Doncaster vs Crewe Alexandra: A Historical Rivalry in English Football

Doncaster Rovers and Crewe Alexandra are two historic clubs with a long-standing rivalry in English football. Both clubs have a rich history and have played in various divisions of the English football league system. Their rivalry is often referred to as the "Roses Rivalry" due to the proximity of the two towns - Doncaster in South Yorkshire and Crewe in Cheshire - and the traditional association of Yorkshire with the white rose and Lancashire with the red rose.

Historical Background

The rivalry between Doncaster and Crewe began in the early 20th century. The two clubs first met in the FA Cup in 1923, with Crewe winning 2-0. The first league meeting between the two clubs took place in the 1923-24 season, which resulted in a 1-1 draw.

Over the years, the two clubs have competed in various divisions of the English football league system. Doncaster has spent more time in higher divisions, having played in the Championship (second tier) and the Premier League (top tier) on several occasions. Crewe, on the other hand, has mostly played in the lower divisions, including League One (third tier) and League Two (fourth tier).

Head-to-Head Record

As of the 2022-23 season, the head-to-head record between Doncaster and Crewe stands at 26 wins for Doncaster, 15 wins for Crewe, and 15 draws.

Notable Matches

Some of the most notable matches between Doncaster and Crewe include:

• 1923 FA Cup First Round: Crewe beat Doncaster 2-0 at Gresty Road.
• 1923-24 Third Division North: The first league meeting between the two clubs ended in a 1-1 draw at Belle Vue.
• 1968-69 Fourth Division: Doncaster beat Crewe 4-1 at Gresty Road, with four goals from John Ryan.
• 1990-91 Second Division: Crewe beat Doncaster 2-1 at Belle Vue, with a goal from David Platt.
• 2002-03 League One: Doncaster beat Crewe 3-1 at Belle Vue, with goals from Jason Price, Brett Angell, and Richie Foran.
• 2007-08 League One: Crewe beat Doncaster 2-1 at Gresty Road, with goals from Rob Hulse and Ajay Leitch-Smith.
• 2014-15 League One: Doncaster beat Crewe 3-0 at Gresty Road, with goals from Nathan Tyson, James Coppinger, and Harry Forrester.

Current Rivalry

The rivalry between Doncaster and Crewe remains competitive today. The two clubs are currently playing in different divisions, with Doncaster in League Two and Crewe in League One. However, they still meet in cup competitions, and their matches always attract a large crowd.

Conclusion

Doncaster Rovers and Crewe Alexandra have a long and storied rivalry that has been a part of English football for nearly a century. The two clubs have played in various divisions and have a number of memorable matches between them. The rivalry continues to be competitive today, and it is one of the most followed local derbies in English football.