Opposition…
Harrogate Town will be hoping that the 2025/26 season concludes with a continuation of the EFL dream.
The Sulphurates have been enjoying life in Sky Bet League Two since winning the 2020 National League Play-off, thanks to a 3-1 victory against Notts County. Since then, Town have plied their trade in the fourth division of English football, slowly building and consolidating their standing.
A 4-0 victory away to Southend United in their very first English Football League match ever was more than even the most optimistic of Harrogate Town fan could dream of. Since then, Town have made the most of their campaigns competing at the new level, avoiding the drop and battling through to safety, including an 18th placed finish last season.
Manager Simon Weaver has been in the role since 2009. The former defender was appointed player-manager and has guided the team through the leagues since, with this contest against Bristol Rovers being his 785th in charge of the Sulphurates.
Six new signings have also been brought in to boost the squad. Forwards Shawn McCoulsky and Raace Smith have joined from Maidenhead United, as has attacker Mason Bennett from Burton Albion. A pair of centre-backs in Tom Bradbury and Lewis Cass have also made Exercise Stadium their new home, as has full-back Jack Evans.