Substitute Harry Clifton notched the only goal of the game late on as Grant McCann's side moved into the automatic promotion spots.
James Maxwell produced a daisycutter that warmed the gloves of Harrogate's James Belshaw in a tame first half. The visitors had better sighters of goal in truth: Ted Sharman-Lowe produced a fine save to keep out an acrobatic attempt from Josh March from close-range and was in the right spot to clutch an Anthony O'Connor header from a free-kick.
Oliver Sanderson then blazed over a better chance for the visitors, after evading Charlie Crew in the box.
Rovers toiled second half and just when it looked as though it would end goalless, Clifton popped up with the winner - albeit thanks to a slice of luck as the ball squirmed under Harrogate's James Belshaw.
Here's how we rated the Rovers' players:
13. Rob Street 6
His physical strength was important, especially as they held out late on. Photo: Craig Hawkhead/AHPIX LTD
14. Billy Sharp 5`
Tried a few neat flick-ons as Rovers freshened it up in the second half Photo: Craig Hawkhead
15. Jordan Gibson 7
Was on for the last ten in place of Crew as Rovers chased down the win. Provided the assist for Clifton Photo: Howard Roe/AHPIX LTD