Struggling Bristol Rovers turned on the style to surprise high-flying Tranmere 2-0 and haul themselves further away from the League One drop zone.

The visitors were also denied by the woodwork on no less than three occasions as they proved to be full value for their fifth away victory of the season.

Andy Williams fired the Pirates ahead with a neat finish in the 12th minute when set up by fellow strike partner Rickie Lambert.

David Pipe volleyed against a post from 20 yards five minutes later and then Lambert hit the outside of a post from the edge of the penalty area shortly before the break.

The away side doubled their lead in the 58th minute when Lambert reacted well to stab the ball home following a long throw in.

Tranmere never really looked like saving the game and Pirates substitute Craig Disley was the third visiting player to be denied by a post in the 82nd minute.

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