Rovers returned to winning ways after a resilient display against Watford in the capital, but which players caught the eye?

AYNSLEY PEARS…7.5

Didn’t have a massive amount to do but made a couple of vital stops either side of half time to deny Martins, who posed a real threat. Has had a solid start to the campaign as he aims to keep hold of the No. 1 shirt after Leo Wahlstedt’s arrival.

JOE RANKIN-COSTELLO…7

Was up against some skillful wide players but made some important defensive contributions. Seemed to be in a bit of discomfort when he left the field and hopefully his injury is nothing serious.

HAYDEN CARTER…7

Defended resiliently against a dangerous Watford side and remained focused despite facing a barrage of pressure during the final 15 minutes. Slotted in at right-back and kept things tight after Rankin-Costello came off.

DOM HYAM…7.5

Wasn’t afraid to put his body on the line and made a goal-saving block during the first half. Might have been a tad nervous when the ball struck his arm in the box but it would have been a harsh call as he went to ground.

CALLUM BRITTAIN…7

Did an admirable job on the left of defence in Harry Pickering’s absence. Has given a good account of himself in recent weeks as he aims to nail down a place in Tomasson’s starting line-up.

LEWIS TRAVIS…7

Caused the hosts problems with his runs from deep and offered valuable support to Rovers’ attacking players. Also deserves credit for his classy gesture ahead of kick-off and is everything you would want in a leader.

ADAM WHARTON…7.5

Continues to shine in the middle of the pitch and made it look effortless at times against the Hornets. Very rarely misplaces a pass and every attack seemed to come through the youngster, who is proving he can be effective in a deeper role.

SAM SZMODICS…7

Won back possession high up the pitch on several occasions and continues to cause opposition defences problems with his quick feet. Understands what Tomasson wants from him and continues to improve in an advanced midfield role.

RYAN HEDGES…7.5

Kept his cool to fire home what could prove to be a crucial winner for Rovers in a few months’ time. Seemed to react quickest to every loose ball and wanted it more than the Watford defenders around him.

HARRY LEONARD…6

Didn’t get many opportunities to impact the game during the first half but worked hard to press from the front. Would have wanted to build on his West Brom goal but must remember there is a long season ahead and plenty of opportunities will come.

TYRHYS DOLAN…6

Got into a few dangerous areas but wasn’t able to impact the game as much as he would have hoped. His pace proved to be a useful asset during the first half as Rovers looked to break quickly and exploit the space in the Watford half.

Subs 

Gallagher (57, for Leonard)

Moran (57, for Dolan)

S Wharton (77, for Rankin-Costello)

Garrett (95, for Travis)

Unused: Wahlstedt, Gamble, Tronstad, Markanday, Bloxham

Referee: Gavin Ward

Attendance: 17,810