Formation shift
Bristol Rovers’ 5-3 victory over Newport County on Saturday, 2026/27 season, followed a tactical change that saw manager Scott Evans drop the team to a 4-2-3-1. Prior to the match the Gas had used a 4-4-2 diamond, a 4-3-2-1 and a 3-4-1-2, all of which were narrow and left little room for wide players like Bobby Kamwa. In the new shape Kamwa and Shaq Forde were deployed on the flanks, Tommy Leigh operated as the number 10, and Fabrizio Cavegn was the lone striker. The added width, especially on the left, caused Newport’s defence problems and the Gas could have scored eight or nine goals.
Keenan Gough shines
The 20‑year‑old Keenan Gough, who joined from York City, was again a standout. As a number six he provided calmness in possession, a physical presence and relentless ball‑winning. Gough’s performance has eclipsed that of former anchor Richie Smallwood and has made him a likely starter in any midfield arrangement. Evans has also highlighted the depth of the midfield with Clinton Mola, Smallwood, Reiss Russell‑Denny and Leigh.
Defensive concerns
Defensively the Gas still struggle. They have conceded six goals in the first two league games, and the loss of centre‑backs Kofi Balmer and Riley Harbottle to long‑ball attacks was evident. Newport’s first two goals came from long balls that were knocked down by Christian Doidge, with Harbottle failing to win the header on both occasions. The full‑backs Tom James and Ben Purrington, who replaced Macauley Southam‑Hales and Jack Sparkes, improved the backline but still appeared shaky at times. Evans said he will not hesitate to drop players, and a quick physical presence from either Alfie Kilgour or Ciarán Kelly could address the lack of height and strength.
Transfer window outlook
With the summer transfer window closing on 1 September, Evans has confirmed that the Gas will take in a maximum of two new players. A winger is a priority and a “maverick” signing has been mentioned. The club is also finalising the departures of Ryan Howley, Kian Hill, Ollie Dewsbury and Ryan De Havilland. Dewsbury, who scored for the Under‑18s in a 2‑2 draw against Oxford United’s Under‑18s, may leave permanently, with Birmingham City and Stoke City reportedly interested. Howley and Hill are expected to go on loan, while De Havilland remains out of Evans’ plans.
The Gas will look to solidify their defence and add width before the window closes, hoping that the 4-2-3-1 system and Gough’s midfield dominance can carry them through the remainder of the 44‑game campaign.
