Rovers player ratings from the 2-1 win over Derby County

Thomas Kaminski 7

Left exposed for the Derby goal, but came to Rovers’ rescue in the second half, first saving a Lawrence free kick, and then as Rovers looked to close out the win he kept out a Kazim-Richards header as well as Byrne’s dangerous inswinging corner. Has won Rovers several more points than he’s cost them goals this season.

Ryan Nyambe 6

It was his willingness that won the corner from which Rovers equalised, a rare foray forward in the first half. Not given much support defensively by Elliott, and was caught out of position for the Derby goal.

Taylor Harwood-Bellis 7

Still has work to do on his game, but what has continued to shine through during his loan spell is his character. Was dragged out of his central position from the Derby goal, but responded to make several important blocks, showing good position at the near post on several occasions. His demeanour demostrated that of a leader in the back four.

Jarrad Branthwaite 6

A first start in 10 matches and didn’t always look that convincing, failing to get across the near post to stop the danger from the cross which brought the Derby goal. There was more simplicity to his defending after the break. Derby would likely have started Kazim-Richards had they known of Lenihan’s unavailability.

Barry Douglas 6

Claimed a second assist of the season when his inswinging corner was headed home by Gallagher. Was given a tough test by Roberts in the first half, and saw hopeful balls forward fail to find their target, but responded in the second half as Rovers held out. The loanee won six tackles in all.

Lewis Travis 6

Was off the pace in the first half, but showed better signs at the start of the second as a driving break set up a good chance for Armstrong. Really tired as the game went on, and was something of a surprise he stayed on until the end.

Bradley Johnson 5

Couldn’t reach the intensity required as Derby dominated the central areas, Rovers second to the loose balls for much of the game. Played the deepest of the midfield three but couldn’t impose much effect on the game, his pass completion rate down to 58 per cent.

Lewis Holtby 5

Booked for a late challenge on Shinnie and walked a tightrope with the official. Restored to the starting line-up, but Rovers lacked mobility in the central areas. Touched the ball just 30 times before being replaced.

Harvey Elliott 7

Was cutting a frustrated figure in the opening hour but then started to come more into the game, none moreso than his sixth goal of the season, showing composure to cut in from the right and thump a shot beyond Marshall, beating the ‘keeper with the power of his effort.

Sam Gallagher 7

Won eight headers, the most important of which saw him find the net just before the break. Was full of running, and bravely won a challenge early in the second half. Also had a hand in Elliott’s second. Seven for the season now, bettering his tally of last season.

Adam Armstrong 6

Had a battle of his own with Derby ‘keeper Marshall, the Scot coming out on top, denying him three separate times in the second half, as well as a first half free kick. The striker also hooked one effort over the bar, as well as blocked off by Max Bird when clean through, as the game opened up. Could have walked off with a hat-trick, again, but lacked clinical finishing. Did claim an assist for Elliott's winner.

Subs

Joe Rothwell (for Holtby, 56) 7

His introduction coincided with an upturn in Rovers’ performance, offering some much-needed pace and mobility from the centre of the park, his qualities different to what the other midfielders can offer.

Ben Brereton (for Gallagher, 82) 6

Had a shot blocked after cutting inside Wisdom in what was a sole sight of goal after his introduction.

Elliott Bennett (for Elliott, 82) 6

A throwback for the captain as he lined up on the right wing to help offer some more protection to Nyambe.

Corry Evans (for Armstrong, 86) 6

Sent on as Rovers tried to see the game through late on.

Not used: Aynsley Pears, Amari’i Bell, Stewart Downing, John Buckley, Tyrhys Dolan