Northampton Town disappointing loss on the homecoming of fans

Doncaster Rovers striker Tyreece John-Jules and defender Joe Wright spoilt the triumphant return of Northampton Town fans with a comfortable 2-0 victory against ten-man Northampton Town in League One.

The Cobblers had a massive mountain to climb after midfielder Shaun McWilliams was shown a straight red card by referee Graham Salisbury.

McWilliams went in for a fifty-fifty challenge with his studs high up on defender Andy Butler.

After that, Doncaster proceeded to dominate possession, however, creating clear cut chances were few and thin. In the 36th minute, they were handed the opening goal. Northampton winger Mark Marshall lost possession in his own half and John-Jules on loan from Arsenal capitalised and chipped goalkeeper Steve Arnold. 

Northampton Town struggled to create any sort of clear cut chances throughout the ninety minutes. Striker Harry Smith had long-range efforts saved by goalkeeper Joe Lumley. The only threat they had was on set pieces when they flooded Doncaster’s box with their aerial threats.

Three minutes before the hour mark, Doncaster doubled their tally through Joe Wright, who headed the ball into the back of the net after Reece James’ cross to put the Rovers firmly in control.

They had an opportunity to make it 3-0 with ten minutes to go. A penalty was awarded after a Doncaster after Michael Harrimanhandled the ball with his hand. Ben Whiteman stepped up and had this penalty saved by Arnold.  

Northampton Town will now travel to Exeter City as they face the Grecians in the second round of the Papa John’s Trophy. Doncaster Rovers have some time to rest as they host Gillingham next weekend.

This game was mainly about fans finally returning back to watch professional league matches. Northamptonshire Covid-19 cases increased massively during the pandemic in comparison to the start of the first lockdown.

So, for Northampton Town to be allowed to bring in one thousand fans was great to see.

Staff at the club handled the occasion with great consideration. Fans and the media lined up socially distanced to get their temperature checked with hand sanitiser available.

In the stadium, it was a one-way system to protect everyone and still keeping that two-metre distance. When the full-time whistle was blown, fans were let out at different times to avoid the rush.

To conclude, this was an indicator that fans can be safely allowed into stadiums. Albeit with a lesser capacity than usual, Northampton Town showed the way for other areas in tier three how they can easily let fans in safely.

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