John Ward hails phenomenal work-rate as Bristol Rovers move a step closer to safety

Bristol Rovers boss John Ward once again hailed the 'phenomenal' work-rate his players showed to move a step closer to guaranteed survival following a victory at Oxford United.

Lee Brown and Eliot Richards grabbed second-half goals earlier today to help Rovers move five points clear of the drop zone after claiming their fifth victory in eight games since Ward took charge on December 17.

"It was an exceptionally hard effort from the boys," said Ward.  "It was our third game in a difficult week against a side that had the luxury of a full week to recover after their last match.

"The pitch was heavy and we had to really battle our way towards a result. I'm really pleased at the way we have approached our business today.

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"There are lots of different ways to win a game and for us this one was all about determination and desire. Oxford are a side in good form at this moment in time. It was imperative that we came into the game to play in a way that wouldn't give them an opportunity to roll us over.

"It could have been different if they had got a break in front of goal, but it didn't happen for them and we managed to take advantage by getting a couple of goals of our own.

"We're delighted it has gone our way and I think the boys deserve it because the effort and work-rate they have shown in the last few games has been nothing short of phenomenal."

Ward, meanwhile, was forced to withdraw Danny Woodards with a nasty-looking head injury in the second-half following an 'unpleasant' challenge by Oxford midfielder Lewis Montrose.

"Danny is fine," Ward said after the game. "He took a boot to the head and sustained two cuts that needed stitches. He got his head patched up and was back out on the bench with us to watch the final stages of the game."

Rovers now have seven days to recover before they return to action with a game against Wycombe Wanderers at the Memorial Stadium next Saturday and Ward said: "That's good.

"The players have run themselves to a standstill this week and they need a bit of a breather. We'll allow that to happen before we begin our preparations for a very tough game against Wycombe last weekend."