However, both goals came as a result as poor defending. United had ample opportunity to clear the ball before Astafjevs volleyed in the equalising goal, and Cliff Byrne conceded the free-kick which Wayne Carlisle put in the top corner.
"We allowed Bristol Rovers back in the game when it was all over really," admitted Laws, "up until then we were superb, we worked hard, got our tackles in, and looked threatening.
"We planned to be solid and that last five minutes was unrecognisable, we didn't get our clearances right and we allowed them to get crosses into our box.
"You could expect any team to throw balls into the box in the last ten minutes if you are losing, but I would expect my team to be able to deal with them."
Bristol Rovers manager Ray Graydon meanwhile hailed the hard-work of his players.
"We played against a very good Scunthorpe side, who had much of the game. But we showed we were capable of scoring on the break, and we've kept a tight reign on their dangerous players," he said.
"It was a team effort today, and I wouldn't say a single player won it for us.
"The players and fans deserve the victory today, they players because of all the hard work and commitment they've put in over the last five games, and the fans because they've stuck with us all the way and backed us in every game."