Where to Watch Bristol Rovers vs Mansfield Town: BBC Radio Bristol Commentary Team Revealed

Football fans looking to follow Bristol Rovers' League One clash against Mansfield Town on March 29, 2025 at 15:00 UK time will need to tune into BBC Radio Bristol for live coverage. The match won't be televised in the UK, making radio the primary way for supporters to follow the action.

The commentary team for this crucial League One encounter features two familiar voices to Bristol Rovers supporters. Leading the coverage will be main commentator Alistair Durden, with former Rovers player Lee Mansell providing expert co-commentary and analysis.

Meet the BBC Radio Bristol Commentary Team

Alistair Durden has been the voice of Bristol Rovers on BBC Radio Bristol for over a decade. The experienced broadcaster joined the station in 2012 after working in local radio across the South West. Durden's passionate commentary style and in-depth knowledge of the Gas has made him a favourite among the Pirates' faithful.

Alongside Durden in the commentary box will be former Bristol Rovers midfielder Lee Mansell. The 42-year-old made over 100 appearances for Rovers between 2012-2016 before moving into coaching. Mansell's playing career spanned nearly 20 years, including lengthy spells at Torquay United and Luton Town before joining Rovers. Since retiring, he's become a regular pundit on BBC Radio Bristol's football coverage, offering insightful tactical analysis drawn from his extensive Football League experience.

How to Listen to the Coverage

Fans can tune into BBC Radio Bristol on FM frequencies across the Bristol area, or listen online via the BBC Sounds website. The coverage typically begins 30 minutes before kick-off with pre-match build-up, team news and interviews.

For those unable to access BBC Radio Bristol, the EFL's iFollow service provides live audio commentary for both clubs, though this requires a subscription. International viewers should check local broadcast listings as some overseas networks may carry the match.

The Importance of the Fixture

This League One encounter could prove crucial at both ends of the table come the end of the season. Bristol Rovers, under manager Matt Taylor, will be looking to push towards the playoff places, while Mansfield Town, managed by Nigel Clough, may be fighting for automatic promotion or a top-six finish.

The reverse fixture earlier in the season ended in a 2-2 draw at Field Mill, setting up an intriguing rematch at the Memorial Stadium. With both teams known for their attacking football, listeners can expect an entertaining encounter expertly called by Durden and Mansell.

Alternative Ways to Follow the Match

For those who prefer written updates, the Bristol Rovers official website and Mansfield Town official website will provide live text commentary. Social media platforms like Twitter will also have updates from journalists and fan accounts covering the match.

While Sky Sports and TNT Sports cover selected EFL matches, this fixture wasn't chosen for television broadcast, making BBC Radio Bristol's coverage the primary live option for most supporters. The station has built a strong reputation for its comprehensive coverage of Bristol Rovers matches throughout the season.

What to Expect From the Commentary

Listeners can anticipate Durden's trademark excited goal calls and Mansell's tactical insights, particularly when analysing midfield battles - the area where he excelled as a player. Their chemistry developed over several seasons working together brings an engaging dynamic to the broadcast.

The pair will also provide pre-match and half-time analysis, with likely contributions from other BBC Radio Bristol journalists reporting from the ground. Post-match, expect interviews with both managers and key players, plus immediate reaction to the result.

For Bristol Rovers and Mansfield Town supporters, or neutral fans of League One football, BBC Radio Bristol's coverage promises to be the next best thing to being at the Memorial Stadium for this important clash.