‘Outstanding’ - Joey Barton’s post-match on Bristol Rovers’ victory v Wigan

Bristol Rovers boss Joey Barton believes his side were ‘outstanding’ in the Gas’ first home league victory of the season.

Goals from Luke Thomas, Jack Hunt, Aaron Collins and John Marquis saw off Wigan, in what was a dominate display from the home side.

The victory moved Rovers up to 12th in the league table, meanwhile Wigan remain the relegation zone, after having eight points deducted before the season commenced.

“Today was the first time I think they really clicked as a team, so credit to the lads I thought they were outstanding,” said Barton.

“The shift that they did without the ball, the shape that they took, the discipline to pick and choose when went to press them.”

The victory is the Gas’ first league win at the Mem since April and the first time they have managed to put four past a team in the league since they beat Cheltenham 4-1 back in October last year.

With three wins in the last four games in all competitions, Barton was full of praise for his team after the final whistle.

“We were full value for our 4-1 win today, we’ve played a good team, Sean’s done a great job there in the turmoil of an eight point deduction and they were coming in with a good bit of form.

“I’m just buzzing that all the Gasheads that filled the stadium today have gone away with a with a real spring in the step for the rest of the weekend.”

With a trip to Peterborough next weekend, the Gas will feel that they can head to Cambridgeshire and get a result.

With goals spread out across the team and plenty of individuals putting in great performances, Rovers fans will feel that the team have turned around what was a tough start to the season.

“We were absolutely full value and I wouldn’t want to be the one picking the man the match,” said Barton.

“In the last two league games you’ve seen lots of progression from individuals... it was a thoroughly professional performance.

“Two wins on the spin back-to-back and it sets us up nicely for a tough way game at Johnson Clarke-Harris’ Peterborough.”