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Johnstone's Paint Trophy | First Round

Sep 4, 2013 at 7.45pm UK

Bristol City
2-1
Bristol Rovers

Emmanuel-Thomas (12'), Bryan (76')

FT(HT: 1-0)

McChrystal (60')

Bristol City squeeze past Bristol Rovers in Johnstone's Paint Trophy

By Michael Penkman, Reporter | 04 September 2013

Joe Bryan's goal 15 minutes from time is enough to see Bristol City overcome local rivals Bristol Rovers 2-1 at Ashton Gate in the first round of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy.

Bristol City have beaten rivals Bristol Rovers in their Johnstone's Paint Trophy first-round encounter at Ashton Gate.

The Robins took the lead in the 12th minute through Jay Emmanuel-Thomas, who picked up the ball from 30 yards out and unleashed an unstoppable shot into the top corner.

Rovers started to see more of the ball after going behind and nearly got back on level terms when the ball fell to David Clarkson on the edge of the area, but he dragged his shot wide of the mark.

Marlon Harewood brought a fine save from Steve Mildenhall, who was nearly caught out by a cross from Bobby Reid, which the veteran was relieved to see bounce off the top of the bar.

The hosts led at half time but John Ward's men drew level in the 60th minute, when defender Mark McChrystal buried a header past Elliot Parish.

However, it was a goal from 19-year-old midfielder Joe Bryan 15 minutes from time that settled matters, as he slotted home after Mildenhall had saved from Emmanuel-Thomas.

Parish was called upon once more at the death as both Ellis Harrison and Oliver Norburn threatened to equalise, while defender Brendan Moloney was nearly left red-faced by heading into his own goal.