Crawley Town V Bristol Rovers at Checkatrade.com Stadium : Match Preview

17 December 2013 16:01
Crawley Town V Bristol Rovers - view commentary, squad, and statistics of the game live.


Crawley skipper eyes cup comeback

John Gregory will go in search of his first win in charge of Crawley when they host Bristol Rovers in their FA Cup second-round replay at the Broadfield Stadium.


Having drawn his only two matches in charge so far, the former Aston Villa boss will hope to welcome back skipper Josh Simpson after the 26-year-old missed the weekend draw against Preston with a hamstring problem.


Midfielder Mike Jones returned from a similar injury against Simon Grayson's men but, after having to make do with a place on the bench, will be hoping to make his 19th start of the season in all competitions.


After falling two goals behind on Saturday, defender James Hurst was withdrawn early as Gregory opted to change his system and his replacement, Andy Drury, will be hoping to have done enough to earn a recall to the starting XI.


Mark McChrystal is unlikely to return to action for Bristol Rovers. The centre-back rejoined his team-mates for training on Monday morning having suffered from tendinitis in his knee but this cup clash looks to have come too soon for the 29-year-old.


Long-term injury absentees Jim Paterson and Danny Woodards are also back in full training but the pair need some matches under their belt before being considered for first-team action.


Defender Garry Kenneth left the club my mutual consent on Tuesday and will therefore also not be involved, although he was unlikely to feature.


Saturday's 2-1 defeat at Morecambe was Rovers' first loss in 10 and they will head to Crawley as underdogs despite drawing 0-0 in the original tie.


Source: PA