Bristol Rovers returned to the Mem for the first time since their promotion heroics 10 weeks ago, and they did so in some style on Tuesday night. Joey Barton's Gas were worthy winners against a Stoke City side nearing full strength.
The 2-0 win against Championship opposition was a near-ideal end to Rovers' pre-season campaign, with Aaron Collins' missed penalty and the smattering of players who missed out with knocks and illness the only sources of minor disappointment for Barton.
Aden Flint's own goal and a clinical counter rounded off by substitute Harvey Saunders clinched victory for the Gas, who were in impressive form in their final game before the visit of Forest Green Rovers on July 30.
