It’s the week of the new season for Bristol Rovers with the 2023/24 League One campaign beginning against Portsmouth.
Saturday, August 5, is when the fun begins again, and there’s some expectation among the fan base that a play-off push is in the offing. Joey Barton has had a fairly satisfiable transfer window and there will be more signings to come.
Fans however won’t want to be reminded that the Gas have the longest winless streak when it comes to opening day wins. Rovers haven’t won in their last 11 opening day games, and as tests come, Pompey away without your manager who is suspended, is a tough ask.
Saturday, August 6 2011, is the last time Rovers won on the opening day. Adam Virgo’s 85th-minute penalty beat AFC Wimbledon, who were making their EFL debut. It was the dream start for Paul Buckle with Scott McGleish putting Rovers ahead before Matt Harrold doubled the lead. Jamie Stuart pulled one back for the Dons and then Charles Ademeno equalsed, but after a handball in the box, Virgo got a penalty and scored it.
Rovers had been busy in the transfer market, and there were 10 debutants in total in the side. Are you interested to see what became of them and what they’re up to now? Below are the 11 players and three substitutes who featured in that win over Wimbledon. Do you think Rovers can end the winless streak and beat Portsmouth? Let us know in the comments, as we bring you all the pre-match talk ahead of the trip to Hampshire.
1. Scott Bevan
Bevan is now the goalkeeping coach at Wolves’ Under-21’s. His playing career finished in 2014, having made 41 appearances for the Gas. He also held roles at Birmingham City, and the Philippines national team. Photo: Ben Hoskins/Getty Images
2. Michael Smith
Smith is hoping to earn a contract at Cheltenham Town after being released by Hearts. The 34-year-old made 114 appearances for the Gas and moved on to Peterborough United in 2014. Photo: Harry Engels/Getty Images)
3. Bryon Anthony
Back at the club helping make the stars of the future. He’s 38-years-old now, and the academy manager at the Quarters. He made 190 appearances for the club, and retired as a player with Newport County in 2014. Photo: Getty Images
4. Adam Virgo
He does some commentary with TNT Sport for the National League, and also offers his opinion on the EFL to ITV. He made 23 appearances for Rovers in two seasons. Photo: 2, 2008 in Northampton, England. (Photo by Pete Norton/Getty Image