Inigo Calderon, the head coach of Bristol Rovers, is adopting a game-by-game approach as the team aims to secure their League One status over the final 14 matches of the season. The Gas will kick off this crucial period by hosting Rotherham United on Saturday, followed by a trip to Shrewsbury Town and a home game against Huddersfield Town. With their home form significantly stronger than their away performances, Calderon is focusing on each upcoming match without looking too far ahead.
After suffering consecutive defeats on the road, including a crucial loss against relegation rivals Northampton Town, Bristol Rovers’ lead over the bottom four teams has dwindled to just three points. This setback came as Burton Albion secured back-to-back away wins, putting pressure on Rovers to maintain their position in the league. Despite the challenges, Calderon remains steadfast in his game-by-game approach, emphasizing the importance of each fixture in the remaining months of the campaign.
Home Advantage and Away Struggles
Bristol Rovers will play eight of their final 14 games at home, where they have been more successful this season. The team has gathered 10 points out of a possible 12 in their recent home matches, with 25 of their total 35 points coming from games played at the Mem. In contrast, Bristol Rovers have only managed three away victories throughout the campaign, suffering eight losses in their last nine League One away games. Despite a promising run of home fixtures that included wins against Peterborough and Burton, as well as a draw with Stockport, the team’s away form has dragged them into the relegation battle.
When asked about the stark contrast in performance based on the venue, Calderon acknowledged the team’s struggles on the road but couldn’t pinpoint a specific reason for the disparity. He noted that the team’s approach to games, preparation, and tactics remained consistent, regardless of the venue. While acknowledging the importance of playing at home, Calderon emphasized the need for improvement in their overall performance to secure positive results.
Looking Ahead
As Bristol Rovers prepare for the challenging final stretch of the season, Calderon’s focus on taking one game at a time reflects a strategic and measured approach to ensure the team’s survival in League One. With the pressure mounting and the relegation battle intensifying, each match becomes a crucial opportunity for the team to secure valuable points and climb up the table. By maintaining a disciplined and game-specific strategy, Calderon aims to guide Bristol Rovers through a successful conclusion to the season.
While the road ahead may be challenging, Calderon’s commitment to a game-by-game mentality offers both the team and fans a sense of focus and determination. As Bristol Rovers gear up to face their upcoming opponents, the importance of each match is magnified, highlighting the significance of every point earned. With the season reaching its climax, Bristol Rovers will rely on Calderon’s tactical acumen and the players’ resilience to navigate the remaining fixtures and secure their place in League One.
