I grew up in Southend and they are my second team. And it's my birthday next Saturday so I really wanted to go watch them at the Memorial today, especially now that one Mr Eastwood has returned. In fact, it's the second season in three that the Saturday immediately before my birthday has been Bristol Rovers vs Southend United, but I was in Birmingham that day in 2010 so I missed it too (forumites may know why I was in Birmingham - 'twas my first Challenge). But this time around I'm too tight on money to be able to afford the admission :cry: EDIT: Oh, come on, I've just realised I could have gotten in for £7! Not any more :cry:
Anyhow, lament over - forum duty calls. Splitting at Didcot Parkway is the best way to go, unless the Salisbury route appeals. Otherwise, the only advice I can give you relates to moving around Bristol on the day. As noted before, PlusBus is the way to go (£3.50). There are no direct buses between Temple Meads and the Mem to my knowledge, but this shouldn't be a problem. From the forecourt of Temple Meads travel on the 8 or 9 to the central area (ask the driver to tell you when you get to St Augustine's Parade) and then travel on the 73 or 75 to the Mem. From there you can travel on the 73 again to Parkway.
I think this is right anyway (I'm sure bnm could correct me if need be)...