Shearer Error Costs Rovers

Scott Shearer’s blunder in the 73rd minute handed Cheltenham an undeserved win and could cost Rovers a place in the play offs.

The game started off very scrappy and Cheltenham made their intention clear early on by packing men behind the ball. Agogo forced the first save of the game, Rovers cleared the ball up field and Agogo tested former Gas keeper Shane Higgs with a low drive in, which he dealt with comfortably.

Rovers continued to push and Elliot, Agogo and Hunt all missed the target as Rovers tried to take control of the game. Cheltenham had a rare attack JJ Melligan’s effort from just six yards out was well saved by Shearer.

The second half started with John Finnigan flashing a header just wide off Shearer’s post. Agogo was looking lively and forced Higgs into another good save. Moments later Walker and Agogo played some slick passing football only to see Higgs push Agogo’s effort round the post. Lewis Haldane kept up his good form on the Rovers wing, Lewis left three Robins defenders standing as he mazed his way through and produced a fine cross which Hunt just failed to get on the end of.

Then came the moment which gifted Cheltenham the points, a reckless challenge on Christian Edwards was ignored by ?Premiership? referee Peter Walton and left Edwards on the deck in pain. Play eventually stopped when Cheltenham kicked the ball out of play. Rovers returned the ball, Cheltenham then launched a long ball forward down the right. The Cheltenham winger managed to get in a cross towards Wilson who struck a tame volley which somehow bobbled past Scott Shearer in the Gas goal.

Forrester was brought on to try and get back into the game. Cheltenham were putting even more men behind the ball now. Agogo again was unlucky as he attempted a shot on the turn. In the dying minutes shearer had to be on hand to tip a Wilson effort over the bar.

This was definitely three points dropped for Rovers and they will be hoping to get back on track against Stockport this weekend.