Rovers reporter Rich Sharpe hands out his player ratings after the win over Sheffield Wednesday. 

Christian Walton 7

Beaten to the ball by Fletcher in the lead-up to the Wednesday goal but made up for it with a stunning save in injury time from Hutchinson. Smart saves from Harris in either half.

Elliott Bennett 6

Given a tough time by Harris and much of the Wednesday threat came down that flank. Never stopped working though, with one excellent challenge on Hutchinson in the second half, and it was his free kick that led to Adarabioyo’s equaliser.

Ryan Nyambe 7

Got his chance in the heart of the defence and allied his pace across the ground with some more convincing headers than we’ve seen previous. Unlikely to be a long-term solution in that position, but a more than useful option.

Tosin Adarabioyo 8 (MAN OF THE MATCH)

Made more headed clearances (9), passes (61) and had more touches (75) than anyone on the pitch, including a stunning cross-field field ball to create a chance for Armstrong. It was his ability to know when to put his foot through the ball though that impressed, and drew Rovers level with a terrific looping header. Was a leader at the back that Rovers craved.

Derrick Williams 6

Moved to left back, but a little short of conviction on the ball. Didn’t allow any threat down his side, and a move out of the centre of defence felt a bit like taking him out of the firing line. Would have had an excellent chance in the first half had he controlled a Downing free kick.

Lewis Travis 8

Was the driving force Rovers needed in the middle of the pitch and would have had his second of the season were it not for a sprawling Westwood save. His energy was a welcome boost for the team, anchoring the midfield early on, but when playing in a two, it brought the best out in him.

Stewart Downing 6

Started on the left, where he set up chances for Gallagher and Dack, before moving inside. Was simple with his passing, rather than a creative force.

Adam Armstrong 6

Anonymous in the first half, but a few moments of promise in the second saw him draw a smart save out of Westwood and cross for Rothwell’s chance. Had another shot blocked from Gallagher’s cross.

Lewis Holtby 6

Showed his quality with several neat passes, none more than to release Gallagher in the second. Couldn’t get in the game as much as Rovers would’ve hoped in a more central role before being replaced.

Bradley Dack 6

Played deeper than usual in the first half where he showed a determination to battle and scrap. Didn’t get a sight of goal all afternoon but never stopped working.  

Sam Gallagher 6

A first half header saved by Westwood was as good as it got for the striker, though he was unfortunate not to win a penalty in the second half for a foul by Hutchinson. Got little change from Borner before a knock forced him off.

Subs

Danny Graham (for Gallagher, 64) 7

Lifted the crowd, and the team, when brought on.

Joe Rothwell (for Holtby, 67) 6

Not known for his heading, but went close with an effort from an Armstrong cross. Teed up Buckley for the winner. Still seems better as an impact substitute than starter.

John Buckley (for Downing, 87) 7

Couldn’t have wished for any better cameo as his deflected shot sparked wild scenes of celebration.

Not used: Jayson Leutwiler, Amari’i Bell, Corry Evans, Bradley Johnson