Bristol Rovers manager Steve Evans hailed his team's 5-3 derby victory over Newport County, claiming the side could have scored double the goals. The match, played at The Mem, saw Harrison Biggins score within 15 seconds, while Ben Purrington equalized seconds before halftime. Rovers dominated the second half, with Fabrizio Cavegn and an own goal giving them a 3-1 lead before Kamwa's 74th-minute strike extended the margin. Cole Jarvis' late goal set up a nervy finish, but Cavegn sealed the win with a late added-time goal. Evans admitted the team 'could have scored double the goals' and praised the defense's resilience despite conceding. He also criticized fans for targeting Kamwa, who celebrated his goal with a 100-yard run, calling the comments 'have no place in football'.
Evans hinted at a potential new signing, stating, 'I think there might be a new set of kit in the training ground on Monday.' The club's transfer window deadline is September 1, with Rovers having signed 11 players since May. Evans confirmed discussions with the chairman were positive, though details remained unclear. He also praised the ownership model at Newport County, noting fans' usual fairness despite occasional banter.
Kamwa's goal, which came after a 13-second goal from Biggins, sparked controversy. Evans referenced a famous celebration by a 'very famous footballer' but stressed Kamwa's 'character and fight'. The winger had previously vowed to celebrate only if fans 'gave him some proper stick', a promise he fulfilled. Evans highlighted the team's resilience, noting players 'sorted themselves out' after going a goal down. The Gas face Chelsea U21s in the EFL Trophy on Tuesday, with a trip to Crawley Town following four days later.
