SWINDON Town will visit promoted Sydenhams Premier champions Petersfield Town for a friendly on Saturday week.

Mark Cooper's full first-team squad will make the trip to Love Lane for the second year running for a clash against the Southern League Central Division new boys, the Hampshire club announced.

The July 18 match will kick-off at 3pm and follows last season's 5-2 win for Town.

Petersfield Town chairman Andy Vernon said: “We are delighted to welcome Swindon Town again to Petersfield for a pre-season friendly.

“Last season’s friendly was a magnificent advert for both clubs and the style of football they like to play and I’m sure this year’s game will be just as entertaining.

“Our stadium is a traditional non-league football ground and the advantage for spectators is they will be able to get a very close look at the new players their teams have signed for the new season and run the rule over how their team is shaping up for the forthcoming campaign.

“We look forward to seeing as many supporters as possible from both clubs on the day for what I’m sure will be a fantastic afternoon of football.”

Petersfield Town manager Ian Saunders believes the visit of the League One side to Love Lane offers the perfect warm up for his players.

He said: “It is fantastic that Swindon Town have chosen to come to play us for the second year running – it really shows how our club is progressing that we are able to attract this calibre of opposition.

“It is a good test for my players against higher ranked opposition to show me what they can do ahead of the new season, as well as showing our supporters what they are capable of as well.

“Last season the game proved to be perfect in our pre-season preparations and look what both clubs went on to achieve after playing each other, so let’s hope it has a similar effect for both sides in the forthcoming season.

“I would like to see as many of our supporters there on the day as possible so that my players have their fantastic support and backing again.”

Tickets cost £5 for adults and £3 concessions (under-16s and OAPs). They will be available on the day and in advance via the office of the Petersfield Post, 33 High Street, Petersfield, from 9am-5pm Mondays to Fridays.