We’re only going to get better now, says Garner

BEN Garner is certain Bristol Rovers’ win over Northampton Town is just the beginning for his young side.

The Pirates came on strong in the second half and seized the points with goals from Brandon Hanlan and Jack Baldwin to earn their first victory of the season.

Boss Garner has faced increased criticism from fans after a five-game winless run to start the campaign, but he believes that the win over the ten-man Cobblers, who had former Rovers defender Joe Martin sent off on the hour, will give his side a much-needed confidence boost.

“We played well,” Garner said. “Tactically we were excellent, we know the problems they pose and how strong and organised they are and I thought we dealt with that well.

“My only real criticism for the game was that we only scored two, it could have been a lot more.

“I think that win gives more confidence than I ever could to the get better. He’s got a fantastic workrate, great ability and he’s very, very coachable and only wants to learn.”

Garner was also full of praise for Baldwin and Tutonda, who made their League debuts for the club.

The manager continued: “He’s (Baldwin) trained like a beast, he’s been outstanding in training, waiting for that opportunity, he took it today, so I’m really pleased with him.

“David is one of the humblest players I’ve ever met, great strength, very comfortable on the ball and defended very well today. For a full League debut for the club it doesn’t get much better than that.”

Rovers, bottom of the table at the start of the day, climbed all the way up to 15th as a result of their win.