of fellow Cardiff City supporters. As we then went towards the stadium to look for a burger van or something along those lines we stopped to watch our team coach arrive and had a look around the club shop, where I noticed that some of the Doncaster Rovers shirts were a lot cheaper than our own. I found the home fans to be the friendliest of any away trip I have ever been to, their fans were well behaved and the majority of them were families.
4. What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the ground?
The ground looks fairly uniform, one tier all the way around and oddly angled floodlights, but i was very impressed by the views of the pitch and the fact that the stewards just told us to 'sit' anywhere we wanted. I can't comment on leg room because its very rare that Cardiff fans sit down at an away game! The concourse under the ground was modern and even had some bar style stools in there for people to sit and have a chat with mates before the game, the ground was impressing me more by the minute.
5. Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, toilets etc..
The game itself was a fantastic game to watch with chances end to end, but even when your going for automatic promotion as I found out going to a team fighting against relegation is never easy and Doncaster dominated the early part of the game missing 2 or 3 good chances in the opening exchanges, but Cardiff on our first attack on 14 minutes took the lead with a goal from Chris Burke.
I went down to the toilets at the break and they were what you would expect from a modern grounds toilets.
As I go back out for the second half Doncaster dominated play even more and finally on 78 minutes got their goal and a well deserved goal at that from James Coppenger, and in the last 10 minutes Cardiff needing a win to go into the automatic promotion places threw everything bar the kitchen sink at Doncaster and the Cardiff fans thought we had blown it, on 90 minutes our Manager brings on Lee Naylor (a player who had struggled throughout the season to cope at this level of football) and Jason Koumas (A player who had his mind elsewhere apparently and hadn't featured for us since November) so we thought that was game over.
On 90+1 minutes we get a free kick about 20 yards out and with that Jason Koumas decides he wants to take the free kick, so with his first touch of a football since November, he perfectly curls the ball into the top right hand corner of the goal (from where the away fans were), and the Cardiff fans celebrated the hardest I've ever seen any set of supporters celebrate in my life, and then whilst we were still celebrating, Koumas with his second touch of the ball since November taps it in to the open Doncaster net after having the ball put on a plate for him by Craig Bellamy, after the 3rd goal went in, there was a mass exodus from the home supporters as they queued to leave the ground on the steps, the final whistle blew and Cardiff City who had been outplayed, out-muscled and had been Dominated for 75% of the game won 3-1.
The atmosphere from the away fans was terrific and there is a drummer in the home singing section to boost the atmosphere but because the home fans singing section is the other side of the ground to the away supporters you can't really hear the home support which is a shame because you could tell that they were singing their hearts out and you could see them with their arms raised in chanting, but at the time we found it quite comical at the same time that we couldn't hear them singing but could see them dancing to the song that they were singing.
6. Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
we got let out of the ground and went straight onto our coaches with no problems at all, straght outside the away end are the Astroturf pitches and the coaches are behind there.
7. Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
The scoreline flattered us a lot with us winning 3-1 when I felt Doncaster deserved to get something from the game and another day could have easily won it. but Doncaster is a fantastic day out for any football fan and i would thoroughly recommend this trip.This trip would also be ideal for parents taking their children on their first away game because of the family feel you get around the place in Doncaster and in and around the Keepmoat stadium.
It is the best away trip I have ever been on and I will recommended it to anyone.
Doncaster Rovers v Barnsley
Championship League
Tuesday, January 25th 2011, 7.45pm
James Cole (Barnsley fan)
1. Why you were looking forward to going to the ground (or not as the case may be):
It's a local away game and both sets of fans tend to look forward to this fixture, (but not as much as the local derbies vs. the Sheffield clubs or Rotherham). There is normally a good atmosphere, as it is more of a friendly rivalry than one filled with hatred. Also we had beaten Rovers 3 times out of 4 since their return to the Championship and had won on our last 2 visits to the Keepmoat without even conceding a goal. So I was looking forward to hopefully carrying on our dominance over them.
2. How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Went on the official club coaches and the ground is very easy is to find from the motorway.
3. What you did before the game pub/chippy…. home fans friendly?
The coach didn't arrive until 7pm so after a quick walk around and look in the club shop we headed straight into the stadium. We had a quick chat with some Rovers fans and as usual, it was all friendly natured, and good humored banter.
4. What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the ground?
Having been to the Keepmoat before I knew exactly what to expect – a bland boring bowl stadium with no character and is possibly the most boring football ground I've ever seen (bring back Belle Vue!)
5. Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, toilets etc..
The first half was forgettable with both sides not really doing anything. But in the second half, two goals from new signing Danny Haynes gave Barnsley a two nil win and three points over Donny. It was also another victory without conceding a goal at the Keepmoat.
Stewards were helpful and let the Barnsley supporters do pretty much what they wanted (stand, sing etc..). The atmosphere was good with the usual chants back and forth from the home and away supporters, but as soon as Barnsley scored the home support went quiet and by the end of the game there was only a handful of Donny fans left in the ground!
6. Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Got stuck in a bit of traffic but only for about 10 minutes then straight on the motorway back to Barnsley and was home within 30 minutes of the game finishing.
7. Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
Another enjoyable away day at Doncaster, not sure what it would be like in a non-local derby but Rovers is a small, friendly club and is a nice relaxed away day and I would definitely recommend it.