Rovers took the lead in the 12th minute when Zech Obiero capitalised on a loose pass, drove forward and fired left-footed beyond Jacob Chapman.

They almost doubled their lead soon after but Joe Ironside saw a fierce effort from six yards crash against the crossbar.

Crawley’s best chance to respond fell to Ronan Darcy, who found himself in space with only Marko Marosi to beat, but the goalkeeper produced a vital save.

The hosts were awarded a penalty just before the interval when Charlie Whitaker was brought down by Geraldo Bajrami and Ironside converted from the spot to secure just a fourth win at home in the league this season for Rovers.

Crosby, whose side had not tasted victory since New Year’s Day, said: ”It’s a good feeling as it’s been a while with the run of results we’ve been on.

“We looked like a group who were one hundred percent committed today to the task who played with real energy and enthusiasm.

“We tweaked one or two things in terms of how we pressed and the first goal came from one of those moments when we managed to get high pressure on the ball.

“Zech Obiero has impressed everyone in his first outing in front of the home supporters today and they saw a player of real good energy and quality, so that was pleasing for him.

“Joe Ironside also showed real good confidence to take that penalty just before half time and dispatch it.

“I thought we defended our box really well today and defended wide areas really well to stop crosses coming in.

“It’s credit to all the players and all the staff for sticking together through difficult moments because you get questioned and you get doubted, but we stood together and responded.”

Crawley manager Scott Lindsey, after seeing his team lose their third game on the spin, said: “We didn’t show enough fight, desire, passion or determination to win the game, especially in the first half.

“The second half was different and we had a bit of a go, but it was too little, too late on reflection.

“We were second best to every second ball and gave away two really ridiculous goals.

“I just do not understand the first-half performance. Then I think it’s easy to start looking like you’re showing some desire in that second half.

“We attacked them and probably had more shots and more chances and we went for it but it was too little, too late.

“We’ve played half a game again, in my opinion and we are in it. The quicker we realise it, the more chance we have of getting 90 minutes out of the players rather than 45.

“I take responsibility as I’m the manager and it’s on me. I’m disappointed as it was a dogfight today and we lost it.”