GET your money on Cheltenham and make a few quid.

That’s Richie Wellens’ tongue-in-cheek advice to supporters lamenting Swindon Town’s disappointing FA Cup record in recent years and the club’s well documented winless run at Whaddon Road.

More than seven years have passed since Town last defeated a Football League team in the sport’s oldest competition – that win occurred against then Premier League side Wigan Athletic in January 2012.

Furthermore, Town’s 2-2 draw against Michael Duff’s Robins in August extended the club’s winless run away from home to their Gloucestershire rivals to eight games.

Wellens, who next week will mark a year in charge at SN1, has now called on players to rid of the monkey attached to the club’s back by defeating in form Cheltenham this afternoon.

He said: “We can’t win at Cheltenham, and we can’t beat a Football League team in the FA Cup – so get your money on Cheltenham.

“These records can’t keep going on like this. In five or six years we’re not going to be talking about not beating a league club since 2012.

“We’re a good team and will travel with confidence. Cheltenham are strong at home, but we’re going away to a team in our division – so we can play our normal game.

“I would’ve preferred a League One club, though – Ipswich or Sunderland away would’ve been nice and a great environment to play in.”

Putting his light-hearted approach aside, Town’s 39-year-old manager has been taken by surprise regarding Cheltenham’s performances and results this term.

Proven forward Luke Varney, dangerous winger Ryan Broom and the all-action Ben Tozer are just a few names that deserve great credit amid this afternoon’s hosts’ efforts to push into League Two’s automatic promotion frame.

“It’s a bit of a surprise where Cheltenham are in the league,” said Wellens.

“But if you look at the stadium, they work the pitch well. It’s really tight and they play three centre backs with a very high line.

“They’re a threat from corners, free kicks and long throws – every time you clear the ball from within 30 metres of your goal, Ben Tozer will be there.

“They’ve got a good player in Luke Varney and Ryan Broom too. I didn’t expect them to be in the top frame.

“Michael Duff is doing a great job there, and every credit to him for that.

“Sometimes you can’t foresee what other teams can do.”