Bristol Rovers’ FA Cup Victory Reflects Absent Manager Taylor’s Spirit, Says Coach Horseman

Dave Horseman, Bristol Rovers’ first-team coach, stated that the team’s FA Cup success against Barnsley “epitomises” manager Matt Taylor, who is currently absent. Taylor had previously held managerial positions at Exeter City and Rotherham United before joining Bristol Rovers. Horseman, alongside assistant manager Wayne Carlisle, guided “the Gas” to their second-round victory via a penalty shootout, following a 120-minute match at Oakwell that ended without a goal. The club had announced last Thursday that the 42-year-old Taylor would be taking a leave of absence because of an “ongoing family emergency.” Speaking to BBC Radio Bristol, Horseman remarked, “We’re dedicating that to Matty Taylor and his family because I think that’s more important than any win.” He added, “What the team showed epitomises his spirit, determination. The boys went through the pain barrier for that reason today and we spoke about it quite a lot.” During the match in Yorkshire, Rovers absorbed 30 shots and conceded almost 60% of possession. Nevertheless, the visitors’ strong defensive display proved successful, with “Gas” goalkeeper Josh Griffiths making nine saves, notably a vital block against Barnsley’s Josh Earl during the penalty shootout. Griffiths, who is currently on loan from Championship team West Bromwich Albion, commented, “I didn’t know it was the winning penalty to be honest.” He continued, “The lads ran towards me and obviously I was delighted. It was nice to win it and top off a decent performance.” Griffiths further stated, “I think it’s something goalkeepers relish. You’ve got the chance to be the hero, the one that gets us through.” Rovers are scheduled to resume League One play on Tuesday evening with an away match against Leyton Orient, followed by a home game against Bolton Wanderers on Saturday.