Swindon Town travel to Stadium MK this Saturday to face Milton Keynes Dons in the first round of the FA Cup. The tie, scheduled for a 3pm kick-off on 7 November, pits the League Two side against opponents from the division above.
Swindon go into the cup clash sitting 13th in League Two with 19 points from 14 games, a record of five wins, four draws and five losses. Their recent form has been mixed, with two wins, two draws and a loss from their last five outings. That run includes a 2-1 victory over Rotherham last time out, where goals from Jack Thomson and Joseph Hungbo secured the points. The team has scored 15 goals this season while conceding 17, leaving them with a minus two goal difference. Top scorer Drinan, who has netted 22 times in 40 appearances this season, is expected to lead the line again. In the league, they currently trail leaders Salford City by 12 points.
Opponent form
Milton Keynes Dons present a stern challenge, having won four of their last five matches. Their recent victories include a 6-1 thrashing of Doncaster and a 2-1 win over Championship side Luton Town in the EFL Trophy.
Team news
Both sides have named their starting lineups. Swindon are likely to stick with the 3-4-2-1 shape that beat Rotherham, featuring Ripley in goal and a back three of Ball, Negru and Kirkman. Dan Butler, who provided the assist for Thomson's goal, will operate on the left flank.
The match offers a break from league action before Swindon return to face Grimsby Town at home on 14 November. A positive result at Stadium MK would provide a significant boost ahead of that League Two encounter against a side currently sixth in the table.
