‘Defensively, a horror show’ - Bristol Rovers reaction after being hit for six by Lincoln City

Jack Diamond’s hattrick, along with a Ben House double and Matthew Virtue’s strike, consigned Bristol Rovers to yet another defeat in League One.

Aaron Collins continued his fine form with a brace and a late Ryan Loft goal were only consolations against a rampant Lincoln City side that ran out as 6-3 winners at the Memorial Stadium.

The main talking point of the game was Joey Barton’s choice to include Glenn Whelan in his defence, alongside full-backs Lewis Gordon and Luca Hoole.

The 38-year old-was preferred to centre back Alfie Kilgour, whose red card on Tuesday was rescinded however Kilgour was only named amongst the Rovers substitutes.

Rovers fan Charlotte spoke after the game, giving her opinion on what was a great game for the neutral, however concerning for the Rovers faithful after shipping so many goals.

She said: “I think the scoreline wasn’t neccesarily representative of the game. I think attacking wise we looked good, defensively it was a horror show.”

Barton made a major call to not include Kilgour, despite his red-card being overturned after being sent off against Ipswich Town in midweek.

The academy graduate didn’t come off the bench at all despite shipping three goals in either half with Gorodon, Hoole and Whelan seeing out the entire match.

It was a decision that shocked Charlotte, whilst also adding context to the injuries that Rovers have had to deal with.

“Absolutely, that is his natural position. After his red card was rescinded, I would have thought it would be an automatic start.

“Once we have got the squad back all fit because we have been pretty horrified with injuries. Maybe it’ll be alright but we’ve got to keep the faith.”

As well as Charlotte’s thoughts, some fans took to Twitter to summarise theory thoughts after the latest match at the Memorial Stadium.

@gasheadgeorge: ‘Once the defenders are back from injury I think we’ll be fine, actually had the chances to win the game even if we still conceded six but wasn’t to be.’

@adamlowry1301 – ‘No excuses today Joey, that’s all on you.’

@immy69386347 – ‘Start Coutts and that could’ve been a different game but ah well.’

@Elmhart – ‘Wow, sort the defending out from front to back! There shouldn’t be any times when we score three goals and lose. It was never a penalty… #UTG’

@Brionyee – ‘Not acceptable to be losing 6-3 at home. Two poor sides.’

@Ford4Caz – ‘If that was going to be our defence all season I’d be worried but its not! Awful result but I remember how bad some games were this time last year.’

@robmc5herry: ‘Didn’t get booed off so fair play gas. less said about the defending the better . strangely i found it quite entertaining.’

@JoeDalbs: ‘It’s never boring being a Rovers fan.’

@whizz15: ‘I think this is this seasons version of 4-1 Exeter away. Whilst I love the fact our manager isnt afraid to change things up, experiments must end. Still not worried,but must get consistent with our approach,despite the 11 on the pitch.’