Lino Sousa was delighted with Bristol Rovers’ 1-0 victory over Shrewsbury Town in Sky Bet League One.
The Gas collected their fourth victory at The Memorial Stadium in six league outings thanks to a fine strike from Jamie Lindsay, who latched onto Shaq Forde’s cutback to fire his first-time effort into the top-left corner.
Rovers had to battle through a difficult period in the closing stages and a disallowed goal from Tom Bloxham to hold onto the triumph and a first clean sheet since August 31 against Cambridge United.
Sousa was delighted to be on the pitch and has called on his side to keep their momentum going after three wins in four games in the third tier.
“It was really good to be back out there and even better to get the three points,” he said. “It was a team effort, and the boys dug in, so it was really good.
“We’re trying to keep the momentum going. That’s the hardest thing. We want to keep the momentum and rhythm in training and games to give the fans the wins that they want so everyone is happy.”
Sousa was one of four incoming players after the Pirates’ 3-1 loss to Huddersfield Town, making his first League One start since the defeat to Wycombe Wanderers at the end of September.
The left-back impressed before coming off for Clinton Mola immediately after Lindsay’s goal and discussed how he felt watching from the sidelines.
“You get a bit anxious in the dugout because you want to be out there helping, but you’re just watching,” said Sousa. “The boys dug in for a huge three points, and we go again on Saturday.”
Sousa was one of 16 summer signings for the Gas, moving on loan from Aston Villa. He is certain that the team is moving in the right direction and is looking to gain plenty of experience during his temporary switch to Rovers.
“We’re 100 per cent heading in the right direction,” he said. "The manager is big on that. We’ve got to bounce back, as there’s always a next game and another opportunity. We go again, refresh and do what we need to do on the pitch.
“As players, we know our quality, what we can bring and what we can do.
“I’m looking to get experience, professional games and minutes under my best to prepare my body physically. I’ve been able to do it on a Saturday and a Tuesday. It’s physically demanding. When I play football, I’m happy.”
