THE half-time substitutions played a major part in deciding the destiny of the points at The Dell, Rovers boss Brian Kidd being forced into making a crucial replacement, Saints manager David Jones admitting his initial gamble had failed.

When the half-time whistle blew, Stephane Henchoz went straight to the bench to stress to his manager the problems he was having with his groin injury.

It was clear he would not be returning for the second half and there is no doubt that his composure, command and authority was badly missed after the break.

"There was no way he could have gone back on for the second half," said Kidd.

"That was the important thing, losing him at half time.

"There were players toiling and that's the only thing which is killing us, just getting fit players out there."

In stark contrast, Jones made voluntary interval changes and, eventually, they worked a treat for him.

In fact, if it had gone on much longer a game which seemed lost by Saints would surely have been won, never mind drawn.

"We made a decision this week that we would go with the experienced players because of the position we are in," said Jones.

"In the first half, most of our experience was at the back and we conceded two sloppy goals.

"But in the second half I felt we had to get the young legs on with the pace and the power and ' Beatts' was superb."

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