STRIKER SHOW BOOSTS CLARKE
DARRELL Clarke insists that Bristol Rovers’ form since Matty Taylor’s controversial cross-city switch has proved that his side will never be a one-man team.
On the final day of the January transfer window, 27-year-old frontman Taylor became the first player to move directly from Rovers to Bristol City for 30 years.
Taylor had notched 19 goals for Clarke’s men at the time of his departure but rather than wilt, the Pirates have hit the goal trail in his absence.
The in-form Billy Bodin, 25, has picked up the lion’s share of the goalscoring slack while fellow strikers Rory Gaffney, 27, and Ellis Harrison, 23, have also contributed to leave Rovers chasing the play-offs.
“There was a big thing made when we lost Matty Taylor but, for me, look at the response – it’s been excellent,” said Rovers boss Clarke.
“It’s not about who is scoring the goals – it’s about the team ethic and the group.
“I’m sure my strikers will be disappointed that they haven’t taken more of their chances but their work-rates have been absolutely outstanding and it’s a team game, this sport.
“It’s a testament to the group how they have responded and it’s certainly a testament to the fact we will never be a one-man team.”