Bristol Rovers have had a respectable first campaign back in League One - and whilst the season is at risk of faltering out, the main objective of survival is almost in sight.
In his first press conference of the season, Joey Barton set out a task of achieving 52 points, and they are just seven points off of that with nine games to go. The target of 52 points is what he believes will ensure another year in the third tier, and right now the Gas are 10 points clear of 21st-placed Accrington Stanley, who occupy the last relegation spot.
A good run of form from October through to December had people thinking Rovers could be an outside contender for the play-offs, but with injuries and suspensions, as well as numerous matches in which individual errors have proven costly, those ambitions have had to be put to rest. Rovers' place in the division is not yet secure but there are worse teams in the division than them, and it would have to take a real capitulation for them to be relegated now.
A tricky run of games in April, facing the likes of promotion-chasing Peterborough United, Bolton Wanderers, Plymouth Argyle and Sheffield Wednesday does make it a daunting prospect, but Rovers relish playing some of the bigger teams. A double-header against Fleetwood Town and Charlton needs to return at least four points to avoid being dragged into any relegation race.
But with just nine games remaining, we’ve been reflecting on which players have impressed, and who has to improve before the season is out. Below, our Bristol Rovers writer, Jordan Jones has ranked every first-team player out of 10 based on their impact this season.
Here’s how we scored the Gas players…
1. James Belshaw - 6
Seven clean sheets out of a possible 32 in League One, Belshaw’s had a few tricky moments, including a spell in February. He’s made a few errors, but has still saved Rovers plenty of times. Photo: Naomi Baker/Getty Images
2. James Connolly - 4
A higher level, multiple centre-back partners, and a spell out with injury has meant it’s not been plain sailing for Connolly in his first full season. He will need to improve before the seasons out as he’s one of the only contracted CB’s at the club. Photo: Pete Norton/Getty Images)
3. Lewis Gordon - 5
For someone who’s not had much experience in the EFL, Gordon’s done okay so far. He’s dealt well with some of the best wingers in League One, but there have been other games where he’s been targeted. Photo: Alex Burstow/Getty Images
4. Josh Grant - N/A
Ten minutes of action against Oxford United means we can’t even judge Grant. Hopefully he can return before the campaign is out. Photo: Naomi Baker/Getty Images