Leyton Orient's next opponents, Doncaster Rovers, are reeling from a heavy FA Cup exit and internal strife ahead of Saturday's League One meeting. Manager Grant McCann admitted chants from his own fans calling for his dismissal "really hurt" after a 3-0 first-round defeat at National League North side Kidderminster Harriers.

It was Doncaster's earliest FA Cup exit since 2022 and the first time they have fallen at the first hurdle under McCann. Nearly 700 travelling supporters witnessed the comprehensive loss, which came just seven days after a 6-1 league defeat to MK Dons. McCann described the performance as deserving of defeat and acknowledged the right of fans to voice their opinions after investing time and money.

McCann's emotional admission

"It really hurts. When fans are singing you're getting sacking in the morning and that the players aren’t fit to wear the shirt," McCann said. He stressed he would not shy away from the situation, emphasizing the need for unity and mental strength during a difficult period. "The fans are entitled to their opinions," he added.

McCann confirmed he held clear-the-air talks with his squad following the defeat. He stated the players were as disappointed as anyone and that the responsibility for the performance lay with him. The manager also highlighted the club's injury issues, noting several key players were unavailable for the cup tie.

The result leaves Doncaster 20th in the League One table, setting the stage for a key fixture for 14th-placed Leyton Orient. Orient have 17 points from 13 games and are in improved form, with three wins in their last five matches. Their most recent outing was a 5-1 victory over Harborough Town in the FA Cup, featuring goals from Armando Dobra, Aaron Connolly, Idris El Mizouni and Tony Springett.

Orient will travel to the Eco-Power Stadium looking to avenge a 3-0 defeat in the last meeting between the sides in January. The full fixtures list shows this as a key opportunity to climb the standings. The match kicks off on Saturday, 14 November.

Doncaster captain Tommy Rowe appealed for patience from the fanbase, acknowledging the team's results have not been good enough. He vowed the players would work to turn the situation around starting with the weekend's league game.

Background and full detail: Doncaster Free Press