Luke Powell’s player ratings after Walsall show fight to come back and beat Bristol Rovers

A second-half brace from Aaron Pressley saw a determined Walsall fight back to beat Bristol and stretch their unbeaten run to seven League Two games. 

Walsall also retained their spot at the summit of League Two with the win.

Player ratings 

Myles Roberts

The on-loan goalkeeper was solid when he was called in action as Walsall came under intense pressure throughout the first-half. Denied a powerful goalbound effort by Bryant Bilongo that could have extended Bristol’s advantage. 

Solid, 7

Harrison Burke

Had a tough battle with Ellis Harrison whose tricky footwork led to Bristol’s opening goal. He made several clearances and good tackles, winning most of his duals, before he was substituted after receiving treatment - hopefully not injured.  

Robust, 7

Aden Flint

The former Bristol City defender was a target for the travelling Rovers supporters but he had the last laugh, leading from the back with resolute defending. Came close to levelling the game with a header in the first-half. 

Commanding, 7

Evan Weir

In a match where the defence was key, Weir won aerial battles, came on top in ground duals and got stuck in for his side, making crucial tackles and interceptions to nullify Bristol’s threat. 

Tackled, 7

Connor Barrett

Played a key part in the comeback, providing the second goal within a brilliant run and precise through ball for Pressley. Held his own against winger Bryant Bilongo who was a handful. 

Crucial, 7

Charlie Lakin

Covered plenty of ground as Bristol dominated early possession, battling hard in midfield. Grew into the game, making some great passes, but was subbed in the second period.

Worked, 7

Ryan Finnigan

A quiet afternoon for the midfielder as Walsall spent most of the first period in their own half. Was unable to impact the game too much and was replaced after the break. 

Replaced, 6

Lewis Warrington

Made a key interception but struggled to impose himself as Rovers dominated possession and the flanks in the first period. Made several passes to his teammates but led to nothing before being withdrawn at half-time.

Subbed, 6

Vincent Harper 

Was lively throughout, stretching Rovers with his direct running and supplying a superb cross for Walsall’s equaliser, showcasing his attacking intent and impact from the wide areas.

Lively, 7

Daniel Kanu 

Battled gamely up top but endured a quiet afternoon, with no real chances falling his way, as his strike partner stole the spotlight with a superb match-winning display. Had three offsides as he looked to create chances. 

Battled, 6

Aaron Pressley 

The Walsall hero delivered a towering centre-forward display, bullying defenders with relentless strength and scoring twice - his decisive contributions turning the tide and sealing a comeback victory in emphatic style.

Hero, 8

Subs: Courtney Clarke (for Finnigan, 46,) 7. Comley (for Warrington, 46) 6. Priestley Farquharson (for Harrison Burke, 57) 7. Jellis (for Lakin, 65) 7. Adomah (for Kanu, 75) N/A. 

Subs not used: Hornby, Matt.