PREVIEW: Swindon Town v Exeter City

SWINDON TOWN will aim to kick-off 2019 with a win as they host Exeter City at The County Ground on New Year’s Day. Total Sport Swindon’s Ryan Walker previews the fixture.

A dull draw against Mansfield Town in their last league fixture just three days ago saw Swindon slump to 14th in the table, whilst a shock home defeat versus Grimsby left Exeter clinging onto the playoff positions in 7th place. 

Previously on the losing side in a two-nil away defeat against Exeter earlier in the season means Swindon will be on the hunt for revenge as they welcome The Grecians to Wiltshire for the first game of the new year.

Strong performances this season have seen manager Matt Taylor guide his Exeter side into the playoff places on 40 points having won eleven matches so far. But two defeats over the festive period have highlighted vulnerabilities in an Exeter side chasing promotion.

In contrast, Swindon have made it through the busiest fixture period of the year unbeaten in their last three matches. 

However, whilst remaining unbeaten is a positive, three consecutive draws has caused Town to stutter in their pursuit up the table following a brilliant start under Richie Wellens. 

Now entering the second half of the season means each game counts even more as teams make their final charge for the playoff spots, and Swindon will need to pick up three points today if they are to hunt down the pack leaders at the top of the table. 

Possessing one of the leagues strongest attacks has seen Exeter score 35 goals this season and with the leagues most potent striker Jayden Stockley, who has found the net 17 times this season, in their ranks means Swindon’s defence is in for a difficult test this afternoon.  

Sid Nelson and Luke Woolfenden will undoubtedly be at the heart of Swindon’s defence, but it could be a final appearance in a Swindon shirt for Nelson who’s loan period ends following today’s game.

Despite a gulf in class between the two sides, Swindon must focus on their own game as they seek to find the fluidity in attack that is needed to outscore today’s opponents.

Both teams enter today's clash having endured a frustrating end to 2018, but Exeter may provide too much to handle for Swindon on the first day of the year.

Prediction: 1-3