Rovers player ratings from the 5-1 win over Cardiff City.

Thomas Kaminski 7

Denied Flint in the first half and also tipped over a second half header from substitute Harris. Was solid under the high ball.

Ryan Nyambe 8

A vital goal-line clearance in the first half denied Morrison’s header. Is picking and choosing more when to break forward, and as a result, not leaving Rovers as exposed to the counter-attack.

Darragh Lenihan 8

An aggressive start from the captain who set the tone with some commanding headers up against Kieffer Moore. Rovers took no chances with his fitness when replaced just before the hour.

Daniel Ayala 8

Made a game high eight clearances, and helped repel the long ball threat of Cardiff. Would have had a third of the season had his header dipped a little lower. Has now played more minutes this season than last, and Rovers look a much more solid unit with him at the heart of the defence.

Harry Pickering 8

An excellent pass in the lead up to the fourth goal. Given a tough test by Giles in the second half, but largely stood up well, winning four tackles.

Lewis Travis 8

Battled hard against an aggressive Cardiff midfield trio, and helped Rovers win the battle in that part of the pitch. Took on the captain’s armband after Lenihan was replaced.

John Buckley 8

Opened up the Cardiff defence with a fine pass over the top for Gallagher’s opener, one of several well-timed passes. Won four tackles, the joint most alongside Pickering.

Joe Rothwell 7

Several trademark breaks forward with the ball to eliminate the Cardiff midfield, but didn’t always find the end product from them.

Tyrhys Dolan 8

A goal, an assist, and a standing ovation on his 50th appearance. Excellent turn and cross for Brereton’s first goal, and anticipated Gallagher’s knockdown for the fourth. Operated through the middle.

Ben Brereton 9

A first senior hat-trick, started off with a fine volley, finished off by a penalty, with a bit of fortune thrown in for his second. Also had a hand in the fourth goal, and was full of running, forward and back, throughout. Has now matched his tally of goals from last season.

Sam Gallagher 8

Marked his return to the side with a goal and an assist. Had seven shots at goal across the 90 minutes and looked in the mood from the off. Won five headers, helping his side out defensively from long throws and set plays, and also creating Dolan’s goal.

Subs

Hayden Carter (for Lenihan, 57) 7

Continues to do a job when thrust into the action, not least here, with four clearances after replacing Lenihan.

Reda Khadra (for Dolan, 65) 6

Didn’t always have the best success with his attempted tricks and flicks after coming on, but did show neat footwork to win the penalty.

Tayo Edun (for Rothwell, 83) 6

A home debut for the new signing in the closing stages.

Not used: Aynsley Pears, Leighton Clarkson, Ian Poveda, Dan Butterworth