Former BBC Wiltshire commentator Vic Morgan writes his latest blog for TheWashbag.com…

Another FA Cup first round another exit in double quick time.

Yet again Swindon Town leave the competition at the opening stage. It’s getting so predictable many Swindon fans book the first Saturday in December to do their Christmas shopping.

Last weekends defeat at Rochdale was more than a tad disappointing. I honestly thought we might see a Town victory at Spotland. The first game under new manager Martin Ling and a feeling of optimism in the air for the travelling supporters.

Certainly as we sheltered from the rain eating the pre match chips, there was hope that the Lingy era would kick off in a positive way. Sadly it wasn’t to be. Rochdale deservedly went through, even though Nicky Ajose’s penalty broke our nearly four year scoring duck in the competition, the home side comfortably made it into the next round.

Still at least we haven’t conceded since our last FA Cup goal, something to take us through to next November…

Of course the league is all important. While glory in knock out competitions is all well and good, maintaining our place in League One is the most important thing. The first step along that road for Martin Ling is this Saturday when Scunthorpe come to the County Ground.

After two long away trips it’ll be nice to reacquaint myself with my seat in the Arkells. It seems an age since we last played at home. Many miles have been travelled without reward. Wigan was unlucky, Rochdale a deserved defeat.

So what should we expect against the Iron?

Well Lingy will have had some time to work with the squad and make up his mind about players strengths and weaknesses. Apparently we’ll be playing with two forwards this weekend which is good news. If you’re at home, you should take the initiative, otherwise any advantage of being on your own ground is nullified.

As usual we can also play our part. If you’re in two minds about going on Saturday then persuade yourself to get along and support the team. To be honest I can understand if people are reticent, after all it’s been a pretty miserable season so far.

However now is the time to be a fan. It’s easy to turn up when the team is winning, not so easy when results aren’t going your way. That though is what being a supporter is all about. Through thick and thin, good and bad. A fresh start this Saturday, that’s how we should see it.

So as always keep it loud keep it proud keep it SWINDON!