Reiss Russell-Denny scores as Bristol Rovers shock Cambridge in FA Cup
The Chelsea academy product Russell-Denny underlined his potential with a superb second-half goal.
On-loan Tottenham midfielder Reiss Russell-Denny put Bristol Rovers on course for an FA Cup first-round shock with a classy opener in a 2-0 win over Sky Bet League One club Cambridge at the Memorial Stadium.
Chelsea academy product Russell-Denny underlined his potential with a superb second-half goal before Fabrizio Cavegn followed suit with a fine strike as League Two club Rovers shrugged off poor recent form to humble Neil Harris’ side.
Despite going into the tie on the back of a seven-match winless streak, Rovers began confidently and centre-half Alfie Kilgour drove narrowly wide before Cavegn shot straight at goalkeeper Jake Eastwood and Tom James’ effort was just off target.
The West Country side continued to dominate after the break and the 20-year-old Russell-Denny made sure they made the pressure count in the 57th minute when he drove a low 20-yard shot beyond Eastwood’s dive.
Cavegn followed Russell-Denny’s example to double the lead in the 72nd minute as he redeemed himself for missing a sitter moments before when he seized possession just outside the box and then unleashed a powerful low drive that beat Eastwood’s dive.
Cambridge rallied and were thrown a lifeline when Cathal Heffernan was dragged down in the penalty area but Sullay Kaikai blasted his 82nd-minute spot-kick against Brad Young’s crossbar.