Last Saturday, Welling United visited Bristol Rovers. Seven days later, a quirk of the Conference scheduling sees the fixture reversed.

At Bristol last week, the Wings appeared to be comfortable in the first period but a double substitution at the break changed the game. The two replacements combined for the opening goal which was finished clinically by Nathan Blissett.

Jake Gallagher was dismissed for a challenge that was nothing compared to the tackles on Harry Beautyman a week earlier.  Welling submitted an appeal following a video review.

After that, Welling had little to offer and the Gas added a second when Matty Taylor netted from the spot having gone down in the area.

While Welling have had a week to recover and prepare for Saturday’s game, Bristol Rovers had a tough game at Wrexham on Tuesday. They claimed a good point in a nil-nil draw but lost goalkeeper Steve Mildenhall with an injury that may keep him out for a while. Former Salisbury City stopper, Will Puddy, is also out so Darrell Clarke will have someone else in on an emergency loan deal for the game at Park View Road.

Bristol Rovers are currently unbeaten in seven league games but will be aware of Welling’s good home record. Away from home, the Gas have won three, drawn six and lost three.

Jamie Day will sit out the game suspended as he picked up his fifth yellow card of the season at the Memorial Ground but Chris Bush and Ben Jefford should both be available.

There should be a good following from the West Country and there is always a buzz at Park View Road when there is a good attendance and Welling will be looking to use that atmosphere to start another good run.

Picture supplied by Dave Budden.