Bristol City boss Steve Cotterill has said that his side produced a "big win" after beating Scunthorpe United at Glanford Park.

Goals in either half from Jay Emmanuel-Thomas and Luke Freeman were enough for the Robins to stay level on points with table-topping Swindon Town.

However, Cotterill was also quick to praise to James Tavernier's first appearance for the Bristolians since joining on loan from Wigan Athletic.

He told reporters: "Every clean sheet is satisfying. They'll beat a few teams here, that's for sure.

"I thought the debutants did well. We threw James in at the deep end and got through a fair bit of work today.

"I've just said to the boys that's a big win. To have 54 points at this stage of the season is great."

City next face an FA Cup fourth-round tie against Premier League side West Ham United next weekend.