Town manager Mark Kennedy admitted Doncaster Rovers boss Grant McCann has done ‘an amazing job’ at the League Two club.
The South Yorkshire club had a tough first half of the campaign last season but turned things around in 2024, losing just once in 19 games before crashing out on penalties against Crewe in the play-offs.
They have carried over their momentum from last season and currently sit in second place, just one point behind Port Vale at the top.
Reflecting on their incredible run and good form this season, the Irishman praised their work in the league.
“I think Grant’s [McCann] done an amazing job there. I think in February last year, they might have been somewhere near the bottom four if not in it.
“To get to the playoffs and continue the job he’s done is great.
“I mean Grant’s track record as a coach is phenomenal anyway,” he added.
Doncaster are ranked top with touches in the opposition box and fourth with shots per game, which shows their willingness to attack and create chances.
Rovers’ style of play is also something Kennedy approved, with them playing good football for as long as he can remember.
“First and foremost, they have an outstanding coach, brilliant club, lovely style and it’s always been the same brand for as long as I can remember; I’ve been around a long time.
“It’s a team that’s gonna try and win the game and it should be a really good game of football, so we’re looking forward to it.”
McCann’s side is very quick with transitioning play and enjoys hitting teams on the counterattack, but Robin’s boss believes his team are in a good position when it comes to defending transitions and he continued previewing the tactical test between the two sides.
He said: “We’re one of the best teams in the league on defending transitions, so I think we both want to dominate the ball and play football.
“They are outstanding on transitions, there’s no doubt about that and yet we’ve been one of the best teams in the league on defending transitions.
“When you dominate the ball, it’s hard for the opposition to have opportunities to transition.
“It’s something we’re very aware with them, particularly with their front three and the support players and when you look at the DNA, the goal against Crewe is a fine example.
“They’re a very good footballing side as well so it’s gonna be a really tough game, but a really good game.”
