Paul Stancliffe was proud of the performance his U18s side put in as they started 2019 with an entertaining 4-2 victory over Chesterfield.
Despite falling behind within the first five minutes, Rovers ran out winners after goals from Jack Watson and Myron Gibbons along with a Chesterfield own goal allowed Stancliffe’s side to take three points from Miguel Llera’s team.
Stancliffe said: “It’s the first game back after a short break and I thought early on we looked a little bit rusty and invited them on to us. Once we did concede, it actually seemed to settle us down more than it did them and when we went in front I couldn’t see any other result.
“We simplified our game and that allowed us to make the right decisions and to be honest, I think we were a lot more comfortable in the second-half.
“There were lads who went with the first-team, which meant there is an opportunity for others to come in so and they’ve done well against a good physical team in Chesterfield and collectively we’ve stood up to them.”
The youth team manager was keen to praise every single player in his squad.
He added: “Everybody has played their part in the win today, from Dec in the goal – who probably kept us in the game during the first-half – the back four looked solid once they settled, the midfield looked strong and the forwards were a threat as always, so we’re pleased with them all.
“The lads are really positive at the moment and are always looking to score goals because they’re enjoying themselves and it’s topped off a really good day.”