It’s Friday, so it must be time for the latest blog by BBC Devon’s Vic Morgan.

So here’s the thing. I got home from work at two in the morning, up two and a half hours later to start the seemingly never ending day that is Carlisle United away. Leaving Devon in the dark, there were internal questions regarding sanity and what the whatsits were we doing. That feeling was enhanced when we met the supporters coach at the Air Balloon in a howling gale and pouring rain. Somehow though, it just has to be done.

It’s one of the bizarre things about being a football  fan that trips like Carlisle seem to appeal. Having done it many times you would think I’m used to it. You never get used to passing Manchester and thinking you’re still many miles away from Brunton Park.

We travelled there in expectation. Three wins in a row had put us on the edge do the play offs. Another three points, coupled with a defeat for Peterborough United at Wolves, would surely give the Town a great chance in the run in. Part of that scenario happened, sadly the other bit didn’t. Swindon meekly went down to a defeat at the relegation threatened Cumbrians. Barely mustering a shot at goal and showing alarming defensive frailty to allow Gary Madine the chance to score winner.

It’s fair to say the highlight of the afternoon was a couple of pints in the pub opposite the ground, says it all really. After the game comes the long journey back. Arrival in Devon coincided with the end of Match of the Day and the start of the Football League Show. Suffice it to say there was no need to watch that particular programme. The next day is one of walking around Zombie style and saying never again. Well until next time obviously.

After Peterborough’s midweek win over Gillingham, it’s now almost certain we’ll be in League One again next season. A disappointing campaign? No I don’t think so. I’ve said many times a top ten finish is an achievement. That looks likely and so I think that’s pretty decent. What happens next term is a case of wait and see. There’s the summer to come and the transfer window. That’s for another day.

This weekend we welcome Brentford. Alan McCormack and Jonathan Douglas return to SN1. Should  be another stern test for our team. As they’ve proved recently though against Preston and Sheffield United, they can match the better teams at the County Ground. The Bees will be hungry for points. We also will be paying tribute to the 96 who lost their lives at Hillsborough twenty five years ago. They should never be forgotten.

As always keep it loud keep it proud keep it SWINDON.

Vic

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