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Day: 9/30

Season: 2015/16

Fixture: Rovers 1-5 West Ham United (21/2/16)

Highlights

Why Chosen 

I’d urge any Rovers fan to try and find fondness for the 2015/16 campaign. The largely underwhelming era of Paul Lambert followed the steady-handed management of Gary Bowyer to produce a season of lower half mediocrity. The defeat against the Hammers was expected. But the skill and world class performance from Payet was a joy to watch. I, like many others, applauded him as he departed the stage in the closing moments, after a vintage display. Two goals, including a glorious free kick and wonderful solo strike book ended a performance which also included an assist. The best players just seem to glide across the surface. Payet seemed to be playing his own game and was a cut above. Worth the entry fee alone.

Aftermath 

Rovers dismal 2016 saw them lose 23 out of 52 games in the calendar year (in all competitions) which in retrospect was a precursor to what lied ahead the following campaign. Lambert left with little fanfare and the rot became apparent a few months later. As for Payet, he was shortlisted for the Players Player of the Year and claimed the West Ham Player of the Year as they’d finish 7th in the Premier League. 

Honourable Mentions 

Rovers 0-1 Burnley (24/10/15) – Rovers lose (again) against fierce rivals Burnley. Tom Lawrence I don’t think I’ll ever forgive you.

Leeds United 0-2 Rovers (29/10/15) – A rare Thursday night Championship match up sees Rovers score twice inside the opening six minutes to claim the three points. Gary Bowyer’s last victory as Rovers boss.

Preston North End 1-2 Rovers (21/11/15) – Lambert’s first game in charge of the Rovers and a victory at Deepdale, the hopes and expectations began to rise.