Bristol Rovers player ratings as profligate final third play proves costly against Oxford United

Joe Day - 6

Helpless for Elliott Lee's opening goal, with the striker enjoying the freedom of BS7 to pick his spot and bury the chance. Made a super save to deny a powerful header, but was beaten again in added time. It was at the near post, but the shot was struck with such power that it would be harsh to blame him.

George Williams - 5

Had great energy all night and put some good balls in. Tired late on and was punished by the speedy Brandon Barker.

Max Ehmer (c) - 6

Made two key interventions to prevent Matty Taylor from having a chance.

Alfie Kilgour - 6

Rovers were pretty solid until he was sacrificed for an attacker when they were chasing the game.

Jack Baldwin - 5

A very good first half was spoiled by one rash decision, stepping in on Matty Taylor and the striker's flick took Baldwin out of the game, leaving a crease in the Gas backline and Lee was able to race in and score. Passing was good, but almost gifted a goal in the second half with a really loose touch.

Luke Leahy - 6

Solid if unspectacular. Should have hit the target with a header.

Josh Grant - 4

Did OK defensively, but had a poor night in possession.

Luke McCormick - 4

Energetic but ineffective. Blew a huge chance to equalise late on. When he took it off Nicholson, he had to score.

Erhun Oztumer - 4

Took up great positions but failed to make them count. Lacked precision in attack, like his teammates.

Alex Rodman - 5

Some bright moments down the left in the first half, but was quieter in the second half.

James Daly - 4

Rovers look a better team with him in the XI, but he ruined a promising performance with some poor finishing, burning two good opportunities to take the lead before his profligacy was punished by Lee's opener.

Subs

Zain Westbrooke (for Kilgour on 64) - 6

Bright.

Sam Nicholson (for Oztumer on 64) - 6

Should have come on sooner.

Brandon Hanlan (for Rodman on 71) - 5

Didn't see the ball in threatening areas.

Jonah Ayunga (for Daly on 81) - 6

Created the chance Rovers needed, but it wasn't taken.

Not used: Jordi van Stappershoef, Cameron Hargreaves, Cian Harries.