Luke Thomas labelled Bristol Rovers victory as a ‘big win’ after the Gas beat Cambridge United 1-0 away from home in Sky Bet League One.
The Pirates were winless in seven outings in the third tier since beating Mansfield Town 1-0 at the One Call Stadium towards the end of November and started the day five points above the U’s, with Thomas netting the winner with a first-half header.
The Gas survived plenty of Cambridge pressure after the break, with Josh Stokes missing chances for the hosts after Isaac Hutchinson's goal to double Rovers' lead was disallowed for offside. Michael Morrison was then sent off in the latter stages for the U's.
Thomas spoke about the victory and hopes the team can move forward after the triumph.
“It feels really good,” said the winger. “It’s buzzing in the changing room. I don’t think it’s quite a six-pointer yet with so long left in the season, but it was a really, really big win, and hopefully, now that can kick us on and get our season started again.
Thomas came up with the decisive moment in the content, getting onto the end of Scott Sinclair’s cross from the left to plant his header beyond Jack Stevens.
He has been an important player for the Gas recently after spending time in and out of the squad. Thomas provided an assist for Promise Omochere in Rovers 1-1 draw at home to Wrexham and won a penalty against Leyton Orient, with the former Barnsley man now off the mark for the season in front of goal.
Thomas reflected on his goal and is glad to be back contributing for the Pirates.
“I didn’t think it was going to get to me, but it was a delicious ball from Scott, who picked me right out,” he said. “I did my best to miss it, but luckily for me, it’s gone in.
“I’m delighted to be back in the team. There’s nothing worse than when it comes to a Saturday or a Tuesday, and you’re sitting at home on a settee as I was doing. But I’m delighted and I feel like I can add something to this team.”
Rovers displayed plenty of fight and determination. The hosts pushed for a leveller in the second half, but the Gas stayed strong to keep their eighth clean sheet of the campaign in all competitions.
Thomas was pleased with performances across the pitch, stating it helped Rovers get over the line and was buzzing for the defence.
“A few of the lads have stepped up today,” he said. “James Wilson, Connor Taylor, Taylor Moore, Chris Martin up top. They just won everything and put their bodies on the line for us to see the game out.
“We’ve not kept a clean sheet for a few games or a while, so that will be massive for them, and I’m sure that’s what they’ll be priding themselves on. Josh Griffiths, the goalkeeper and the back four, so I’m buzzing for them, and it was a really good win in the end.”
Iñigo Calderón was appointed as Rovers’ new head coach on Boxing Day and was in the dugout for defeats against Exeter City and Leyton Orient before leading his side to a 1-0 victory on his birthday.
Thomas discussed the impact of the new head coach and said that he is looking to implement new ideas.
“He’s come in and lifted everyone, which the new manager usually does, but he’s good some really good and bright ideas,” said Thomas. “Obviously, as you can see, a few of them are paying off already, but there’s still a lot of work to be done.”
