Simon Weaver pinpointed Harrogate’s hard work as being key to getting their Sky Bet League Two campaign off to the best possible start.
Bristol Rovers were the better side in the first half at the Memorial Stadium but the Sulphurites stayed in the game and were rewarded when Stephen Duke-McKenna chipped into the net just after the hour mark to earn a 1-0 win.
Harrogate manager Weaver praised his side’s effort and industry as being crucial to the victory.
“Really pleased, and a deserved win, we knew it would be a difficult game but the lads got their rewards for putting in a great team performance to a man,” he explained.
“They worked their socks off and we merited the win. Not just because of that, but the effort was incredible today.
“The new players hit the ground running, great debuts from everyone and testament to all the hard work the boys have put in over pre-season.”
Weaver was particularly enthused by how his new players performed. He gave debuts to six summer signings, with substitute striker Shawn McCoulsky catching the eye and playing a vital role in Duke-McKenna’s goal.
“Whenever we sign someone new there’s always that part of me that thinks we’ve got to get it right in terms of their character and they’ve been superb with their efforts in training in pre-season, and whilst people might look at results our eyes were firmly on Bristol Rovers and working towards something and trying to shape something with the new players,” explained Weaver.
Darrell Clarke’s return to the Memorial Stadium, beginning his second stint in charge of Rovers, was spoilt by the result. His team were unable to convert several good chances that fell their way in the game.
Defender Taylor Moore headed against the bar from a corner in the first half, and substitute Ellis Harrison shot against the base of the post in the second period.
Clarke said: “A disappointing afternoon. The Gasheads [supporters] have come out in their numbers and their support was tremendous and I’d like to thank them for the reception they gave me.
“I thought the first 30 minutes we were on the front foot and we had a lot of territory and chances and hit the crossbar. Perhaps we should have scored in that period.
“Then the disappointment was the next 30 minutes, the final 15 minutes of the first half and first 15 of the second, where there was a lull in our performance, which we spoke about at half-time. But we didn’t step it up. Then we gave a sloppy goal away and we’re chasing the game.”
Clarke also explained that key defender Connor Taylor was not involved due to having requested a transfer. The centre-back has been the subject of “three [or] four” bids, but none matching Rovers’ valuation so far.
