In Focus: Ipswich Town (League Cup R1)

In time for the new football season which begins on Tuesday I'm going to start up a new feature that gives Gasheads exclusive content from the view of the opposition to complete their pre-match preparation. This will go live before every league and cup clash Rovers play this season to offer a greater lowdown on the team we are about to face.

The feature will be from the perspective of an opposition supporter (in this case Ipswich Town) and they can talk about any thoughts, predictions and hopes they have for the game itself and can offer some advice to Rovers fans should we be playing them away from home. They may explain who they feel can prove a key player for them in the game, players who may be unavailable due to suspension or injury and what they expect from Rovers - both on the field and off it.

In the first edition of this new feature Ipswich Town fan Todd Styman talks ahead of our Capital One Cup game at Portman Road on Tuesday evening:

"There is suddenly a huge amount of importance being placed on the first round of the league cup by Paul Jewell this season. For two main reasons: firstly, the season hasn't actually started, so it's a chance to for the new signings to gel with other players and use it as one final pre season game! Secondly, Jewell messed around in the cup last year, especially the first round of the league cup. We were knocked out by Northampton at home, with a much changed side, which stopped the flow of the team who had gelled well on the opening day of the season. Don't get me wrong, we don't think we can with the tournament, but it is no reason to disrespect it. The 2010/11 season saw us get to the semi's and beat Arsenal in the first leg, showing what can be achieved in this tournament. Therefore I believe we will have a full strength team out and the game should be a cracker!

Manager Paul Jewell

Our main threat to you will be Michael Chopra, who, when given the chance, has been deadly throughout his career. He had a troubled year last year, but still scored 14. He has looked sharp in pre season with 6 goals in 7 games. Lee Martin and new loan signing Massimo Luongo have been pulling the strings in midfield and will look to take control of the game. Young wingers, JET and Josh Carson will give us the width. 

Portman Road

Our defence has been an utter shambles in the past season and although it may be completely different this season, after 4 new arrivals, it is still our weak link! The best way for Rovers to come out of this game with anything will be to defend well and not be scared to attack us! The crowd will definitely expect an easy game, which again is one of Ipswich's major problems. It will ultimately lead to a quiet stadium if we don't start well. 

Transport..

I'm guessing most of you will drive.. car parks are quite high in number by the ground, usually not too badly priced. They're usually free after 6 if you find the right one.

If you're getting the train then the ground is a 5 minute walk from the station. 

Food..

Don't get food in the ground unless you wanna buy overpriced snacks. The tea is ridiculously priced too! Pies are nice... but pricey!

Drink..

There are plenty of pubs, the main away one is right next the train station!!

Good luck with the season!!"  

Follow Todd on Twitter; @toddycounago - could be good value pre-match!

Ipswich Town vs Bristol Rovers - Portman Road - CO Cup - KO: 7.45pm