Byron Anthony says Rovers will need to be on top form to guard against the dangers of Crystal Palace this evening.

The defender is expecting a tough match from the early Championship pace-setters, and knows that any little defensive slip has the potential to be severely punished.

Palace began their 2007/08 campaign with an emphatic 4-1 win over Southampton, and Byron is wary of the threats they'll pose tonight.

"They had a great win against Southampton, so we know we're going to have to raise our level," Byron told bristolrovers.co.uk, "But I'm sure we can do that, as we showed in cup competitions last season.

"The games against Bristol City, Bournemouth, Derby and Doncaster have put us in good stead for League One, and also for cup matches like this.

"We know Palace are a quality side, with good players all over the park. Their movement will be that much wiser, and if you give their front men half an inch they'll hit the target and punish you.

"We'll have to be on our toes if we want to stand a chance against them, but you never know in the Carling Cup, and it will be interesting to see what kind of team they put out.

"Every cup game you play you want to win, and to make it through to the next round. Palace will be a good test for us, and it will be another step up in terms of ability for us to compete with.

"Hopefully we'll be able to overcome them with home advantage, and I think going into the match we're all confident we can give them a good game."