Port Vale v Bristol Rovers: Where to Watch, Listen and Who’s Commentating on BBC Radio

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This match took place on 6 December 2025.
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Port Vale v Bristol Rovers: Where to Watch, Listen and Who’s Commentating on BBC Radio

Football fans across the West Country and the Potteries are tuning in for an intriguing FA Cup Second Round clash as Port Vale host Bristol Rovers at Vale Park on Saturday, 6 December 2025. With both clubs looking to progress in the world’s oldest knockout competition, supporters unable to make the trip to Stoke-on-Trent can still follow the action live via BBC local radio and online platforms. Here’s everything you need to know about where to listen, who’s commentating, and what to expect from the broadcast team.

How to Follow Port Vale v Bristol Rovers

While this FA Cup tie is not being shown live on BBC TV or any of the major UK broadcasters such as ITV, Sky Sports or TNT Sports, fans can still enjoy live audio coverage through several BBC outlets. The match kicks off at 15:00 UK time and is being broadcast on three BBC local radio stations, as well as via the BBC Sounds app and BBC Sport online.

  • BBC Radio Bristol (DAB) – Live commentary for Bristol Rovers fans
  • BBC Radio Somerset (MW) – Also carrying the Bristol Rovers perspective
  • BBC Radio Stoke (DAB) – The local station for Port Vale, providing home coverage
  • BBC Sounds app – Streaming live audio from both commentary teams
  • BBC Sport Online (Audio) – Live stream and updates via the BBC Sport website

Whether you’re in the car, at work or following the game on your phone, these platforms ensure that supporters of both clubs can stay connected to every pass, tackle and goal.

Meet the BBC Radio Commentary Team

The BBC’s local radio coverage is known for its passionate, knowledgeable and club-specific commentary, and this FA Cup tie is no different. Two distinct commentary teams are on duty, reflecting the regional split between the Potteries and the West Country.

Richard Hoskin – Presenter (BBC Radio Bristol & BBC Radio Somerset)

Leading the Bristol Rovers coverage is Richard Hoskin, a familiar and trusted voice for Gasheads. Hoskin has been a mainstay of BBC Radio Bristol’s sports output for many years, regularly presenting live football coverage for Bristol City and Bristol Rovers. His calm, detailed style and deep understanding of the local game make him a popular choice for FA Cup ties and league fixtures alike. On Saturday, he’ll be guiding listeners through the build-up, half-time analysis and post-match reaction, ensuring Rovers fans don’t miss a moment.

Chris Spittles – Main Commentator (BBC Radio Bristol & BBC Radio Somerset)

On the commentary mic for the Bristol Rovers perspective is Chris Spittles, a seasoned football commentator with a strong background in covering the lower leagues. Spittles has built a reputation for his clear, energetic descriptions and his ability to capture the drama of cup football. His voice is well known to fans of BBC local radio, and he’s often called upon for key FA Cup and EFL fixtures. Expect vivid, real-time descriptions of every chance and tackle from Vale Park.

Lee Mansell – Co-commentator (BBC Radio Bristol & BBC Radio Somerset)

Providing expert insight alongside Spittles is former Bristol Rovers midfielder Lee Mansell. Mansell enjoyed a long and successful playing career, making over 200 appearances for Rovers between 2008 and 2015, and also playing for clubs like Torquay United and Exeter City. His experience in League One and League Two, combined with his understanding of Rovers’ style and mentality, makes him an ideal co-commentator. Fans will appreciate his tactical observations and honest assessments of the team’s performance.

Lucas Yeomans – Presenter (BBC Radio Stoke & BBC Sounds)

For Port Vale supporters, the home coverage comes via Lucas Yeomans on BBC Radio Stoke. Yeomans is a key figure in the station’s sports coverage, regularly fronting live football broadcasts and providing in-depth analysis of Vale’s matches. His familiarity with the club, its players and its fanbase ensures that the coverage is tailored to the Valiants’ faithful, with a strong focus on the significance of an FA Cup run for a club of Vale’s size.

Phil Bowers – Main Commentator (BBC Radio Stoke & BBC Sounds)

On the commentary line for BBC Radio Stoke is Phil Bowers, a respected local commentator with years of experience covering Port Vale and Stoke City. Bowers is known for his passionate, accurate and atmospheric descriptions, particularly in high-stakes or cup matches. His voice has become synonymous with Vale Park for many fans, and his live commentary will bring the FA Cup tie to life for listeners across Staffordshire and beyond.

Adam Yates – Co-commentator (BBC Radio Stoke & BBC Sounds)

Joining Bowers in the commentary box is former Port Vale defender Adam Yates. Yates made over 200 appearances for the club between 2001 and 2007, playing under managers like Brian Horton and Martin Foyle. His time at Vale gives him a deep understanding of the club’s culture and expectations, and as a co-commentator he brings a player’s eye for detail, discussing positioning, set-pieces and in-game decisions with authority. His insights will be particularly valuable as Vale look to navigate a tricky cup tie against a fellow League One side.

What to Expect from the Match

Port Vale and Bristol Rovers have a long-standing rivalry, having met frequently in League One and League Two in recent years. Their last league meeting in March 2024 ended 2–0 to Vale, but Rovers have had their moments too, including a 3–0 win at the Memorial Stadium in October 2023. This FA Cup clash at Vale Park promises to be fiercely contested, with both teams eager to avoid an early exit and potentially dream of a lucrative third-round tie.

For Port Vale, manager Darren Moore will be hoping to build on recent form and use home advantage to progress. Bristol Rovers, under their own manager, will look to their attacking players to exploit any gaps in Vale’s defence and aim for an upset on the road. With FA Cup history, local pride and potential financial rewards at stake, expect a tense, competitive encounter.

How to Listen Live

To follow the match live:

Whether you’re backing the Valiants or the Gas, the BBC’s local radio teams will ensure you don’t miss a moment of the action from Vale Park.

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