Rovers reporter Rich Sharpe picks out three talking points from the 1-1 draw at Bristol Rovers. 

KILLING OFF THE GAME

Tony Mowbray admitted earlier this month that Rovers were still a ‘work in progress’ when it came to seeing out games.

They have done it well for the majority of the season, as demonstrated by their 10 victories by just one goal.

The New Year’s Day game at Rotherham United where they conceded a late equaliser is an exception rather than the rule. Here, their defensive effort didn’t deserve that late leveller, as they had dealt with the hosts’ threat well, but that pressure on them should have been relieved at the other end.

Derrick Williams squandered an opportunity in which he would score 99 times out of 100, but it was the counter-attacking opportunities that Rovers passed up which also cost them.

Twice in added time they chose the wrong option, with Elliott Bennett trying to cross for Danny Graham when simply keeping hold of possession and a little more composure would have seen them over the line.

ANTONSSON UNFORTUNATE

Marcus Antonsson can count himself unfortunate to have been an unused substitute in each of Rovers’ last two games.

Mowbray opted to stick with the same side as the draw at Gillingham, and once again the attacking substitutions consisted of Jack Payne and Dominic Samuel.

They struggled to have an influence, with Payne utilised in an unfamiliar left midfield role.

The introduction of Antonsson would likely have given Rovers a better balance on that flank, allowing Adam Armstrong the chance to partner Danny Graham in a front two.

On a difficult pitch, the Swede’s mobility could have proved a valuable weapon, but he will eye an opportunity when Rovers make their Ewood return.

UNLUCKY 13

Rovers’ wait for a club record 13th away win of the season goes on after being denied by Chris Lines’ late leveller.

It looked like Charlie Mulgrew’s 13th goal of the campaign would prove to be enough. But once again it was frustration for Rovers on their travels after a second draw within a week.

Four of their final six games were away from home. With two long away trips in the space of four days out of the way, it’s now an equal split in their remaining four fixtures.

Without defeat at home since September, Rovers will look to return to winning ways, having yet to go three matches without three points all season.