Joey Barton hails ‘moment of magic’ from Bristol Rovers star after win over Port Vale

Joey Barton described Aaron Collins’ match-winning goal as a ‘moment of magic’ against Port Vale. Collins scored his 11th goal of the season with three minutes to go on the clock.

The 25-year-old had the freedom to run at goal and from 18-yards out after being played through by John Marquis. He jostled in the air for the ball and let fly with a left-footed effort that trickled under Jack Stevens.

Collins had gone two games without registering a goal contribution but was back amongst it with the match-winning goal against Darrell Clarke’s side. It was arguably his one and only opportunity and he took it when presented to him.

Barton said: “You just know Aaron is capable of scoring from anywhere and he really makes it himself with his endeavour and pressures the defender into a bit of a rushed clearance and then has the composure and quality to finish on what is allegedly his weaker foot. It was going to be a moment of magic to settle what was a tight contest.”

Barton was celebrating his 100th game in charge of the Gas, and was on the winning side for the 40th time. The 40-year-old came up against another team that were newly promoted and on reflection the game was closely-fought.

The hosts had the fairer share of possession with 61% of the ball with 405 successful passes. They carved more opportunities with 10 attempts and four landing on target.

Rovers, despite being without their vice-captain Sam Finley, were able to overcome a side above them before the whistle was blown. As a result of their victory, they have moved into the top-half and are three points off the play-offs.

He said: “I really enjoyed the opening exchanges of the game. It was a lovely crisp December afternoon.

“Massive games in the World Cup on and a phenomenal turnout from our fans. I thought they were the better side in the first ten minutes and they started well. It was a nice end-to-end game. I was stood on the touchline and I was like I’m really enjoying this and I don’t think I should be.

“It’s a bit too much open for my liking. Once the game settled I thought we showed the maturity and confidence that is slowly starting to come through with the group.”