Rovers reporter Rich Sharpe hands out his player ratings after the 3-2 defeat at Ipswich Town.

Man of the match

Hope Akpan 7

Improving with every start in the middle of the Rovers midfield.  Built on his showing at QPR with another strong display, topped off by his second goal of the season with what was a calm finish just before the break.  His tenacity also helped win Rovers a second half penalty, and he carried the ball well through the middle of the pitch on a number of occasions.

Jason Steele 5

Would have been disappointed by the way he was beaten by Lawrence’s first, and may well rue his decision to try and throw the ball out in the lead up to the second goal.  Made several good saves, however.

Ben Marshall 5

Poor decision making in the lead up to the free-kick from which Lawrence opened the scoring.  Looked somewhat hesitant in his defensive work. 

Charlie Mulgrew 5

Troubled by the movement of Freddie Sears in the first-half, but again showed good composure on the ball, particularly after the break. Costly slip in the lead up to Ipswich's second goal.

Darragh Lenihan 5

Something of a surprise inclusion as he made an immediate return to the starting line-up.  Given a tough time by the lively Lawrence.

Derrick Williams 6

Becoming a dependable figure for Rovers at left back.  May rue his decision not to go down when appearing to have been pulled back in the penalty area late on.

Liam Feeney 6

Was Rovers main threat in the first half and had a key role to play in Hope Akpan’s goal.  Was his misplaced pass which Lawrence profited from with his second goal.

Jason Lowe 5

Rovers were outnumbered in midfield, and despite plenty of hard graft, the skipper struggled to help deny the space between the two banks of four.

Elliott Bennett 5

Didn’t have the impact going forward as he had at QPR, but didn’t shirk his defensive duties. Sacrificed for Marvin Emnes after going 3-1 behind.

Sam Gallagher 6

His hard work played a part in Hope Akpan’s goal. Saw an excellent first-half chance well saved by Bialkowski.

Danny Graham 6

Set up the opening Rovers goal for Hope Akpan and made it 10 for the season with a calmly taken penalty in what was a rare sight of goal.

Subs

Marvin Emnes for Bennett, 60

Not used: David Raya, Wes Brown, Ryan Nyambe, Gordon Greer, Willem Tomlinson, Connor Mahoney