New Era Begins

Rovers visited Eynsham Park to begin their fifth consecutive campaign in the Southern League. This year, Rovers will be heading south more than north due to the change in divisional allocations.

Scott Dash was absent from the touchline for the match, so assistant Mark Royal took the reigns for the afternoon. There were 6 debutants for Rovers, as Dallas, Meki, Davis, Naylor, Hayford and Hamilton all were given starts. Reserve team regulars Hudson and Ronayne were also rewarded with starts.

The first half an hour was fairly even in terms of possession, however the hosts created most of the opportunities. Hudson making a couple of good saves in the Rovers net.

The Millers then took the lead on the 39th minute, from a corner a back post header was headed across goal for Callum Crooke to tap in from a yard out.

Things went from bad to worse for Rovers three minutes later as Harry Stratton was shown a straight red for what the referee deemed a dangerous tackle.

However, it was soon 10v10 as Roger James picked up a red card for kicking out at Dada, following a push from the Kempston left back.

The second half had an obvious slower tempo, with a lot more time on the ball and space appearing. Rovers were unable to test the North Leigh net and find that important equaliser.

Rovers have a quick turnaround as we face Welwyn Garden City at Hillgrounds this Tuesday, 19:45 KO.