THE first match of the post- Darrell Clarke era saw a gutsy Rovers return from the north east with nothing after a 2-1 defeat to League One giants Sunderland, writes Stephen Knowlson.

I, and many other Gasheads, were very disappointed at the news of Darrell’s departure. Despite our poor start to the season and too many underwhelming performances, Clarke is Rovers through-and-through with an obvious love for the club and a great affinity with the supporters.

His past achievements speak for themselves – two consecutive promotions and a reconnection with the club’s fan base leading to average attendances of nine thousand for the past couple of seasons. The tearful scenes at the training ground when Clarke said his goodbyes demonstrates the high regard in which he was held.

With the departure of Clarke and his number two, Marcus Stewart, caretaker management responsibilities fell to Graham Coughlan for the daunting trip to high-fliers Sunderland. Rovers got off to the best possible start with Alex Rodman netting his first league goal for the club after 11 minutes.

Unfortunately, the lead didn’t last with Adam Matthews heading in at the back post shortly before the break and just four minutes into the second half Josh Maja put the Black Cats into the lead with a well-taken goal on the counter. Rovers, roared on by an admirable 1500 travelling fans, tried hard to get back into the game but it wasn’t to be.

Our eighth loss in ten games leaves us four points adrift of safety with an important home game against Joey Barton’s Fleetwood this Saturday. The board don’t seem to be in much hurry to appoint Clarke’s successor so it’s likely that Coughlan will lead the team over the festive period. A number of names have been linked with the vacancy – I would like to see Paul Hurst appointed – he did a great job with Shrewsbury last season.

All Gasheads want for Christmas is a few wins and to climb out of the relegation places - I’m not holding out much hope! A very Merry Christmas to Gasheads everywhere.