TBJ. You have been a Swindon fan for more years than you care to remember, so you must recall the rivalry between the Robins and the Gills. What are your memories of the era?
SD. My abiding memory is of Steve (Chalky) White putting Swindon 2 up at Selhurst Park in the play off final extra tie in 1987. Our greatest ever manager (Lou Macari), our greatest striker (Dave Bamber). What a team!!!! The Gills fans were totally shell-shocked by the early opener - great stuff!!
TBJ. We are not bitter but, a 1-0 win at Priestfield and a 2-1 defeat at the County Ground, what about away goals? They counted before that final but we have to have a replay after a long season, having played more games than you because we had better cup runs! But as I say I am not bitter!
SD. No, you don't sound it!!!! The play offs are great for the game but I think all real fans prefer to reward based on the seasons results. We finished 3rd - so we got what we deserved!
TBJ. What about the Gills/Swindon Rivalry now? "We Hate Swindon" and "Because of Ray McHale" songs are still sung by the Gills fans, do you guys still regard us as the "old enemy"?
SD. I think some of the fans at Swindon forget why there is so much rivalry between the two clubs. It's easier to remember why we hate Oxford and Bristol City! That said, there is a generation of us out there that will always put you in that same category.
TBJ. Swindon was promoted last year from League 2 after relegation and promotion the previous two seasons. Do you think you will hold your own this season or are you worried that you may be a "yo yo" club?
SD. We have a bit of a 'yo yo' tradition but I see this season as one of consolidation with the added bonus of competing for a play off position.
TBJ. You have made a few additions to last season's squad, who are you looking to make an impression this season?
SD. It's a team game Truebluejock - something that I think Mr Sturrock instils into his squad. They will all need to make an impression if Swindon is to achieve this season's objectives.
TBJ. An impressive start so far this season, sitting in 6th after 8 games. Why do you think you have started so well?
SD. See above. Good manager, good team ethic. We are spoilt for choice in the goalkeeping department, have a solid defence, creative midfield and the service is starting to improve to the strikers. In an ideal world there would be more competition for places but I would think Mr Sturrock is fairly satisfied with progress so far.
TBJ. What are your hopes for the coming season?
SD. As I said, I am confident we will consolidate this season and maybe push for a play off place.
TBJ. Paul Sturrock has done well for you so far and there are rumours of Championship Clubs possibly looking to recruit him. Are you worried by this?
SD. Mr Sturrock is an excellent manager and, although he is managing a big club, he is undoubtedly in a league that is lower than his abilities. While this position remains he will always be in the frame for other jobs. That said, I am sure he has a plan for Swindon, one which he intends to deliver.
TBJ. After 8 games this season who do you feel will be challenging for promotion and who do you feel will struggle this season in League One?
SD. It's hard to believe that clubs like Forest and Leeds are even in this league. I don't believe they will be next year. My old mate Colin Calderwood should see Forest up without much trouble and, despite everything, I hope our ex manager Denis Wise turns things around at Leeds. Another ex Town favourite, Martin Ling has made a great start at Orient and, despite their midweek setback against The Gills, they may well sneak through! No idea about the other end - we at Swindon never look back!
TBJ. What about the Gills chances this season?
SD. Ah! Wished you asked me that before the last question!! No seriously, Gills will stay up but they need to sort out the manager's position as soon as possible. Go with Iffy at your peril - nice bloke, shame about the talent!
TBJ. On the manager front, there is a strong rumour that ex Swindon boss Steve McMahon is to be unveiled. A decent appointment?
SD. (Laughs uncontrollably). Seriously, though………..(breaks out in laughter again) you are doomed man! Tactically poor and he manages like he played, as a hard man and that will get you nowhere. Good luck!
TBJ. With the big game rapidly approaching, what Robins players do you feel the Gills will need to watch out for?
SD. I'm sure Iffy will pinpoint perceived areas of strength and weakness in our game. However, I truly believe this is a well balanced and talented team across the park. Gills should fear everyone.
TBJ. And what Gills players will the Robins have to be wary of?
SD. Swindon need to be wary of the history between these two clubs. Both sets of fans know that - but do the players? The league table doesn't matter with this fixture.
TBJ. Can I have a prediction?
SD. Swindon should pull through a tight game. Expect 2-1 home win.