Bristol Rovers player ratings vs Peterborough: Wilson colossal and Hunt shines on return in win
by Daniel Hargraves · BristolLiveBristol Rovers returned to winning ways on Sunday afternoon, securing an important 3-1 victory against fellow League One strugglers Peterborough United at the Mem.
James Wilson broke the deadlock in the first half, tapping home from a Matt Butcher corner on debut before second half goals from Isaac Hutchinson and Ruel Sotiriou secured the victory.
Ricky-Jade Jones denied the Gas a clean sheet with just minutes to go, backheeling smartly from a yard out after a scramble in the penalty area. However, overall it was an excellent day's work for Inigo Calderon's men.
Here's how we rated the players...
Josh Griffths - 7.5
A couple of decent saves at key moments which can't be underestimated. Has certainly had busier afternoons this season, mind but a shame he couldn't hold onto the clean sheet.
Jack Hunt (off for Joel Senior 84') - 7.5
Considering the context of his return to the side, that was one hell of a reminder to Rovers of what he can do. Within the opening two minutes the right-back almost had an assist upon his first appearance in three months. A constant threat down the right hand side. Hopefully that means he'll be staying at the club beyond tomorrow's transfer deadline.
James Wilson - 8
Colossal at the back for the most part and got a long-awaited goal from a corner. Remains arguably Rovers' biggest unsung hero this season.
Connor Taylor - 8
Also superb at the back with very little getting past the big defender. If the Gas are to bring in a centre-back before the window closes, they'll certainly have competition.
Lino Sousa - 6.5
Decent in bursts. Didn't seem to be overflowing with confidence at times but did what was needed of him.
Matt Butcher (off for Romaine Saywers 84') - 7.5
Might go under the radar at times while he's at Rovers considering the position he plays but a very solid debut. No nonsense in the middle and marked it with an assist for Wilson's goal.
Grant Ward - 7
Grew into the game after a poor mistake that should have been capitalised on at 0-0. Delightful floated ball over the top for Isaac Hutchinson's goal.
Luke Thomas (off for Scott Sinclair 72') - 6.5
Worked tenaciously down the right flank but just didn't manage to pluck out that moment that led to a goal or an assist. Linked up nicely with Jack Hunt, something we haven't seen for a long time.
Isaac Hutchinson - 8
Superb all-round display from the attacking midfielder. Certainly in contention for his best display in a Rovers shirt. Composed in the middle and consistently looked to carve out an opening for the Gas before taking his goal superbly. As he said in the week, it certainly looks as though he's turned a corner.
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Ruel Sotiriou - 8
If there's doubt about that being Hutchinson's best display, there's none in regards to Sotiriou. Deployed out on the left, the forward was outstanding. A delight in possession and tenacious out of it and took his goal superbly. Delighted for him.
Gatlin O'Donkor (off for Chris Martin 41') - 6
Didn't quite see the ball fall for him but his endeavour and work rate was decent. A shame that he had to come off injured, watch this space in regards to the severity of the issue. Seems to be a hamstring problem.
Substitutes:
Chris Martin (on 41') - 7
Did superbly for Sotiriou's goal. Set for a run now with O'Donkor injured.
Scott Sinclair (on 72') - 6
Came on and looked lively. Added fresh legs to a group that starting to tire.
Romaine Sawyers (on 84') - N/A
Came on late.
Joel Senior (on 84') - N/A
Same as above. Will be frustrated he couldn't see the ball out at the back-post for Peterborough's consolation goal.