Cheltenham Preview

It's The Magic Of The Cup Once Again

Nine months on from the exit from last season's competition at Tranmere, the Swans return to FA Cup action tomorrow with a short trip over the to Cheltenham, a side that have never beaten the Swans in a competitive fixture.

It seems a far cry from that day back in February when the quarter finals of the FA Cup beckoned the winning side but this game is the first step on another trail that we hope will take us into the third round and a money spinning tie against one of the big clubs from the Premiership.

With the draw taking place for Round Two around about the time when the second half kicks off at Whaddon Road, both sides will be well aware of what is the missing link between this tie and a round three encounter in January.

Kenny Jackett's squad is boosted by the return to fitness of Andy Robinson who has missed the last couple of matches - and he will more than likely return to the starting line up at the expense of Leon Britton. Andy Gurney is out through suspension and this will open the door for a starting place for either Izzy Iriekpen or Alan Tate.

Cheltenham's only concern seems to be the lack of Gavin McCann through suspension as they look to continue their good recent form which has pushed them to within a point of the promotion spots.

Chips on their shoulders apart it promises to be a very tight encounter tomorrow afternoon and both sides will be hopeful to avoid the need for a replay as the fixtures start to mount up ahead of the midway point in the season.

For me this one really is too close to call and as much as I hope I am wrong, I have a feeling that home advantage may be the deciding factor.

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