The majority of the ground work was started immediately after the cup final, so, although the pitch had undergone some work, it wasn't complete until after the final.

IIRC, the 'outside' pitch is the same size as the main pitch.

In reading your concerns and points raised about the semi-final being held at the Doncaster Athletics Stadium, I thought it would be remiss of me not to make a general statement covering those aspects.

There is no way we can reserve seats for season pass holders unfortunately, it's simply not practical due to many constrains. A number of seats will therefore be reserved for directors of both clubs, the press and disabled people. The rest of the seats will be there to use on a first come, first served basis.

As stated in my original post announcing the alternative venue, I must stress that the club has explored every possible avenue to ensure the game is to be played in Doncaster and as close to the Keepmoat as possible. Ray Green deserves a lot of credit for the hard work he's put in this week to get this game played within a stones throw of the main pitch.

Ray has held detailed discussions with Keepmoat Stadium and Castle Park representatives but both pitches are unavailable next weekend. The athletics stadium have their own commitments that same weekend and that's why the game is to be played on Friday night. The club would like to thank Kev Lincoln and his club once again for helping us out.

It wasn't as simple as some may think to switch to a venue we're unfamiliar with and the RFL had to physically come out and pass the venue 'fit for purpose'. We still have a lot of work to do before the game to ensure that everything runs as smooth as possible on the night.

I can only imagine the backlash we'd have received if we'd have conceded home advantage and played at Don Valley, which is also predominantly an athletics stadium.

I would like to thank those who have welcomed/accepted the change of venue albeit in circumstances which are totally out of our hands of which we wholeheartedly apologise for the inconvenience it has caused.

I hope you will all be able to make the game and support the lads on to another cup final (hopefully).

Mark - COYD

Not a problem.

Well done the Club,

Damned if you do damned if you don't sometimes.

We have a game at home - as near as damn it.
We have not conceded to play away.
Castle Park for all the people who want to move there would have had same issue as keepmoat.

Many clubs at this level are simply guests in somebody elses stadium - so it is what it is...I for one would rather be a guest in the Keepmoat than owner of Mount Pleasant (No offence).

As for away games, yes it does disrupt following, however we have just celebrated our best run of form all season - away from home...food for thought.

I dare say this will be shouted down, but the Club and Donsnews should be applauded for their efforts.
I will be there with my nephew as always,

COYD's

We have a club, a team and a chance to make it to a final? Happy Days for me.

As I originally said, if the tie was played any time after Friday I couldn't go.
So the fates that be have conspired to bring this all about for the Friday.
Such is my power ... be warned!
lol

Well done to all at the club for making the best of a difficult situation and thanks to Mark for keeping up to speed on everything.

Sorting the logistics for something like this must have been a complete pain the backside.

I suspect there could be quite a good atmosphere for the game.

Let's hope for a good match and a good result.

And if it rains and we can't get in the stand, are we allowed to take in brollies ... unlike the Keepmoat.

Soaked to the skin it would be in no time.

Chunkster can you show this to the players as a motivation for Friday night. This is a direct quote that has just come from a Sheffield Eagles Director:

"You will not beat us on Friday".

Also I just heard Mark Aston say:

"My dad is bigger than all the Dons players dads".

Which seems unlikely as he is 4'2''

His side sits proudly on top of the division with over twice as many points as ours.
They play attractive rugby with at least three gifted furriners(sic).
I think he can say pretty much what he likes.
Unfortunately.

Gone a bit quiet.
Cup games are different to league games.
Anybody think we will win?

If im honest, not really expecting one, but as with the fev game, you never know.