Josh McEachran meant his flighted cross-cum-shot in Rovers victory – Rhys Carr

Bristol Rovers assistant manager Rhys Carr was quick to point out that Josh McEachran meant his audacious flighted cross-cum-shot into the top corner that opened the scoring in the 2-1 League Two win over Barrow.

Midfielder McEachran was stood out by the touchline as his dipping centre dropped over Wyll Stanway after 16 minutes for his first goal since 2018.

“I’ve known Josh a few months now, working with him and he’s got quality in that left foot. I’m sure he probably meant it but others might say otherwise,” said Carr.

“The gaffer has been big on pushing the lads this week and we’re hoping that we’re starting to see a few of those connections build.

“We’re pleased (with the result) but there’s always plenty to improve upon.”

The goal paved the way for Rovers to make it four wins on the bounce in the league and continue the Gas’s upward trajectory in Sky Bet League Two, with summer signing Fabrizio Cavegn netting his first league goal for Rovers.

“It’s good to see those guys linking up for sure,” said Carr of strikers Promise Omochere and Cavegn, who combined for the match-winning strike.

“Special mention to Fab getting his first league goal but also to Prom (Omochere) – his energy without the ball was really good, particularly in the first half.

“He’s (Omochere) completing 90 minutes consistently now, which is really good. And to see that final action…those moments that matter, it’s pleasing to see that link-up.”

Barrow head coach Andy Whing was adamant – following the defeat – that his side had been affected by poor refereeing decisions.

Official Sam Allison’s decision to penalise and caution Barrow’s Isaac Fletcher in the 86th minute, rather then award a penalty, following a burst across the box by the 23-year-old midfielder drew the most ire, with Whing blaming Allison for costing his side a result.

“Obviously it was a stonewall penalty. I thought the referee was poor today,” said Whing. “He apologised to me at half-time because he got two unbelievable decisions wrong that he gave to them.

“I don’t want his apology at the end of the day because he’s just cost us a point, it’s a stonewall penalty and we should be coming off even with at least a point.

“We were outstanding second half, we absolutely battered them.”

Whing, who was booked for his remonstrations from the sidelines in the second half – in which substitute Connor Mahoney pulled a goal back for the visitors – added: “With the chances we had, we could have won the game in the second half.

“We lacked belief and confidence in the first half and we didn’t start great, but it’s not like they peppered us or anything.

“First goal he’s crossed it and then (Barrow defender Niall Canavan) goes off and we’ve had to reshuffle and the second is another poor goal to concede.

“We need to show belief starting games rather than waiting for something to happen, like we did today.”