Manager on Rovers last game of the season
Darrell Clarke will be going in to Saturday’s game against Mansfield looking to end the season on a high with three points.
Rovers need at least a point from the final game of the season to guarantee League Two survival, but the manager will not be looking to settle for a draw.
He said: “We want to finish on a high, we need to finish on a high. The three points at Wycombe has given the squad a big boost and we needed that victory.
“Now we are down to the final game and we need to go and win it. We need a point to stay in League Two, but it is a game I want to try and win.
“The job is not done and we still have plenty of work to do. When we do it, it is going to be a relief and not a celebration.
“I am confident we are going to get over the line, but I don’t find it a celebration as I don’t believe our football club should be in a situation like this and it has been a very, very disappointing season.
“The players know that, the staff know that, and everyone at the football club knows that. But we have to focus on the 90 minutes and then we can look to rebuild.”
Mansfield have nothing left to play for, but after a couple of poor displays they may be looking for a reaction in the final game.
Darrell said: “I believe we cut out individual errors on Saturday, and we are looking to build on that in the final game against a Mansfield team that have had a bit of a dip in form.
“It is not going to be an easy game. They could be a dangerous animal as their manager has been in the press saying how disappointed he has been in their last two games, which means he will be looking for a reaction from his team.
“The experience we have gained over the last eight games is going to be vital, as the pressure has been there and we are experienced of dealing with it.
“We will go into the game in a positive manner and we have got to go out on the front foot and keep the fans behind us – which they will be without a shadow of a doubt.
“I will be monitoring the Wycombe and Northampton games, as I have to do my job right, but first and foremost we will be concentrating on ourselves.”
And the manager had more praise for the supporters.
He said: “The supporters have been top of the league all season, it is us who have been letting those supporters down.
“They have stuck by us, and not many other football supporters would do that. They are getting us over the line, as well as one or two players who are stepping up to the plate a little bit more recently.
“It would be a proud achievement for me personally to help get us over the line and secure League Two status. Then hopefully I will get the opportunity to rebuild my own team.”
For the full interview, visit Gas Player.