Bristol Rovers to Rotate Squad for Jersey Mike's Trophy Match vs Reading
Manager Steve Evans indicates wholesale changes are coming as the club prepares for a crucial League Two fixture against Chesterfield.
By Naomi Tesfaye ·
Bristol Rovers are set to make extensive personnel changes as they host Reading at the Memorial Stadium tonight. The League Two side enters this Jersey Mike's Trophy contest as its second of three matches scheduled within an eight day period.
The team secured a 2 to 0 victory over Cambridge United in the FA Cup earlier this week. Reiss Russell Denny and Fabrizio Cavagna scored the goals that advanced Rovers to the next round of that competition.
Despite the recent win, Rovers have already been eliminated from the current cup competition. The club suffered a penalty shootout defeat against Chelsea Under 21s and a 4 to 1 loss at Wycombe Wanderers in previous rounds.
Reading remains in contention for progression. The League One visitors must win by a four goal margin to advance on goal difference. This requirement stems from the position of the Chelsea Under 21s side, which currently sits second on that metric.
Manager Steve Evans confirmed the tactical approach in a post match interview following the Cambridge game. He told the club media team that the lineup would reflect the need to be ready for Chesterfield on Saturday.
Evans stated that a complete mix of players would be selected. He emphasized the importance of keeping key players fresh for the upcoming League Two clash against the Spireites.
Goalkeeper Charlie Binns is expected to start the match. The former Bath City keeper has started both of Rovers' matches in this competition this season. This decision allows Brad Young to retain his place in the lineup for FA Cup ties and league games.
In defense, Macauley Southam Hales will likely start at right back. He replaces Tom James, who has endured a heavy workload in the league. Ciaran Kelly and Ben Purrington are predicted to form the central defensive partnership.
Jack Sparkes is expected to start at left back. The 26 year old was substituted in the recent FA Cup match, and the coaching staff aims to keep him sharp for future fixtures. The team is likely to field a back four formation due to current personnel availability.
The midfield is projected to feature a double pivot of Stan Dunne and Ryan De Havilland. Dunne made his debut against Wycombe in October and is considered highly rated by the coaching staff. De Havilland has featured primarily in this competition this season while loan moves are explored.
In attack, Philip Sanyaolu is expected to start on the right wing. He has shown liveliness in recent substitute appearances. Shaq Forde may start in the number ten role, having been dropped in the last FA Cup match. Arvin Appiah is predicted to play on the left wing, a position he occupied during his debut.
Bobby Kamwa is the likely starter in the striker position. He returned from injury during the final 17 minutes of the Cambridge match. The manager aims to build his match fitness while ensuring he does not sustain a setback before Saturday's game.
