Time For Reality Check-Lines

Pirates fans ‘have to see big picture’

- Dan Barnes

MAYBE it’s time for Bristol Rovers supporters to take stock of just how far they’ve come in such a short space of time.

That’s certainly the opinion of midfielder Chris Lines, who is part of a Pirates side that are currently more stuttering than swashbuckling.

Before this weekend, Rovers had lost eight of their last nine in all competitions and, in midweek, the club were forced to deny that manager Darrell Clarke’s position had become untenable.

But perhaps some perspective is needed…

It’s as recently as 2015 that the Pirates were navigating the choppier waters of the National League.

After back-to-back promotions, last season they recorded their highest finish in the Football League – 10th in League One – for 17 years.

And, as he and his teammates strive to turn things around this term, Lines – who is currently enjoying his second spell with the club – hopes the Memorial Stadium faithful will keep the bigger picture in mind.

“I think that some people, especially our home fans, forget where we were three or four years ago,” said the 31year-old.