One of local football's most popular players, Rob Cousins, reached a thousand senior appearances last year when he turned out for Paulton Rovers.

The 39-year-old, who can also name Yeovil Town, Forest Green, Bath City and Mangotsfield United among his former clubs has been rewarded for the achievement with a prestige friendly against Championship side Bristol City.

City, for whom Rob made a single appearance at the beginning of his career, look set to bring a strong side for the fixture which will be played tonight at Paulton Rovers ground in Winterfield Road.

Rob, speaking to www.ytfc.net said "I've thoroughly enjoyed my career and intend to carry on as long as I can. I feel fit enough to continue and I have recently moved to Yate Town in order to keep on playing. I had previously been offered a primarily coaching-based role but I'd rather still play while I can."

There should be a glittering array of players on both sides to mark the wonderful milestone with former Glovers Dean Birkby, Tony Pounder, Howard Forinton, Jerry Gill and Leroy Whale set to play with the possibility of former Yeovil Town manager Graham Roberts making an appearance along with current boss Terry Skiverton pencilled in to play.

They will all appear in the second half to follow a first half containing a Paulton Rovers side against what looks like a strong City side. With the international break in full swing and City's injury list shortening by the week, there may be the chance to see some of their recovering stars.

Also set to turn out for the second half are Rob's team mates from his other clubs including Steve Perrin, Dave Mogg, Adie Mings, Grantley Dicks and Billy Clark.

Yeovil fans of a certain vintage will remember Rob's consistently impressive displays at centre half in the late nineties when he played more than 200 games over four seasons scoring three goals and won the ICIS League title in his first season at Huish Park.

Rob added "It would be great to see as many familiar faces at Paulton's ground that night to make it an evening for me to treasure. Admission is just £5 for adults and £2.50 for senior citizens and children so come along and have a great night and celebrate my milestone."

Paulton's ground can be found at Winterfield Road, Paulton, near Bristol. BS39 7RF.