Danny Schofield’s first home game got off to an encouraging start, despite defeat to Stevenage who remain in second place after their win.

Schofield made one change to the team that drew 1-1 with Crewe Alexandra three days ago with Adam Clayton dropping to the bench and Kyle Hurst replacing him. With Tom Anderson taking the captain’s armband for the match. 

Rovers put on their performance of the season to date, with some smooth, passive football played throughout. It was a game where the home fans probably came away scratching their heads how Rovers did not at least manage to get a point based on the chances had. 

But great encouragement can be taken in the impressive, dominating performance against a side that other Sky Bet League Two teams have struggled against so far this season. 

Hurst provided important pace to the game and on 15 minutes burst through midfield but was closed down before he could cause Stevenage further headache. 

Rovers looked strong defensively with Adam Long and Tom Anderson at periods making pivotal blocks on Stevenage’s forwards.

Kyle Knoyle was instrumental to most of Rovers’ attacks with him producing blistering runs and providing inch-perfect crosses. In the first-half George Miller got on the end of one ball but glanced the ball just wide.

An astonishing moment came 22 minutes into the half with Harrison Biggins almost winning goal of the season. From inside his own half, he spotted Taye Ashby-Hammond was off his line and went for goal. The ball carraded with the cross bar and bounced out of play. 

Not long after this effort, Steve Evans’ side took the lead. A cross from the left-hand-side was headed home by Roberts. 

Rovers played some really good football and grew more into the game as the half progressed. Stevenage defended tirelessly throwing bodies in front of crosses and shots to deny Schofield’s side.

The second-half saw Rovers in top gear throughout keeping the opposition quiet the entire time. 

Schofield’s side did everything possible except put the ball into the back of the net. But there were enough chances within the game to at least win. 

Kyle Knoyle works his way around sliding challenges, and unleashed Luke Molyneux who crossed the ball hoping to find Miller, but instead found the hands of Ashby-Hammond. 

The performance will leave plenty of positivity in the Rovers camp heading into the next game against Gillingham on Saturday, October 29.