Comment: This is now a true test of character - and it's time to show some bottle

By winning nine of Darren Ferguson’s first 15 games in charge, these same players proved they had the ability to more than hold their own in League One.

But now, when the novelty of a new manager has worn off and nothing is going right, they need to prove they have the bottle for a relegation scrap.

And on the back of another insipid derby display at Scunthorpe this week, at the very least they need to show some desire to roll up their sleeves and compete better at Bradford City tomorrow.

A lot was said about this team’s character when they kept on coming from behind during Ferguson’s honeymoon period and refusing to be beaten.

But a true test of character is when things start going against you - and having now gone 11 games without a win, Rovers are really being found wanting.

This group of players are unquestionably a good set of lads, and Ferguson has repeatedly stated that.

There’s no hint of a bad egg in the dressing room and the young lads that have come in from Premier League clubs are known to be genuinely enjoying life at Rovers, recent results aside.

But that could be part of the problem.

When Richie Wellens and Rob Jones departed, Rovers lost two big voices in the dressing room. One could question whether the current squad are indeed too nice.

They have certainly become far too accommodating to opposing teams and the fact they have gone behind in nine of their last ten games is nothing short of ridiculous. Doncaster might as well be starting games on -1.

Paul Keegan spoke very well after the dismal defeat at Scunthorpe, stating it was time for the players to take responsibilty and that Ferguson and his staff were giving them all the necessary tools to get the job done.

But it’s time now for the talking to be turned into actions on the pitch,

The reputation of this squad, manager and indeed the club is very much on the line right now.