Football Rovers look set to face a stern test in crucial fixture

It might seem premature to call a game in November ‘must-win’ but Saturday's game against Cheltenham Town is certainly ‘must not lose’ for a Bristol Rovers side looking to avoid a seventh consecutive defeat in League Two.

- Will MURRAY

The two teams have already met this season, with Luke Thomas scoring the only goal of the game in the Vertu Trophy group stage in October.

Just over a month later, and Saturday’s clash already looks pivotal in the context of the Gas’ season. They sit only three points and three places above the relegation zone, occupied by the Robins and rock bottom Newport County, who yesterday appointed former Leicester City defender Christian Fuchs as manager following the sacking of David Hughes after their 1-0 defeat at Shrewsbury Town last Saturday.

Ahead of the short trip to the EV Charger Points Stadium, we spoke to Jon Palmer, Cheltenham Town writer for Gloucestershire Live, to discuss the Robins’ start to the season, Isaac Hutchinson, tips for away fans, and much more.

On deadline day, Hutchinson joined Cheltenham on loan from Rovers, with the club releasing a statement in early September condemning the abuse the midfielder and his family received.

Since making the switch to the Robins, Hutchinson has scored five goals in 11 appearances, helping the club pick up wins against the likes of Accrington Stanley, Fleetwood Town, Newport County, and Walsall in September and October.