BRISTOL ROVERS PLAYER RATINGS
JAMES BELSHAW - 7
Apart from a mishit clearance early in the first half, he was dominant in between the sticks. Stood no chance with Kane Hemmings’ fierce strike which gave Tranmere the lead. Made a strong save from Elliot Nevitt and commanded his box well for the rest of the game.
LUCA HOOLE - 8
Went on several marauding runs into Tranmere territory in the first half, combining well with Harry Anderson to form some dangerous attacks for the Gas. Reacted quickest to the second ball with a header which allowed Elliot Anderson to equalise.
CONNOR TAYLOR - 6
Dealt with Hemmings’ physical dominance very well in the first half. A rare mistake for the hosts’ goal as he was caught out by the flight of the ball, which Kane Hemmings reached and lashed home. Gave Tranmere a chance to score late on when he was penalised for a handball, but Hemmings sent the free-kick over.
JAMES CONNOLLY - 7
Tidy in possession, but was caught out similarly to Taylor with the long ball that led to Tranmere’s goal. Defended well for the remaining minutes as Tranmere attempted to edge back in front.
TREVOR CLARKE - 7
He was allowed plenty of time and space to join attacks in the first half, managing to get into several dangerous crossing positions with one drilled delivery just needing a touch to go in. Was replaced by Josh Grant on the hour-mark.
PAUL COUTTS - 8
Took the sting out of a number of Tranmere’s pressure waves, using his body and composure to keep Rovers in possession. Ensured Rovers moved with real pace in the second half when searching for a goal.
HARRY ANDERSON - 7
Linked up well with Hoole on the right before he was moved out to the left following Leon Clarke’s arrival. Had more joy in attacking phases thereafter with Peter Clarke’s strong sliding challenge stopping him inches from goal.
ELLIOT ANDERSON - 8
The Newcastle loanee saw plenty of the ball and was at his usual bullish best, providing many moments of concern for Tranmere. Brought the Gas back on terms with a fine finish inside the box.
SAM FINLEY - 8
Rovers’ best player in the first half with several neat flicks and turns to escape Tranmere pressure. At times, though, like others, his passing radar was off. Was more his bustling-self in the second half, charging forward when Rovers were in search of an equaliser
SAM NICHOLSON - 7
tarted the game positively, giving Josh Dacres-Cogley a challenging opening 15 minutes, but his composure in the final third was off for much of the game.
AARON COLLINS - 6
Ran the channels well and didn’t give Nathaniel Knight-Percival or Peter Clarke any time on the ball when the hosts were looking to start attacks from defence but he did not see much of the ball.
SUBSTITUTES
JOSH GRANT (for T Clarke, 60 mins) 6
Made his first appearance in two months and helped move Rovers attacks along at left-back.Made a vital block from a corner to deny Tranmere retaking the lead.
LEON CLARKE (for Sam Nicholson, 60 mins) - 6
Gave Rovers a focal point to play off . Saw an effort calmly saved by Joe Murphy.
NOT USED: Jed Ward, Nick Anderton, Glenn Whelan, Luke Thomas, Harvey Saunders.
TRANMERE: Joe Murphy, Josh DacresCogley, Peter Clarke, Nathaniel KnightPercival, Christopher Merrie, Callum McManaman (Sam Foley, 70 mins), Lee O’Connor, Lewis Warrington, Joshua Hawkes (Jay Spearing, 76 mins), Kane Hemmigs, Elliott Nevitt.
NOT USED: Charlie Jolley, Nicky Maynard, Kyle Hayde, Ross Doohan.