Bristol Rovers v Northampton Town

The goal…

…and the goalscorer

THE GAME

Rovers won an opening day match for the first time since a 3-2 victory against AFC Wimbledon back in 2011, courtesy of Bryant Bilongo’s goal two minutes into time added on.

Matt Taylor’s side took a while to settle but came more into the game as the first half progressed, with decent goalscoring opportunities falling to Grant Ward and Promise Omochere who both forced saves from goalkeeper Lee Burge.

The second half saw Rovers attack with a great deal more purpose, though they found it difficult to break down a stubborn Northampton rearguard.

Two minutes into the seven added at the end of the regulation 90, Rovers were awarded a corner, though the Northampton players insisted a goal kick should have been given. Luke Thomas floated his corner kick to the back post where Bilongo celebrated his league debut with a powerful header past Burge to seal victory.

THEY SAID WHAT?

‘I’m not going to sit here and say we’re deserved winners but between the two teams I thought we were the stronger ones to finish.’ (Rovers’ manager Matt Taylor)

‘It was my best football day; to do it in frontof the fans on my EFL debutand in front of my parents as well. I’m delighted, honestly. I’m so happy.’ (Rovers’ goalscorer Bryant Bilongo)

‘It was a tight game with not much in it, but they shouldn’t have had a corner – that is clear from watching it back – but we needed to defend it better.’ (Northampton manager Jon Brady)