Saints have drawn Bristol Rovers, Ironically on the 30th anniversary of our last competitive trip to Eastville. 

This isnt the first time Saints have had to travel to Bristol Rovers in the FA Cup although ironically the last time was on this day 28th January exactly 30 years ago, when a promotion chasing Saints visited Rovers then ground Eastville as favourites.

A two goal defeat in front of 26,574 including about 10,000 Saints fans was the result.

Saints did get their revenge though, again in the 4th round and this time at the Dell as Steve Moran (2) and Steve Williams scored to give Saints a 3-1 victory with 23,597 present  

 In the years that have passed since Saints and Rovers paths have gone in different directions, both have moved grounds of course with Rovers now in their second home since leaving Eastville, plotting up first at Bath City's Twerton Park before moving to the Memorial Ground, then owned by Bristol Rugby club.

But its going to be a tricky tie, the pitch is notorious as a quagmire and the key to the game could be on what sort of weather we have prior to the game, if its dry then hopefully the pitch wont cut up and saints can get a passing game going, however if its wet then its goig to be a nightmare and it will definately get Rovers spirits up and they will make it hard for Saints.

But in general Saints must feel pretty pleased about the draw, Rovers are the lowest ranked team in the competition and although a home tie would have been preferable it does present Saints with a great opportunity to progress, if we were going to have to play away then this is the best draw.

For those looking for Omens there are a few hopeful signs, in 1976 we beat a Lancashire side beginning with B at home in the 4th round and the last time we met Rovers in Bristol we got promoted.      

The full draw is. bristol rovers v SAINTS cardiff v wolves sheff utd v m'boro liverpool v barnsley man u v arsenal preston v skates coventry v west brom chelsea v huddersfield

Photo: Action Images

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