Doncaster Rovers v Bristol Rovers - Tom Anderson and Joe Wright offer case for defence

Early days in the season it may be, but the central defensive duo are providing a firm and sure foundation for Rovers, with the platform laid for their flair players further forward to express themselves.

Anderson has been one of the unheralded League One success stories of the past year or so and after some injury problems, Wright is now on a sound footing.

Their partnership looked an assured one and just as they are starting to click on the pitch, they are good friends off it.

Anderson said: “On the pitch, we are both very similar and are loud and always talking and trying to get people through the game. Off the pitch, Joe is a bit of a character, he won’t mind me saying that. He is always involved with the banter.

“But you need characters like him and we have got players like that in the squad who love a laugh which is massive for camaraderie and togetherness in the squad.

“We are good friends and that is a good thing about this squad. The togetherness can make a massive difference and we all get on well. There is a willingness to run together, win headers and block shots and run forward when we have got the ball and have shots together.”

Should Anderson and Wright require any defensive pointers, the presence of manager Darren Moore on the training ground on a daily basis at Cantley Park is something which both will be grateful for.

A rock-solid centre-back in a long and illustrious career, Moore’s input has been integral for Anderson and Wright, with the former certainly grateful for working alongside him at close quarters.

Anderson commented: “He (Moore) is a massive influence. He had an unbelievable career with promotions to the Premier League and if he tells you something, you listen as he has been there and done it. We have to take it on board and into games.”

Last six games: Doncaster WWLDDW; Bristol R LWLDDL

Referee: T Kettle (Rutland).

Last time: Doncaster 2 Bristol R 0, October 19, 2019; League One.

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James Mitchinson