PREVIEW: Bristol Rovers

It`s derby Saturday at the County Ground Saturday as Swindon Town entertain local rivals Bristol Rovers in Coca Cola League One.

Like Swindon, Rovers were promoted to League One last season however they had to do it the hard way by winning the playoff final at Wembley Stadium.

It is understood that Rovers fans will be housed on the Stratton Bank only to ensure we do not have a repeat of the scenes last season where both sets of fans launched seats at each other in the Arkells Stand. Expect a huge police presence at tomorrows clash.

Vital Quotes:

‘If we can get three points on Saturday, with our game in hand, things will certainly look a lot rosier.’

Swindon Town manager Paul Sturrock

Swindon Town Team News:

Town`s off the field problems have affected the performances on the pitch according to Sturrock howver after last weekends battle at Leeds, Sturrock feels the club has turned a corner. Swindon Town will be without defender Jamie Vincent and Goalkeeper Phil Smith. Jack Smith, Hasney Aljofree and Jerel Ifil will all face late fitness tests before the match.

Player to watch: Peter Brezovan

Peter Brezovan started off a bit shaky when he returned to the first team however at Leeds he looked as if he was finally starting to rediscover the form that made him a force last season. Brezovan missed last season`s derby`s against Bristol Rovers and will be looking to continue and build on his confidence.

Bristol Rovers Team News:

Bristol Rovers have had a week to prepare for this match after their FA Cup replay against Leyton Orient was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch at the Memorial Stadium. This ended up being good news for Bristol Rovers as Central defender Steve Elliott, left-back Chris Carruthers and midfielder Sammy Igoe were all doubts ahead of the replay but now could find themselves in contention for the derby against Swindon.

Player to watch: Rickie Lambert

Rickie Lambert put Town`s promotion hopes on hold last season at the Memorial Stadium and will be looking to de-rail Town`s second successive promotion push even more so on Saturday.

Match Facts & Stats

The last time the 2 teams met was on the second last day of the League 2 season last year. Town needed just a draw for Promotion however a Rickie Lambert goal gave Rovers a 1-0 win at the Memorial Stadium and thus putting Town`s promotion on hold for one more week.

Match Prediction:

Swindon Town have been very good at home this season and with the atmosphere from a local derby we expect the same. 3-1 Swindon Town win.

Next Fixtures:

FA Cup Sponsored by E.ON – Round 2 – Swindon Town V Forest Green Rovers, Saturday 1 December 2007, 3pm kick off.