Town poised for Forest test (From This Is Swindon Town FC)

Town poised for Forest test

7:10am Friday 30th July 2010

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SWINDON face the biggest test of their pre-season campaign tomorrow as they entertain Nottingham Forest at the County Ground.

Billy Davies brings his much-fancied Championship side to Wiltshire, and although they are suffering with big injury problems, the likes of Robert Earnshaw, Nathan Tyson and Chris Gunter could all be on display.

Forest reached the play-offs last year but were dumped out by eventual winners Blackpool, who sealed promotion to the Premier League with victory over Cardiff at Wembley.

Town boss Danny Wilson explained it is the final chance for his full-strength squad to have a run out ahead of the new 2010/11 season, and believes both teams will be looking to banish painful memories from last season.

“It’s a good fixture and from our camp we’re looking to bounce back from the disappointment just like they (Forest) are,” he said.

“Like us, they got very, very close last season so we can both draw on each other’s experience.

“We want to get through the last game, get a free week in front of it - albeit playing Poole, but that will be a fringe team - and start planning for the new season.”

Town fans could well get a first glimpse of Celtic duo Paul Caddis and Simon Ferry, provided there are no hiccoughs in agreeing personal terms for their impending permanent switches from Parkhead.

The pair will add much-needed depth to a thin squad, and Wilson’s selection could give a clue as to his likely line-up for their opening day fixture against Brighton a week later.

Charlie Austin and Vincent Pericard are likely to start up front, with new signings David Prutton, Michael Rose and David Ball all expected to get their first run-out at their new home.

The Forest friendly on Saturday kicks off at 3pm, but the County Ground will be open from 11.30am with Swindon holding an open day, with a variety of events for supporters of all ages.

A tour of the ground will be available, led by host Geoff Exton and with help from Town legends Phil King, Alan McLoughlin and Fraser Digby. Priced at just £1, all proceeds will go to the club’s charity of the year Hop, Skip & Jump, and to book call 0844 3754345 or email josear@swindontownfc.co.uk.

Among a range of other attractions, there will also be face painting, arts and crafts stalls, fitness challenges and football drills.

In the build-up to kick-off the Britannia Majorettes will perform on the pitch at 2.15pm, shortly before the Swindon Gymnastics Group (2.25pm), and a mascot race will start at 2.45pm.

Tickets for the Forest game are priced at £10 for adults and £5 for juniors.

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