Neil Harris hails Cambridge ‘desire’ in win over Bristol Rovers

Cambridge boss Neil Harris hailed his players’ professionalism after they booked a place in the Carabao Cup second round with a 2-0 victory over Bristol Rovers at the Memorial Stadium.

Louis Appere’s second goal in three games this season sent Cambridge on their way and Ryan Loft’s 75th-minute header sealed an impressive win.

“Well done to the players that came into the team tonight. It was a strong performance,” Harris said.

“I will be disappointed if we don’t back that up on Saturday. We will be right at it.

“I am pleased for the fans who travelled and it was important that we put on a show. We played with more control and game-management than we did last Saturday.

“All credit to the players for their learning ability during the past 48 hours, and their desire to want to do well. I thought they took their opportunity.

“I was really pleased with the fluidity that we showed, the fact also that Bristol Rovers changed shape three times in the game and we were able to adapt.”

Rovers were booed by their supporters and boss Darrell Clarke said: “Painful watch, no hiding away from that, a million miles away from where we need to be.

“It’s where we’re at at the minute, I’m afraid. There’s still some players a little bit scarred, trying to find their feet, but those performances won’t be accepted by myself or the support.

“We do look a little bit fragile and not really a team at the minute.

“It’s a painful night but I also know there won’t be loads of nights like that.”