John Ward On Win

Manager John Ward had nothing but praise for his side after their impressive 3-0 away win over play off hopefuls Fleetwood.

Ward said to TIB: 'I told the players to believe in themselves and that it was possible to win the game, even though the odds were stacked against us.'

Ward could only name 5 subs due to injury and handed a debut to young striker Ellis Harrison. 'Our victory was mainly down to good finishing and a lot of hard work all over the pitch. Our front players will get all the credit for the goals, but everyone has made a contribution to what was a fantastic team effort.

'The pace and energy we played with was fantastic and it is an encouraging day for everyone connected to Bristol Rovers Football Club.

He added: 'Fleetwood are a team in the top seven, who are expected to finish in the play-off places at minimum.

'Somebody told me they had 32 players training on Friday, while we had 15. We are swimming against the tide a little, but I knew this was a tough job when I accepted it so I'm not going to start moaning about it now. I know these boys have got attitude and ability and I just hope I can get a few more in now to help us out.'

Rovers are still bottom after yesterday's win, but can go into Saturdays clash at home to Exeter City with renewed confidence.

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