STANLEY boss John Coleman says it is no surprise to him that tomorrow’s opponents, Bristol Rovers, are up there as fellow promotion challengers.

The Gas are experiencing a bounce following promotion via the Vanarama Conference play-offs last season.

After a mixed first half of the season, which included a 1-0 home defeat to Accrington, a run of one defeat in 10 - including six wins - has propelled them up the table into fourth spot.

“Their manager (Darrell Clarke) has done a really good job,” said Coleman.

“Earlier on in the season when we played them he was feeling a little bit down, and I reminded him how well he and done to get them there in the first place to get them where they were.

“It’s no surprise he has turned it around.

“It’s a big club, Bristol Rovers, and they could certainly compete in the division above.

“Apart from when we play them on Saturday I hope they do as well as they can."