Ben Garner says Swindon Town ready to start League Two play-off campaign

Town will welcome Port Vale to a sold-out County Ground on Sunday in the first leg of the pair’s play-off semi-final.

Both teams secured excellent results on the final day of the League Two season to reach this point – Vale beat Exeter City 1-0 to move into fifth while Swindon hammered Walsall 3-0 as they secured sixth.

Town have been in must-win territory for a few weeks now, expending plenty of emotion and energy in order to keep their season alive.

Ahead of a crucial first-leg tie, Garner has no concerns over his team’s energy levels – instead claiming he has had to remind the players to take it easy in the week’s training.

Garner said: “They’re fantastic, energy levels are really high. It’s almost been a case of reigning them in a little bit this week.

“They’re chomping at the bit, they’re ready to go. We will out-run anyone. We will out-run and out-work any team. We won’t fall short on that front.

“And emotionally, they seem in a really, really good place. I’m really pleased with how the week’s preparation has gone and we’re all looking forward to the game, we’re all excited for tomorrow and we can’t wait to get going.”

While Garner says the Town squad is excited ahead of tomorrow’s first leg, the feeling among supporters is a mixture of enthusiasm and nerves.

Asked what message Garner would issue to supporters in order to settle nerves and calm them down, the Town boss replied: “No, I don’t want them calm!

“Have that excitement, have that anticipation for the game. These are great moments for football supporters.

“To have this opportunity from where the club was last summer is brilliant for supports and all the people at the football club. So enjoy it, really enjoy it.

“All of those who are fortunate enough to come to the game tomorrow, make as much noise as you can, give us that energy and passion. Hopefully, together, we can make a great start in these play-off games.”