Player Ratings: Luton Town 1-0 Doncaster Rovers

Matt Bloomfield’s Luton Town side returned to winning ways with a 1-0 victory over Doncaster Rovers, quieting growing nice around his position as manager.

Lamine Fanne was among the most impressive performers. Photo Credit: Luton Town FC

The Hatters took the lead on 40 minutes thanks to a header from captain Kal Naismith, his first goal since returning to the club from Bristol City. Ian Lawlor denied Nahki Wells from doubling the lead when he kept the striker out from the penalty spot shortly after.

A change in defensive shape was greeted positively, with many, including us at Oak Road Hatter calling for a change to a back four. Luton lined up with a defensive line of Makosso, Andersen, Mengi and Naismith and they proved a solid defensive unit, digging in during the second half to keep a clean sheet, whilst their size was a constant threat from set pieces.

Matt Bloomfield’s second half substitutes helped see out the game, with Joe Gbode impressing in particular with effective hold-up play and constant running, whilst a return to the pitch for Nakamba was among the most loudly celebrated moments of the day.

The win moves Luton up one place in League One and offers positive momentum going into key away fixtures against Blackpool and Stevenage.

Player Ratings:

Josh Keeley - 7

The young goalkeeper commanded his area and made a key save to keep Luke Molyneux out in the second half.

Christ Makosso - 7

Impressed playing out of position at right back, with mobility and defensive composure. Lost the ball a couple of times through missed touches.

Mads Andersen - 7

Solid throughout the game, confident in possession. Will be hard to displace if he stays fit.

Teden Mengi - 8

Imperious in defence, aggressive in challenges and looked fit and mobile. Showed leadership in his strongest defensive performance in a long time.

Kal Naismith - 8

Led by example and offered natural width on the left. Superb technique on his header for the goal.

Kal Naismith wheels away after scoring. Photo Credit: Luton Town FC

Shayden Morris - 7

Very impressive performance in his first league start. Caused problems out wide with electric pace that will trouble a lot of defenders in League One.

Lamine Fanne - 8

Comfortably Fanne’s best performance in a Luton shirt. Strong on the ball and incredibly dynamic. Not afraid to get stuck in and was given a standing ovation when he was subbed.

George Saville - 7

Another good performance from Saville who is becoming the key man in midfield for Luton. His defensive work rate gives other players freedom to get forward.

Millenic Alli - 6

Had an off day and struggled to make an impression. Seemed to lack confidence with the ball, turning back during moments he usually tries to beat a defender.

Zack Nelson - 7

A positive performance from the academy graduate, who seemed to benefit from having more attacking options in wide areas to connect with.

Nahki Wells - 6

Worked very hard off the ball to stretch the Doncaster defence and won the penalty with a clever run. Poor penalty which did not challenge Lawlor.

Subs

Gideon Kodua - 6

Offered defensive cover out wide when he came on for Morris. Struggled to make an impact going forward.

Marvellous Nakamba - 6

Broke up play effectively and provided a stable base in front of the defence.

Joe Gbode - 7

Joe Gbode was positive off the bench. Photo Credit: Luton Town FC

Impressive off the bench with strong hold-up play and relentless running in behind to get Luton out of their own half.

Cohen Bramall - 7

Provided pace out wide, along with defensive cover to help out late in the game.

Jake Richards - N/A