THE VIC MORGAN COLUMN: Dreaming of Wembley... (From Swindon Advertiser)

THE VIC MORGAN COLUMN: Dreaming of Wembley...

6:30am Saturday 11th February 2012 in Local

There’s nothing quite like it is there?

That moment when YOUR team has reached Wembley.

Tuesday night was the latest moment for Town fans, when they could experience that feeling.

For the fifth time Swindon will be appearing at the home of the game, and for the fifth time I’ll be following my team along Wembley Way.

The first time of course, was in the days of black and white. Fortunately for me, my school in Malmesbury organised a trip to the Twin Towers.

For the price of 10 shillings, I purchased a ticket which led to a lifetime of pride.

That famous day, before the M4, when Don Rogers skated over the Wembley mud-bath, will live with me forever.

I can still recall the relentless chant of “SWIN-DON, SWIN-DON”, as Bob Wilson went the wrong way when ‘The Don’ rounded him.

I have to say my other memory of that day, is being so disappointed with the stadium. It was badly in need of an overhaul, even in 1969.

My impressions during later Swindon visits didn’t change, until of course the last one a couple of years ago.

An impressive brand new stadium - just the game ruined the day. Sure we’ll read more about that over the next six weeks or so.

After years of trying, Swindon now have the chance to win this much-maligned competition. I’ve never understood the feelings about the JPT.

Realistically, if you’re a lower league club, the chances of repeating the Town’s success in ‘69, is minimal. So why not take any chance you can to reach a final?

For some reason, Swindon just haven’t been able to get close to winning the Football League Trophy.

This time it’s different, and I have a feeling that Paolo will treat this like a World Cup final.

My feelings about a trip to Wembley? It’s only a good day out if you win, otherwise forget it.

There was nothing to enjoy about our game against Millwall.

It rained, we lost, and my car broke down on the way back to Devon.

Don’t tell me it’s all about the day. It’s a game of football to be WON, nothing else matters.

All that has to be put on the back burner of course.

There’s lots of league football to be played, weather permitting, between now and then.

The ultimate priority this season is League One. Anything else would feel like a letdown with the way this team is playing.

Can’t think this current manager would ever take his eye off that particular ball.

So for just over a month, put Wembley to one side, and dream of promotion instead.