Rickie Lambert believes that Saturday's win over Colchester United can be the start of a "purple patch" for Rovers.

The striker scored the only goal in a 1-0 win for the Pirates at the WHC Stadium, a result that extends the recent unbeaten run to three matches.

It's also the first time Rovers have managed back-to-back clean sheets in over six months.

"Everyone knew we needed a win, and we're pleased it's finally come," Rickie told bristolrovers.co.uk, "The lads performed absolutely brilliantly, and I don't think Colchester ever looked like scoring because defensively we were superb.

"Lennie said before the game he had a feeling we would get the win, and he got it right. We all knew we needed to get a win after recent results, and so there was a bit of relief after the final whistle to finally get one under our belts.

"We've made a lot of improvements to our game over the last couple of weeks, and we need to go on now and show our true form. Hopefully this result can be the start of a purple patch for us, and we can start to climb up the table.

"I knew as soon as we sorted ourselves out defensively then we would move up the table, it was just a matter of time. We've sorted out the mistakes we were making, and we're confident now that we can string a run of good results together."

Rickie's total for the season so far is already nine goals, and the striker says it's his best start to a campaign yet.

"I'm really happy with the way I'm playing in games, but the main thing is picking up points," he said, "I've never started a season as well as this for myself, and I hope it continues and that we carry on winning.

"In pre-season if I'm honest I came back a little bit overweight, and my goal was to lose half a stone, which I did in three weeks. Ever since then I think there's been a difference in my game, and as
long as I'm fit and confident I know I'll continue to score more goals."