Cheltenham Town sign loan duo

ACTING boss John Schofield added two more players to his squad before yesterday's 5pm deadline for loan signings.

Bristol Rovers' highly-rated right sided player David Pipe and young Blackpool central defender Ashley Eastham will join the Robins for training today and go into the squad for next Tuesday's trip to Torquay United.

Cheltenham are without a match tomorrow due to their early exit in the FA Cup first round at Torquay.

Wales international Pipe is a powerful and direct wide player, who is also comfortable at right-back - a position that has been troublesome for Cheltenham all season.

The 26-year-old has not appeared for Rovers since being arrested after an alleged incident in Bristol city centre and he remains on police bail.

Pipe signed for the Pirates in July 2007 in a £50,000 move from Notts County.

He was suspended indefinitely by Rovers in September, but Schofield says he was given a glowing reference by ex-County boss Steve Thompson.

"I have done my homework on David and people can't speak highly enough of him as a lad and as a hardworking foot soldier of a player," Schofield said.

"He is also versatile enough to play in the centre of midfield as well as on the right so he will be a valuable addition to the squad.

"He has a good pedigree at both League One and League Two level having tasted promotion with Bristol Rovers.

"He will give us some important experience and further competition for places."

Pipe had made 10 appearances this season for Rovers before his arrest.

He has also represented Coventry City, making more than 20 appearances for the Sky Blues.

The up and coming Eastham, 18, will provide defensive cover with Michael Townsend and Lee Ridley both sidelined with calf injuries.

Eastham, 6ft 3ins, is a product of the Blackpool youth system and spent time on loan at Blue Square North club Hyde United earlier this term.

An experienced free agent has also been invited to train with the Robins and a deal could still be struck, due to the player in question not being bound by transfer window regulations.

Schofield has made four additions since taking over from suspended manager Martin Allen and the ex-Lincoln City boss is now odds-on favourite to fill the role on a permanent basis when Allen's departure is confirmed.

He guided the Robins to their first win in 12 matches on Tuesday night when Barnet were defeated 5-1, equalling the club's highest home Football League victory. Schofield led Lincoln City to the League Two play-offs in 2007,