‘Flat, uncomfortable, frustrating’ - Bristol Rovers player ratings v Burton Albion

Bristol Rovers' winless run extended to seven as they fell to a 2-1 defeat to Burton Albion, despite opening the scoring at the Memorial Stadium.

John Marquis put the Gas in front, but substitute Charlie Kirk scored just before half-time, and then Sam Winnall put Dino Maamria's men in front in comical fashion.

The Gas started on the front foot and their reward was the opening goal which was well-worked. James Gibbons delivered an accurate ball for Marquis to head home.

The hosts pushed for a second and top scorer Aaron Collins went near, as he drove his shot just past Craig MacGillivray's goal. Collins had another opportunity after being teed up by Gibbons on the edge of the box, but his half-volley just brushed the post in another near effort.

Burton had their own chances with Dale Taylor's back-heeled effort from Tom Hamer's low-driven cross was their best chance after falling behind. They nearly conceded a second however when they left Jarell Quansah unmarked for a corner-kick, but he could only head over.

Rovers were made to rue Quansah's missed header as from a quick counter-attack, Burton found themselves level. A long ball ended up with Taylor picking out Kirk and he snuck it underneath Balcombe to make for an even first-half.

Burton started the second-half strongly and went ahead after a defensive mix-up, in which the hosts had claims for an offside. A cross came in to the box which Balcombe tried to claim, and his defenders but the end result was Winnall scoring from close-range.

The Brewers had multiple chances to increase their advantage as Taylor forced Balcome to dive down to save, whilst Kirk nearly profited from an error from Lewis Gordon, but the Rovers goalkeeper saved in a one-on-one. Deji Oshilaja then tested Balcombe from range and he fumbled the shot, but as Taylor scored on the rebound, he was adjudged to be offside.

Despite making four changes including a triple swoop on the hour mark, Barton's men could not mount a comeback and failed to test MacGillivray in the Burton goal, with Scott Sinclair's curled shot over the bar summing up their efforts in a flat second-half performance.

Ellery Balcombe - 5

A difficult day for the Rovers goalkeeper, who looked uncomfortable from set-pieces and crosses. Supporters chanted Belshaw’s name which may have impacted his performance.

James Gibbons - 6

A great assist for Marquis’ opener with an expert ball, making amends for his sliced cross moments earlier.

Jarell Quansah - 5

Quansah made several blocks, but was part of a defence that did not look assured all afternoon.

James Connolly (subbed off, 78) - 5

Centre-backs are very rarely substituted but the Wales Under-21 defender made way for Hoole as Barton sought a chance.

Calum MacDonald - 5

Given his debut given Gordon had a bout of sickness in the week, but nothing spectacular to report.

Antony Evans - 5

Evans had a few positive moments, and made some well-timed tackles, but Rovers need him to impact games more.

Grant Ward - 5

Substituted just after the hour. He showed energy but

Lamare Bogarde - 5

The on-loan Villa man showed some promise, but Burton were just better in the park.

Scott Sinclair - 5

A few moments in the first-half, and he had the best chance of the second but lost his composure with his shot.

John Marquis - 6

Took his goal well with a nicely cushioned header but other than that, there wasn’t much from Rovers’ attacking line in the second-half.

Aaron Collins - 5

A few half opportunities, but the Gas’ key man could not get in to the game. A frustrating day for him.

Harry Anderson (subbed on, 60) - 5

Came on and then had to change position when Coburn was brought on. He was unable to affect the game for Rovers.

Paul Coutts (subbed on, 60) - 5

Brought on to freshen up a midfield that was being overrun but Burton continued to dominate.

Lewis Gordon (subbed on, 60) - 5

Came on as a substitute but nearly gave Burton a third with a loose pass.

Josh Coburn (subbed on 70) - 5

Coburn couldn’t get in to the game with there being no outlet up top.

Luca Hoole - (subbed on, 78) - N/A