Bristol Rovers have surged to the top of the League Two table after a 2-0 victory over Colchester United. Manager Steve Evans immediately called on the Gasheads to dream of what this season could bring for the club.
What did Steve Evans say after the win?
Speaking after the match, Evans was quoted by the Bristol Post with a clear message for the supporters. "I want our supporters to dream," he said. "I want our supporters to dream about what it could be like to see this club having full houses and taking two-and-a-half, 3,000 away every week when we're probably establishing the season." His passion for the club was unmistakable as he added, "But once a Gashead, I'm in love with the Gasheads, this is my girlfriend, this is my passion."
Evans has overseen a remarkable transformation since arriving at the Memorial Stadium. He guided the team to 45 points from the final 26 games of the 2025/26 campaign, a run that included a nine-match unbeaten streak to finish 14th. This rescued Rovers from the relegation zone they were in when he took charge. The club finished the 2025 season in 14th place with 62 points from 46 games, a record of 19 wins, 5 draws, and 22 losses. Their recent form at the end of that campaign was strong, finishing with a sequence of DWWWW.
How does this season compare to pre-season expectations?
Bristol Rovers were installed as one of the pre-season favourites for promotion alongside Salford City, Port Vale and Rotherham United. That prediction looks shrewd after four games, with Evans's side sitting pretty at the summit. In contrast, the other three fancied sides have managed just two wins between them from a combined 12 matches so far. The Gas's overall numbers under Evans are impressive, with 17 wins, 3 draws, and 13 losses from his 33 matches in charge. The team has scored 59 goals and conceded 44 during his tenure. You can see how the promotion race is shaping up in our standings.
What is the significance of the next fixture?
The immediate focus shifts to Saturday's home game against Rotherham United at The Mem. A victory would extend Bristol Rovers' winning streak in league games at their home ground to ten matches, equalling a joint-club record. It promises to be a tough test against a Rotherham side managed by Alex Bruce. The Millers have collected five points from their opening four fixtures, including a 2-2 draw at Tranmere Rovers last night. Fans can plan for the run-in by checking our fixtures page.
Evans will be demanding his players maintain the standards that have propelled them to the top. The team's attacking prowess has been a feature, with 56 goals scored this season, though defensive solidity remains a work in progress with 65 conceded for a -9 goal difference. Last season, they finished 25 points behind champions Bromley. The manager's rallying cry is about building a lasting connection and success. The full squad available for this push is listed on our squad page. Bristol Rovers host Rotherham United at the Memorial Stadium on Saturday, September 12th.
