Rovers player ratings from the 1-0 win over Sheffield United

Aynsley Pears 7

Well protected by those infront of him, with good handling from efforts by Berge and McBurnie in either half. His best stop came from a deflected Egan header.

Joe Rankin-Costello 7

It was his defensive qualities that came to the fore, as he kept things tight on the right flank. Didn’t get as involved with the attacking play but did have shots blocked in either half.

Hayden Carter 8

Used his mobility to his advantage up to help keep Ndiaye quiet and made seven clearances in all. A few nervy moments on the ball but defensively sound and deserving of an extended run in the side.

Dom Hyam 8

Won eight headers and made eight clearances and on course for Rovers’ player of the year prize after another standout display.

Harry Pickering 8

A first goal in 15 months, and a fine one at that, as he finished off an excellent team move. Given a tough test against Bogle but stood up well and had the highest pass competition rate of any player.

Lewis Travis 8

Looks back to his very best, as his fine form continued as he epitomised everything good about Rovers’ display with an all-action display.

John Buckley 8

Rose to the task against an experienced Blades midfield and won eight tackles in all. Took responsibility on the ball with several key passes, and could have had a goal in the second half, only to fire over from the edge of the box.

Sorba Thomas 7

Helped Rovers stretch the Blades backline with some good breaks down the right. Was involved in the winning goal, and when Dolan hit the bar. Has quickly become a key component in the attacking line.

Sam Szmodics 9

Deserved the goal he almost got when hitting the bar in the second half. Linked up time and again with Dolan, not least when setting up the winning goal. Playing with a real confidence, added to his tenacious work off the ball.

Tyrhys Dolan 8

Claimed an assist on his 100th league appearance, and could have had a goal to match, with two blocked efforts and one that came back off the frame of the goal. On the receiving end of some rough treatment, but battled through to help out defensively.

Sam Gallagher 8

Gave Rovers a real outlet throughout the game, and won eight headers, many of which when back defending long throws. Had a late deflected shot, but his all-round performance helped give Rovers a platform to play from.

Subs

Ryan Hedges (for Thomas, 82) 6

Ben Brereton (for Dolan, 82) 6

Subs: Joe Hilton, Callum Brittain, Ash Phillips, Tyler Morton, Jake Garrett

Sheffield United: Foderingham, Fleck (McAtee, 62), Basham (Sharp, 75), Berge, McBurnie, Egan, Lowe (Osborn, 64), Norwood (Doyle, 75), Robinson, Bogle (Baldock, 62), Ndiaye

Subs: Davies, Clark