Rovers player ratings from the 2-1 win over Derby County at Pride Park.

 

Thomas Kaminski 7

One comfortable save in the first half but did come under more pressure in the second, with one flying save to deny Morrison from a free kick.

John Buckley 8

Involved in the two Rovers goals, the first with a fine cross and the second when stepping inside from right back. Filled in for Nyambe and although tested, did his defensive duties well. Is becoming an ever-important member of this side, even with his versatility.

Darragh Lenihan 8

Won an incredible 15 headers, on top of seven clearances, four tackles and three interceptions and Rovers needed their captain to stand tall during Derby’s second half pressure. Did concede a couple of free kicks in dangerous areas, but helped marshal a makeshift backline through some heavy Derby pressure.

Jan Paul van Hecke 7

Mowbray has been pleased with the progress of the Brighton loanee who also stood up when Rovers needed him to, not least against the physical challenge of Kazim-Richards. Went close to a first Rovers goal with a header that clipped the post. Bar a very adventurous 35-yard shot, was controlled in possession.

Tayo Edun 7

Showed his attacking capabilities in the first half and his defensive qualities in the second in another good showing. Delivered one fine early cross and dove-tailed well with Brereton. Has a role to play in this side moving forward, but may well end up further forward.

Lewis Travis 7

Able to play a bit further forward, and got around the pitch in his usual fashion, but his best work often came without the ball, making only 35 touches. Involved in a couple of flashpoints, including a late booking, but got through plenty of work.

Bradley Johnson 7

Recalled to the side against his former club, and should have had another goal against them when a late first half chance fell his way. Helped stunt the threat of Lawrence by patrolling the area in front of the Rovers backline.

Joe Rothwell 7

Dictated the play in the first half and had the game firmly under contract. Seemed the one player most willing to press the ball after the break when he showed the required defensive discipline.

Tyrhys Dolan 7

Enjoyed himself in the first half as he did in this fixture last season and had the beating of Forsyth. Created Brereton’s second goal and had an excellent chance for a goal of his own. Influence faded as Rovers were forced back after the break.

Sam Gallagher 7

Won 15 headers leading the line, and had the beating of Davies and Jagielka throughout, but just couldn’t find that finishing touch when two first half chances fell his way. Battled his way through the second half before one knock too many forced him off.

Ben Brereton 8

Two inside the opening 20 minutes took him to 12 goals this season. Had two bites of the cherry to turn his first home, but his second was done with the confidence of a man at the top of his form. Scuffed a shot goalwards when the chance of a hat-trick presented itself.

Subs

Reda Khadra (for Dolan, 75) 5

Didn’t provide much defensive cover for Edun as shown by the free kick conceded which led to the Derby goal.

Ian Poveda (for Gallagher, 87) 5

Lost the ball with one of only two touches made, and was booked for time-wasting when delaying taking the kick-off after the Derby goal.

Not used: Aynsley Pears, Hayden Carter, Joe Rankin-Costello, Jacob Davenport, Leighton Clarkson