Bristol Rovers' winless run was stretched to six games as Tresor Kandol's first-half double and a Gary Alexander strike boosted Millwall's promotion push.

The victory flattered the Londoners, for the visitors gave as good as they got for most of the match – particularly in the second half.

But the Pirates were left chasing the game after sloppy defending allowed on-loan Leeds United striker Kandol two goals inside the opening 18 minutes

The first came from a corner after just five minutes. Rovers keeper Steve Phillips was impeded, managed only a partial punched clearance and the ball was played back across goal by Tony Craig for Kandol to convert from close range.

And 12 minutes later, Aaron Lescott's backpass was intercepted by the lively Kandol, who rounded Phillips before slotting home from an acute angle.

Rovers struck back straight away from a Stuart Campbell corner, Rickie Lambert heading home his 18th goal of the season from 10 yards as Millwall's defence was pierced for the first time in six games.

But the Pirates suffered another blow after 26 minutes when midfielder Chris Lines – who had been recalled to the side after suspension – was stretchered off after a clash of heads with Jimmy Abdou and replaced by Joe Jacobson.

Rovers took the game to the Lions in the second half with keeper Forde pulling off a fortunate save after a Lambert drive struck him and bounced up and over the bar.

Jacobson was inches wide with a first-time shot from 25 yards, but then Gary Alexander crashed home Millwall's third against the run of play after 72 minutes.

Jo Kuffour pulled another goal back for the visitors with a smart shot on the turn with 11 minutes left, but Rovers were unable to conjure up a leveller despite a valiant effort.

Millwall: Forde, Frampton, Robinson, Dunne, Alexander (Harris 82), Grabban (Hackett 68), Craig, Kandol, Martin, Abdou (Laird 46), Bolder. Subs (not used): Whitbread, Grimes.

Bristol Rovers: Phillips, R Green, Anthony, Elliott, Lescott, Campbell, Disley (Duffy 74), Lines (Jacobson 26), Hughes, Lambert, Kuffour. Subs (not used): Hinton, Pipe, Hunt