South Gloucestershire | Archive | 2005 | July | 29
From the Gazette, first published Friday 29th Jul 2005.
A CENTURY ago Rovers and City regularly played each other in a season opener - and now it is likely it will all happen again after the success of Monday's pre-season affair at the Memorial Stadium.
Both managers agreed it had been a friendly with a bit of bite, the players enjoyed it - and the clubs made some money with a 6,572 gate.
City won 1-0, Grant Smith lashing home a corker on the hour but only after Rovers had virtually stopped playing, with Richard Walker on his back in the centre circle, and expecting the ball to be put out of play. It was the only moment of contention in a game which in the second half developed into a thriller despite the advent of umpteen changes.
Rovers were denied by Steve Philips more than once, while City's predatory instincts almost grabbed a second twice late on. Ryan Williams proved a real menace down the left when he came on as Rovers dramatically improved on a disappointing first half showing.
Rovers had trial 'keeper Shaun Marshall, formerly of Cambridge United, to thank for the late saves, but he could miss out with this week's signing from Coventry City of Scott Shearer, on loan at Rushden and Diamonds last season. Matt Somner, also from Cambridge, also impressed.
A busy pre-season continues tomorrow at Kidderminster, with further games at Moor Green on Monday and Mangotsfield on Tuesday as Rovers prepare for the Coca Cola League Two opener at Conference champions Barnet on August 6.
Matches began with a 1-1 draw at Birmingham City in what was effectively a pre-pre-season run-out, followed by a 2-0 defeat at Aldershot Town and a 3-0 success at Clevedon Town. At the weekend Rovers won 3-2 at Hereford United and 4-3 at Bromsgrove Rovers with a young side. Games were also scheduled against Team Bath on Wednesday and Bath City last night.
With most of last season's regulars still at the club, Rovers will be looking to build significantly on their performances this time, with greater consistency a vital component in the battle to escape the bottom division. Frankly Rovers have to be - and ought to be - good enough to be challenging for a top three spot. There seems no good reason why they should not be.
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