BARROW AFC could be facing something of a wounded animal when they take to the field at the County Ground today.
The Bluebirds have made the long trek to take on a Swindon Town side who were on the receiving end of a 4-0 thrashing last weekend.
Michael Flynn’s side were reeling after that defeat to AFC Wimbledon last Saturday.
But Barrow AFC boss Pete Wild says they will be determined to put things right today.
Wild says he heard the Town boss’ reaction after the 4-0 defeat, and knows they will be looking to bounce back straight away.
“I know Michael the manager well and I listened to his press conference after the AFC Wimbledon game,” he said.
“I’m sure he will want better from his side than what they gave last Saturday so he’ll be expecting a reaction.
“We are certainly waiting for a reaction, and we have got to make sure that we stand up to that reaction and challenge them.”
Wild believes the hosts will look to get on the front foot on home turf, and says his side must be up for the challenge.
He added: “They are an expansive side, particularly at home and have plenty of good players and threats throughout the team.
“I expect them to look to bring the game to us and we have to stand up to that.”
One of those threats is well known to the Cumbrians – Jake Young had a spell on loan at Barrow last season making 17 appearances.
Now on loan at Swindon from Bradford City, Young has certainly found his shooting boots, weighing in with 16 goals from 20 games, and picking up two League Two Player of Month awards so far this term.
With the likes of veteran striker Charlie Austin to count on The Robins have numerous attacking options, and Wild is expecting a battle.
“We know that they will push and prod us and we have to stand toe to toe with them and make sure we stand firm and answer any questions asked of us.
“We haven’t played them yet this season, but we know what to expect. They are a good side and we will have to make sure we are the best version of ourselves to get the result we want.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here