Jonathan Tomkinson’s first senior goal proves enough for Cheltenham

Jonathan Tomkinson’s first senior goal secured a 1-0 League Two win as Cheltenham condemned Bristol Rovers to their seventh-successive league defeat.

The former Norwich defender met Jordan Thomas’ corner from the right at the far post and slotted the ball low past Luke Southwood with 20 minutes remaining.

It was enough to settle a West Country derby low on quality, but high on endeavour as under-pressure Gas boss Darrell Clarke endured an unhappy return to his former club.

Clarke’s side started strongly, with Ellis Harrison volleying an effort over the crossbar in the 16th minute.

Fabrizio Cavegn was denied by a fine Joe Day save in the 23rd minute – after a mistake from Tommy Taylor – as Rovers threatened again.

Cheltenham’s only meaningful effort in the first half was a shot from Ryan Broom that cleared the crossbar after a short corner routine.

Cavegn headed Macauley Southam-Hales’ cross over the bar just before the break as the visitors attempted to break the deadlock.

Joel Cotterill saw an effort deflected wide for the away team in the 68th minute before Tomkinson struck moments later and the result lifts them out of the bottom two.