A paper thin first team squad was given the day off and in came a team with an average age of just 20 years old. City's youngest ever side for a first team game. In fairness they held their own for the most part and certainly didn't let themselves or the 2,000+ travelling fans down.

Great effort deserves great support and that's what the Tiger Nation gave them throughout. It was a credit to the club to see so many fans back such a young side for the full 90 minutes, even when they were 2-0 down to their lower league, but much more experienced hosts. Seven players made club debuts and there were six debuts in senior football. Tyler Hamilton and Dan Batty caught the eye in the first half, Greg Olly was denied by the keeper and the crossbar. James Wier also went close, forcing a save. City even had two penalty shouts turned down. Doncaster did create chances but were largely on the back foot.

HT: 0-0

Alfie May came to the home side's rescue early in the second half after Doncaster emerged in more determined mood. Rovers made it two nil shortly afterwards from a Tommy Rowe effort drilled into the bottom corner. City stuck to the task but it was Doncaster who looked most threatening, Will Mannion kept the score respectable and Greg Leur missed a golden opportunity to reduce the difference. However, it was a night belonging to the youngsters in City's depleted squad. Beaten they may have been but they were a credit to the club and the fans recognised that with superb support throughout. It's clear things need to improve at the squad's sharp end but this crop of kids at least offers optimism for the future.

Doncaster Rovers: Marko Marosi, Matty Blair, Craig Alcock, Joe Wright, Danny Andrew, Ben Whiteman, Rodney Kongolo (Niall Mason 84), Tommy Rowe (Tyler Garratt 74), Issam Ben Khemis, John Marquis (Andy Williams 60), Alfie May.

Subs Not Used: Ian Lawlor, Alfie Beestin, Andy Butler, Liam Mandeville.

Hull City: Will Mannion, Brian Lenihan, Josh Clackstone, Robbie McKenzie, Brandon Fleming (Ellis Barkworth 68), Will Annan, James Weir, Dan Batty, Tyler Hamilton (Ben Hinchliffe 76), Greg Olley, Greg Luer.

Subs Not Used: Charlie Andrew, Lewis Ritson, Tom Dyson, Liam Edwards, James Yates.

Referee: Mr E. Ilderton.

Attendance: 7,139 (2,179 Visiting Supporters).