SWINDON travel to Premier League side Stoke City tomorrow evening in the second round of the Capital One Cup.
Paolo Di Canio’s team will step out onto the pitch at the Britannia Stadium brimming with confidence after an unbeaten start to the new season. Saturday’s win over ten-man MK Dons came courtesy of a Matt Ritchie goal on the stroke of half time, the winger’s second goal in as many games.
The manager believes that the match at Stoke will be another good examination of his side’s ability: “We will look forward to the game,” he said. “It is another chance to test ourselves against a top side at the top level”
The Potters played their weekend fixture on Sunday, drawing 0-0 at home against Arsenal. The point leaves them still searching for their first league win of the season after being held at Reading on the opening day of the season.
Tuesday’s match will be the first meeting between the two sides since 2002. On that particular trip to the north-west, Stoke ran out 2-0 winners.
Town also had the honour of being the Potters’ opponents in the first league game played at the Britannia Stadium. Goals from Wayne Allison and Chris Hay spoiling the home supporters’ party as the Town won 2-1.
The last time the two sides met in the League Cup was in October 1979. Town won the third round replay at The County Ground 2-1 thanks to goals from Alan Mayes and Ray McHale. Town's current kit manager Rogers Jones played in goal for the Potters that day.
Tickets for the game will still be available on the day at the Britannia Stadium, priced at £12 for adults and £6 for concessions.
