Bristol Rovers have confirmed the sacking of manager Matt Taylor following a dismal run of results that sees the club sitting 20th in League One, just two points above the relegation zone.
The decision comes in the wake of Saturday’s 2-0 defeat to Birmingham City, which proved to be Taylor’s final game in charge. Appointed in November 2023 as the Kuwaiti ownership’s first managerial hire, Taylor departs after just over a year at the helm. His tenure began with promise, but inconsistency and a lack of attacking firepower have left the Gas struggling to maintain their League One status.
Bristol Rovers FC can confirm that Manager Matt Taylor and Assistant Manager Wayne Carlisle have been relieved of their first team duties.
— Bristol Rovers (@Official_BRFC) December 16, 2024
Mounting Pressure
Taylor’s position had been under scrutiny for much of the season, with pressure intensifying after a run of poor results. Despite a brief resurgence in October with victories over Charlton Athletic, Burton Albion, and Shrewsbury Town, Rovers have taken just five points from their last seven league matches. Fans’ frustrations boiled over during the Birmingham game, with chants calling for Taylor’s departure ringing out at St Andrew’s.
Speaking after the Birmingham loss, Taylor admitted he was concerned about his future, stating:
“Yes, but I can’t control that. Whoever’s in charge of this football team, I think the same patterns will occur.”
A Difficult Tenure
Taylor’s spell at Rovers has been a mixed one. He initially steadied the ship upon his arrival, guiding the team to a mid-table finish last season. However, a club-record goal drought and ongoing struggles in front of goal have plagued the Gas this term. Rovers have scored just 17 goals in 19 league games, with only two goals in their last seven matches.
His efforts in the summer transfer window saw 16 new players arrive under the guidance of director of football George Friend. Despite flashes of quality, the team has failed to find consistent form, leaving Rovers mired in the lower reaches of the table.
Writer’s View
