Bristol Rovers got their first win of the season in a game that saw Tranmere Rovers reduced to nine men.

Manager Graham Coughlan opted to start with a 5-3-2 formation which saw Tony Craig recalled in the centre of defence alongside Alfie Kilgour and Tom Davies. The formation seemed to suit Rovers and especially the two wing back Luke Leahy on the left on Josh Hare on the Right, it was across from Hare that nearly saw Rovers take the lead but Smith headed wide from 10 yards out.

Rovers did take the lead on 38 minutes, again Josh Hare was the provider with an excellent cross with Clarke-Harris headed home meaning Rovers deservedly took the lead at the break. Just three minutes after the restart there was a moment of madness from winger Blackett-Taylor who pushed Ollie Clarke in the face right under the nose of referee Gavin Ward who showed a straight red.

Just 10 minutes later Tranmere was down to nine men when Banks collected a second caution for a foul on Luke Leahy. Rovers pushed for a second, Upson was his long-range effort go just over and Davies in the Tranmere goal saved well from Smith. As the game drew to a close Rovers did get their second, Tyler Smith was brought down in the box and the young striker calmly slotted home from the spot. Sub Tom Nicholls did have a chance to make it 3-0 in injury but was unable to beat davies when put clean through.

Rovers move up to 17th with the win and next face OPxford United at The Memorial Stadium which will see the return of The Snake!

Photo: Action Images

Bristol Rovers Polls