Rovers player ratings from the 1-0 defeat to Preston. 

David Raya 6

Got a hand to the goal, but too much power on Johnson’s shot to keep it out. Good handling from a Maguire cross in the second half.

Ryan Nyambe 6

Was in the thick of the action, up against Maguire, and generally more than held his own. While his pace and strength is an asset, there remains moments of uncertainty.

Charlie Mulgrew 6

Went close with a first half corner, and one good block from a Nmecha shot in the second half, before being forced off injured.

Derrick Williams 5

Nmecha was too quick, and strong, for the Preston goal. Helped improved Rovers’ aerial presence, but far too wasteful in possession.

Harrison Reed 6

Used in a role he fulfilled during his time with Norwich. Was one of the many whose final ball was found wanting, despite his usual effirt.

Elliott Bennett 5

Had two off target efforts in the first half, but from the left, and right, his delivery in to the box was a real let down. Hooked a second half effort wide of the target.

Richie Smallwood 6

Created a good chance for Bennett in the second half, and put Graham in with a neat pass. No shortage of effort but couldn’t get near Johnson to stop the goal.  Won five tackles, more than anyone on the pitch.

Corry Evans 5

Pulled out of position in the lead up to the Preston goal which meant he couldn’t match Johnson’s run. Booked for a second half goal, and was dispossessed on three separate occasions.

Adam Armstrong 5

Shot wide from a Dack through ball in the first half, and scuffed an effort in to Rudd’s arms in to the second. Five shots in all, three of which found the target. Doesn’t appear to suit that deeper central role.

Bradley Dack 5

One good first half pass to free Armstrong, but his influence was restricted, and failed to make the most of a few openings. Several shots blocked in either half, but no clear cut openings.  Failed to hit the target with four efforts.

Danny Graham 6

Toiled away, and won several knockdowns which weren’t taken advantage of. Drew one save from a flicked header from an Armstrong save.

Subs

Joe Nuttall (for Reed, 62) 5

Was chosen over Ben Brereton as Rovers’ first change. His initial spark off the bench dissipated somewhat.

Amari’i Bell (for Mulgrew, 71) 5

Hadn’t trained for much of the week, hence his place on the bench. Would have had a hand in the equaliser had Rudd not pulled off a smart save when his cross was deflected goalwards.

Joe Rothwell (for Smallwood, 71) 5

The one player who showed the ability to run at Preston, but it was a surprise that his introduction didn’t arrive earlier.

Not used: Jayson Leutwiler, Lewis Travis, Craig Conway, Ben Brereton