Nigel Pearson’s frank view on Rotherham win and whether Tommy Conway will start against Leeds

Nigel Pearson described Bristol City’s dramatic 2-1 win over Rotherham United at the New York Stadium as ‘ugly’, and hinted at Tommy Conway’s role in Saturday’s trip to Leeds United.

The Robins took the lead against the Millers with 10 minutes to go, as substitute Conway struck a brilliant curling effort into the bottom corner.

Tyler Blackett equalised for the hosts with time running out, but six additional minutes proved just enough for the Scot to pop up in the box and finish neatly past the Rotherham goalkeeper to hand City all three points.

Until Conway’s introduction, City struggled to create anything of note in attack. In fact, neither side registered a shot on target until midway through the second period.

“It was an ugly game, it was a poor game,” Pearson said to BBC Radio Bristol. “We didn’t play with much authority or rhythm for long periods but we showed qualities that we needed, especially when we conceded a disappointing equaliser with a few minutes to go.”

The Robins conceded in the 89th minute against Stoke City last weekend which saw them go away from Ashton Gate pointless, but this time around, Conway ensured that Blackett’s strike wouldn’t mug City of all three points.

The striker’s two goals indicate that he is more than ready to return to regular action for City, following almost two months out injured.

However, City travel to Leeds on Saturday, and Pearson was keen to point out that Conway will not be rushed back into the team as a starter.

“He’s on his way to being back, he arrived tonight with two great finishes. But, for people who might be clamouring for him to start, I’m afraid they’ll be disappointed,” he said.

“He's got to be eased back in with his exposure but it’s clear that he's match fit with his sharpness. His two goals were absolute quality and that’s the difference between the sides tonight.”