Head of Women's Football Joe Manns was extremely pleased to see Rovers end 2023 with a big win, defeating AFC St Austell 4-2 at Hartpury.

In their final game of the year, goals from Rhian Robbins, Hattie Jones, Tori Taylor and Annie Martin secured a comfortable victory, which sees Rovers climb to third in the South West Premier Division.

“We’re extremely pleased,” said Manns. “It’s been coming because the performances have been extremely good over the last five games. We’re five games undefeated but it was really important to get over the line today with a good win and dominant display.

“I feel like we’ve had the dominant displays in recent weeks but we haven’t had the points to go with that, so to win in such a dominant manner is pleasing - and I think the scoreline probably unflatters us slightly in terms of two easy goals conceded.

“The main positives are the four goals, dominating the ball and playing with a really good team spirit and unity - and real moments of quality as well.”

Manns was pleased with his goalscorers as Rovers recorded up their most prolific afternoon since September.

“I’m delighted for Rhian, who took her chance really well and I’m delighted for Annie who scored her first goal of the season," said Manns.

“Tori was outstanding - that was one of her best games. Good in-possession, good out-of-possession. 

“Hattie had a knock, a pretty bad dead leg and she hasn’t trained much this week, so to play the minutes she did and to have the impact she did was very impressive.”

Rovers aren't in action until January 7, meaning Manns and his squad can enjoy the festive period. When they return, they will only have four league matches left, with a long trip to Liskeard kicking off their 2024.

“Our schedule has been relentless with games every Sunday," he admitted. "That’s been quite difficult as we’ve been in a tough moment during October and November, with loads of long away trips.

“The players can have a breather - three weeks without a game. We can let our hair down and relax over Christmas. We can go into the Christmas break on the back of five games undefeated and with lots of confidence and positivity as well.”