Blizzard to miss pre-season trip

Blizzard is only one of two signings Rovers have made in the close season

New signing Dominic Blizzard will miss Bristol Rovers' pre-season trip to Devon this weekend after failing to recover from an illness.

The 25-year-old midfielder signed from Stockport last week but has been suffering from a virus.

The Pirates are playing newly-promoted League Two side Torquay United on Saturday, a former club of first-team coach Paul Trollope.

It is a repeat of last year's pre-season fixture which ended up 1-1.

"It was a very competitive game. I think they edged it and were the better on the day," Trollope told BBC Radio Bristol.

"[Manager] Paul Buckle's done a fantastic job done there. They deserve to be back in the Football League."

Rovers then take on Cheltenham Town, Crystal Palace and Hereford United before finishing off their pre-season campaign with a home match against a Liverpool XI on 3 August.

"They all represent tests. We're happy with the blend we've got," added Trollope.

"The main thing is when we come out the other end we've got a competitive edge that means we start the season well."