ROVERS matched their Championship opponents for ninety minutes in their Carabao Cup clash with Wolves on Tuesday night, but lost in extra-time despite a valiant effort.

An entertaining game saw the Gas play some excellent football and give everything to the cause as they battled to secure a passage through to the fourth round.

But they could not find the breakthrough despite hitting the woodwork twice and mustering 21 shots on goal.

It was a fantastic effort that was saluted by two thousand travelling fans who appreciated the unrelenting commitment of the players throughout an absorbing contest that finished 1-0.

Lines looked a class act as he took control of the midfield, ably supported by the lively Sercombe, while Harrison and Nichols toiled away up front and we defended resolutely. Slocombe also pulled off a couple of wonder saves to keep Wolves out.

We now need to carry that impressive form into the league as we bid to improve on our recent fortunes.

The 3-0 loss at Wigan on Saturday meant the Pirates have now lost three of their last four league fixtures.

Our fortunes were not helped by Sweeney’s dismissal in the 30th minute.

The imposing defender, who is on loan from Stoke, has not shown the consistent form of last season yet, and showed an error of judgement by making contact in the box and upending a Latics striker. He could have had no complaints when the referee brandished a red card and left us with an uphill battle.

The result was then a formality for Wigan as goals in the 30th and 49th minutes, with another in injury time, ensured a comfortable victory for the hosts.

A missed penalty from Harrison compounded our woes and meant it was an afternoon to forget.

The result left us 15th in the table and although it is still early days, we know the team is capable of better performances and they need to achieve greater consistency.

Rovers need to improve their league form as more tough fixtures lie ahead in the coming week, with a home clash with Blackpool on Saturday before travelling to Portsmouth next Tuesday.