ROVERS’ fate was finally sealed on Saturday as the Gas failed to gain the win that was needed to keep our season alive.
A draw against Sheffield Wednesday was not enough and as other teams won their crucial games, our relegation to League Two was confirmed.
We knew it had been on the cards for some time and the vast majority of fans had already resigned themselves to playing in the bottom tier next season.
Neutrals would have enjoyed the match as there was plenty of entertainment on offer and a decent Rovers performance, but Gasheads greeted the final whistle with stunned silence as grim reality set in.
Stuart Campbell has galvanised the side since taking over and more committed performances had provided renewed belief and spirit.
But the players will have to ask themselves if they played to their maximum when Trollope and Penney were in charge, as sub-standard displays earlier in the season cost us our League One status, not the last few games.
Whatever they think of the manager and his methods, the players have to show the required levels of effort and commitment to justify their salaries and on too many occasions this season that has been lacking, which is inexcusable.
Thoughts now turn to the future and who will lead the Pirates as they begin the challenge of getting out of League Two as quickly as possible.
Campbell has already thrown his name in the hat by declaring his interest to continue in the job.
He has the support of the players, likes to play passing football and has the respect of all Gasheads. But doubts remain about whether he has the contacts and knowledge of players to ensure a successful player recruitment process in the summer and he also still has much to offer as a player.
The alternative would be to appoint a manager from outside who has experience at managing at this level and the ability to attract players to the club.
After enduring a torrid season, fans are desperate for signs that the club is heading in the right direction and it is crucial that the board makes the right decision this time.
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