Bristol Rovers have named an unchanged starting lineup for their Sky Bet League Two match against Colchester United. Manager Steve Evans keeps faith with the eleven that secured a 2-0 victory over Crawley Town last time out.
Colchester United travel to The Memorial Stadium sitting eighth in the League Two table. They have taken seven points from their opening four games, with a record of two wins, one draw and one loss. Their recent form reads LWWD, and they have scored five goals while conceding five, leaving them with a zero goal difference. The visitors are currently two points behind the league leaders, Bristol Rovers.
Steve Evans has selected the same defensive unit that kept a clean sheet against Crawley. Brad Young starts in goal behind a back line of Riley Harbottle, Kofi Balmer, and Ben Purrington. Tom James, who scored in the previous win, will aim for a second consecutive shutout. Captain Richie Smallwood anchors the midfield alongside Clinton Mola, with James Forde and Bobby Kamwa providing width. Jevani Cavegn leads the attack.
The substitutes bench includes Binns, Kelly, Russell-Denny, Sanyaolu, Aitchison, Harrison, and Quigley. Philip Sanyaolu was an unused substitute in the last match and will be hoping to make his league debut if called upon. Fans can view the full squad details on our squad page.
The visitors, Colchester United, have also named their starting eleven and substitutes. Their lineup features Lo-Tulata in goal, with a defensive unit of Hunt, Iandolo, Tucker, and Digby. Anderson, Payne, Williams, Ragget, Terry, and Thorn complete the outfield starters.
Manager Danny Cowley has options on the bench, including Smith, Ihionvien, Sesay, Kouassi, Vincent-Young, and Kuffour Jr. This match represents a key early-season test for both sides as they look to build momentum. The current league standings show how tight the division is at this stage.
Choosing an unchanged side signals confidence from Evans in his players after a positive result. The continuity allows partnerships to develop, particularly in defence where a second clean sheet is the target. Tom James and Bobby Kamwa, the goalscorers from the Crawley game, will look to carry that threat forward again.
Maintaining a settled lineup can be beneficial for rhythm, but it also places pressure on those on the bench to push for inclusion. The upcoming fixtures schedule is demanding, so squad depth will be tested. This selection suggests Evans believes his best available eleven is the one that performed last week.
The match kicks off at The Memorial Stadium, where Bristol Rovers will look to defend their position at the top of League Two. Colchester United's starting midfielder, Williams, wears the number eight shirt.
