Holloway 'totally bemused' by Swindon Town's defeat against Cheltenham

Boss Ian Holloway admitted he was left “totally bemused” by the his Swindon Town side’s performance, as they suffered their first defeat in nine games.

Ethon Archer’s strike just before the hour mark proved the difference, as the hosts were sunk 1-0 by Cheltenham Town at the Nigel Eady County Ground.

The result meant Swindon Town dropped to third in the table behind Notts County on goal difference. They remain a point behind leaders Walsall having now played a game more.

Reflecting on the defeat, Holloway said: “When the game started, the number of times we passed it back to our goalkeeper I could not believe.

"We had the same tactics and we wanted to do the same thing against the team that played the same way.

"Well done to Cheltenham, I thought the goal they scored was outstanding.

"We had one opportunity where Aaron Drinan was played in behind, and he has been putting everything in, but we only caught him once.

"I am absolutely and totally bemused at why we passed it back to Connor Ripley so many times.

"Can he score from there? Why are we not playing it to our forwards?

"What did we do the other day? What did we do yesterday in training?

"Did I see that coming? No, I didn't, but that is life."

Town have the chance to bounce back when they visit Bristol Rovers on Saturday (12.30pm).