Bristol Rovers player ratings v Plymouth Argyle with 7/10 saving grace

Ten-man Bristol Rovers endured a difficult night as they lost 2-0 to league leaders Plymouth Argyle at Home Park.

Antony Evans’ second yellow card in the 25th minute meant the Gas had to play the majority of the match with a man light and their rearguard was broken in the second-half. Niall Ennis scored an acrobatic effort before Macaulay Gillesphey guided a header home to secure the win.

Plymouth are now one win away from winning promotion to the Championship whilst Rovers remain in 15th, with play-off chasing Peterborough United up next.

Joey Barton’s side battled well but were limited as to what they could do attacking wise because of the numerical disadvantage but can take some satisfaction about not folding and losing by a bigger margin. Here’s how the Rovers players fared in the player ratings:

James Belshaw - 7

Rovers’ saving grace! Belshaw made several good saves and commanded his box well. Best player for Rovers on the night.

Luca Hoole (subbed off, 59) - 6

At 0-0 made several good blocks but Bali Mumba enjoyed his battle against him.

Jarell Quansah - 6

Another lesson for the young Liverpool defender. A difficult night for Rovers’ young defence.

Lewis Gibson - 6

A nervy display from the Everton loanee. He was lectured a few times by Belshaw for not keeping track of his man.

Lewis Gordon - 6

Plymouth enjoyed running against the full-backs. Gordon was caught out a few times not being close to his man.

Antony Evans - 4

Red-carded and left his teammates with work to do with two rash challenges. No complaints about the two yellow cards in what was a costly error.

Lamare Bogarde - 6

A few good moments as he tried to get his team forward but also some defensive errors.

Grant Ward - 7

Made a few good tackles and blocks in the box.

Aaron Collins (subbed off, 46) - 5

One moment of note in the first-half when he had a penalty appeal. Brought off at half-time for an unknown reason.

John Marquis - 6

A thankless task of leading the line on your own after Josh Coburn’s early departure.

Sam Finley (subbed on, 33) - 6

Came on and had one of Rovers’ best moments. Tough role.

James Gibbons (subbed on, 46) - 6

Had one of Rovers’ few efforts on goal.

Ryan Loft (subbed on, 59) - 7

Similar to Marquis, he had a tough task of having the role as a isolated striker.

James Connolly (subbed on, 59) - 7

Came on and played well with some good blocks.

Harry Anderson (subbed on, 73) - 6

Came on and nearly got Loft in for a one-on-one, but Plymouth stopped them.