The presence of Elliot Anderson in Joey Barton's team meant the manager's confidence that Bristol Rovers would defeat Salford City never waned. The 19-year-old, on loan from Newcastle United, scored the decisive goal in a 1-0 win for the Gas at the Mem on Good Friday.
Rovers enjoyed long periods of control in front of a 9,590-strong crowd in BS7, but a breakthrough was elusive until Anderson slammed a shot beyond Tom King at the near post with 15 minutes remaining. The Gas climbed to fifth in League Two as a result ahead of the Easter Monday trip to promotion rivals Port Vale – one of just four games left this season.
And Barton can only feel confident about Rovers' chances, particularly with a supreme talent like Anderson in his ranks. The teenager has five goals and three assists since his arrival in January, playing a transformative role in Rovers' development into promotion contenders.
