Rovers beat Cambridge to reach FA Cup second round
Steve Evans credits chairman support after a 2-0 win that secured a place in Monday's draw.
By Simon Bennett ·
Bristol Rovers defeated Cambridge United 2-0 at The Memorial Stadium on Friday night, securing a spot in the second round of the FA Cup. The victory over the League One side ended a difficult recent run for the Gas, who have lost seven of their last nine matches in League Two.
Reiss Russell-Denny opened the scoring in the 57th minute. Fabrizio Cavegn added the second goal 15 minutes later. Cambridge United hit the crossbar from a penalty in the second half, but Rovers held their lead to advance. The win allows the team to participate in the FA Cup draw scheduled for Monday night.
Manager Steve Evans stated he felt pressure heading into the match but emphasized the confidence provided by the club's leadership. Evans noted that Chairman Hussain AlSaeed has reassured him daily that the manager is "here for the long-term." This support allowed Evans to field a team designed to play with high energy rather than playing defensively out of fear.
"We don't kid ourselves. Football is a results business," Evans said. He credited the players for their effort, noting they deserved enormous credit for performing under pressure. Evans said the first half was competitive with neither team yielding ground, but the second half saw Rovers increase their intensity.
The manager highlighted the work ethic of the squad during the week's training sessions. He mentioned that the team, along with coaching staff Tomo Lee Tomlin and Byron Anthony, worked hard on the training ground. Evans said the players produced the energy the club is known for, both at home and away.
Rovers face Reading on Tuesday night in their final group stage match of the Jersey Mike's Trophy. The team is already eliminated from that competition. Following that match, Rovers will host Chesterfield on Saturday for their third consecutive home game at The Memorial Stadium.
The team aims to improve their league form after the recent losing streak. Evans said the players can look forward to watching the FA Cup draw on Monday night, which will determine their next opponent.
