All the info for those going to Bristol Rovers on Friday night.

Saints travel to the Memorial  Stadium for their second visit after the last FA Cup debacle in 2008, older Saints fans will of course remember Eastville, our last appearance there, also an FA Cup tie in 1978, the Bristol branch of IKEA now stands on the site of the ground, in between those two grounds Rovers played out of the City, sharing Twerton Park in Bath with its owners Bath City.

Rovers have been playing at the Memorial since 1996 when they moved in with Bristol Rugby Club who owned the ground, when the Rugby Club experienced financial difficulty in 1998, Rovers purchassed it from them and the tenants then became landlords.

Since then the ground has been slowly improved although iits still a hotch potch of stands etc, Rovers had intended to develope the ground two years ago into an 18,500 capacity stadium, however they havent been able to finance the project and its unclear if and when it will go ahead.

So for the meantime they are stuck where they are in the 12,000 capacity Memorial Stadium.

Away Section  

Saints allocation is split into two, firstly some seating in a somewhat temporary structure behind the goal and then open terracing on one side of the ground, for those standing they had better hope it doesnt rain as it is completely open to the elements.

Getting There

Saints fans going by car should take the M4 exiting at Junction 19 and on to the M32, they can then either take the first exit on to the A4174 towards Filton and then turn left on to the A38,  or stay on to Junction 2 then exiting north towards Horfield. The ground is just off the A38.

Parking 

Although there is a car park at the ground, space will be limited, however there is plenty of street parking in the area, just make sure there are no temporary restrictions in place.

Drinking 

Rovers fans have a reputation for tolerating away supporters rather than welcoming them, meaning that you shouldnt have too many problems providing you arent abusive yourself, however there are some places to be avoided, the John Cabot Pub being a prime example.

On the main A38 Gloucester road there are a few pubs, The Victoria being one that allows away supporters, the Wellington on the A38 if you come in following our first route is another away fan friendly pub and also has parking.

Further afield there is the Cricket ground, around a 10 minute walk away, the Annexe Inn is recommended for those liking real ale.

Photo: Action Images via Reuters