‘Dominated’ - Andy Mangan delivers verdict on Bristol Rovers v Barnsley

Andy Mangan believes Bristol Rovers must improve if they are to build on their performance with Barnsley.

The Gas drew 1-1 with the Tykes, despite falling behind to Nicky Cadden’s early opener. Scott Sinclair was introduced in the last 20 minutes and netted in the 81st to ensure Rovers at least wouldn’t go home empty handed.

A statistical look at the game saw Rovers have 52% of possession and create more opportunities. The hosts registered 15 shots and four of them landed on target compared to Barnsley’s nine attempts and three shots on target.

“I’ve seen games like that before,” said Mangan.

“I’m frustrated not to get all three points I think we dominated the game but there are areas of improvement we need to get better at.

“We’re a possession based team who can hit teams on the counter because we’ve got fliers up front. When those chances come we need to take them.

“Today we haven’t so we’ve shared the points with Barnsley who are a really good side. They’re someone who finished in the play-off final last season and they’re fancied again.

“Purely just based off the performance today I think everyone should go away feeling unlucky we haven’t got all three points. I think the performance shows exactly what we’re trying to do.

“If an alien came from out of Mars and they said which was was in the play-offs last season which we weren’t. I think they would pick us.”

Last season Barnsley won 3-0 at Oakwell, and then drew 0-0 in the reverse fixture at the Mem. Joey Barton described them as the toughest test they faced last season.

Rovers though could count themselves unlucky at not getting all three points. John Marquis had a handful of chances but was denied by the woodwork, as well as serval saves from goalkeeper Liam Roberts.

Mangan added: “On another day which will happen we’ll score three, four or maybe even five goals. Today unfortunately we’ve only got the one.

“I think everyone goes home today wanting a little bit more but also realising we’ve got a proper side here. I think we’ll do really well this season, and I think the lads understand that as well. You just need to practice and believe, and I believe we’ll be really good.”