Rovers' cup win 'epitomised' Taylor - Horseman

Matt Taylor previously managed Exeter City and Rotherham United before arriving at Bristol Rovers

Bristol Rovers first-team coach Dave Horseman says the Pirates' FA Cup victory at Barnsley "epitomises" absent manager Matt Taylor.

Horseman and assistant manager Wayne Carlisle oversaw the Gas' penalty shootout second-round triumph after a goalless 120 minutes at Oakwell.

It was announced last Thursday that Taylor, 42, would take a leave of absence due to an "ongoing family emergency".

"We're dedicating that to Matty Taylor and his family because I think that's more important than any win," Horseman told BBC Radio Bristol.

"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."

Rovers soaked up 30 shots across the match and gave up nearly 60% possession in Yorkshire.

However, a resolute defensive performance paid off for the visitors as Gas goalkeeper Josh Griffiths made nine saves, including the crucial stop that denied Barnsley's Josh Earl in the shootout.

"I didn't know it was the winning penalty to be honest," said Griffiths, who is on loan from Championship club West Bromwich Albion.

"The lads ran towards me and obviously I was delighted. It was nice to win it and top off a decent performance.

"I think it's something goalkeepers relish. You've got the chance to be the hero, the one that gets us through."

Rovers return to League One action on Tuesday night when they travel to Leyton Orient before hosting Bolton Wanderers on Saturday.