Bristol Rovers 2 Burton Albion 0

David Clarkson used his head to edge Rovers further away from the relegation scrap.

Winger Clarkson nodded in his fifth goal of the season in the 70th minute at the far post from right back Michael Smith's cross as Rovers dominated promotion hopefuls Albion.

Nine minutes later midfielder John-Joe O'Toole prodded in from two yards to seal the win after keeper Rob Lainton fumbled a cross from Smith.

And Albion really could have gone for a Burton with more clinical finishing.

Smith and midfielder O'Toole both dragged 20 yard shots wide.

Clarkson nodded Kaid Mohamed's cross into the side netting from two yards

And Mohamed drilled a low shot inches wide from the edge of the area.

Rovers manager John Ward was delighted with his players after they beat promotion chasing Burton and said:

"It was an excellent night's work. We needed to start fast and well. We did that and maintained it. Everyone knew what was required of them. We've beaten a very good top six team.

"It was nice to get a couple of goals and I'm not being greedy, but maybe we could have had more. Our goal scoring record's not great if you look at the whole season, but we're improving steadily."

Albion boss Gary Rowett said:

"I'm hugely disappointed, but we have to take it on the chin. We've got fourteen games now and it's in our hands what we do with them

"Rovers are a big, strong side and arguably could've had more. We spoke to the players beforehand about being tough, but Rovers did a better job than us."