2004/2005 Preview - Northampton Town

LAST SEASON

Play off semi finals for Northampton last year when they lost out to Mansfield on penalties.

WHAT HAVE THEY BEEN UP TO THIS SUMMER?

Midfielder David Rowson is a new arrival at Sixfields this season along with Tommy Jaszczun and Scott McGleish.

Saying goodbye to the Sixfields were Rob Ullathorne, Paul Trollope and Chris Hargreaves.

Derek Asamoah seems on his way out though and is having talks with Mansfield Town

WHO ARE THEIR FAMOUS FANS?

The list in endless of famous Cobblers fans (well not endless but there's a few) - Jules Carling of VH1 fame, Bob Harris the DJ, Peter Purves formerly of Blue Peter, Michael Underwood who presents on CBBC and Jo Whiley but she also confesses to be a Spurs fan. Oh and there is also 98 year old TV presenter Des O'Connor, soon to be a father - another Cobblers generation is on it's way.

5 THINGS YOU DIDN'T KNOW ABOUT NORTHAMPTON

1. Northampton claims to be the fastest growing town in the UK - I'm sure Swindon also tries to lay claim to the same title?

2. Northampton Museum and Art Gallery has the largest designated collection of footwear in the World. Imelda Marcos will be proud!

3. Northampton Balloon Festival is an annual 3 day 'extravaganza' and all for free - this year headlined by Ronan Keating and the Sugababes - whether they are in balloons or not is not clear!

4. Northampton is home to the British Grand Prix making it quite possibly home to the quickest road in the UK (well you would hope anyway!)

5. And of course you have to add to their attractions, Athorp Park where you can see the exhibition of the life of the Princess of Wales, that is before it is closed down - does anyone still care?

ARE WE ANY GOOD AGAINST NORTHAMPTON?

Forty five matches between the two sides has produced 21 Swans wins with just 15 for Northampton. Swansea head the goal difference 65 to 59. Northampton though have won 5 of the last 7 meetings between the sides.. For the full list of results, click here

WHEN DO WE PLAY THEM?

Northampton open the very last season at the Vetch when they visit on August 7 while the return fixture takes place on 19 March.

IF I WANT TO FIND OUT MORE WHERE DO I GO?

You can talk cobblers on the Rivals site at the banner below

WHAT ARE THEIR CHANCES NEXT SEASON?

They start the season as favourites and in fairness I think they can probably justify that tag - promotion joy next May for the Cobblers, every chance for it to be as champions.

Why not check out the latest Vetch Verdict on the BBC site?