Darrell Clarke proud of Bristol Rovers’ mentality in win at Bromley

Darrell Clarke hailed the resolve of his Bristol Rovers side as they booked a spot in the second round of the FA Cup.

Fabrizio Cavegn and Joel Cotterill struck in the final 15 minutes and despite Jemiah Umolu’s late header Rovers held on for the victory.

Rovers manager Clarke said: “It was a commendable effort today, Bromley put us under severe pressure but we stood up to it. Mentality wise that’s much better from us but we are still a million miles away from where we need to be.

“Our forward play could have been better but we’re in the second round and that’s what matters. Fabrizio is a goal threat and he showed that with his two goal contributions.”

The game took a while to break into life and Luke Southwood’s sharp stop from Jude Arthurs on the half hour was the best either side had to show in the first half.

On the hour mark, Southwood produced three great saves to deny Michael Cheek twice and Mitchell Pinnock.

However, it was Rovers who seized the initiative with two quick goals in the final 15 minutes. Cavegn headed home from Luke Thomas’ cross before turning provider for Cotterill to double the lead.

Umolu’s headed goal seven minutes from time set up a grandstand finish that saw Omar Sowunmi’s equaliser ruled out for offside as Rovers held on.

Bromley manager Andy Woodman, serving the second game of his three-match touchline ban, said: “I’m frustrated with the decision made to chalk the equaliser off. I was told Cheek was offside but I felt he was at the front post and not involved with play. That said, we created enough chances to win it before then and didn’t take them.

“My guys will always give me their all but I have to stress to them that we can’t switch off if we want to achieve our goals. Our defending for the Rovers goals was too naive.”