Salford vs Swindon Prediction & Betting Tips (20 January)

Salford and Swindon approach this FA Cup meeting with a backdrop of unusual disruption, as their originally scheduled third‑round clash was postponed due to a frozen pitch caused by Storm Goretti’s severe weather across England. Sheets and heat lamps had been used for weeks at the Peninsula Stadium, but sections of the surface remained unplayable, forcing officials to delay the tie and reshuffle both clubs’ calendars. The rearranged date has now placed added pressure on both sides, who must balance league ambitions with the opportunity to progress in the cup. Swindon Advertiser+1

Salford enter the encounter in strong form, having avoided defeat in seven consecutive league matches and securing four wins from their last five. Their most recent outing was a gritty 2‑1 away victory over Barrow on New Year’s Day, sealed by a late Kelly N’Mai strike. The Ammies have already shown resilience in the competition, advancing past Lincoln City via penalties before dispatching Leyton Orient. With their league fixture against Shrewsbury also recently called off, the team has been forced to adapt quickly to an unpredictable schedule. Sports Mole

Swindon, meanwhile, sit narrowly above Salford in the League Two standings and have enjoyed their own cup success, having eliminated Rotherham and Bolton to reach this stage. Their preparations have also been affected by the postponement, leaving supporters and players alike adjusting to the revised travel and match arrangements. Swindon’s recent league form has kept them competitive near the top of the table, and the club now faces the unusual challenge of playing Salford twice in four days due to the rearranged fixture. The condensed schedule could influence squad rotation and tactical decisions. Radio Times+1

With both sides eager to reach the fourth round—something Salford have never achieved and Swindon have not managed since the 2011/12 season—the stakes feel higher than usual. The combination of recent postponements, tight league standings, and contrasting styles promises a compelling contest. After weighing recent performances, squad momentum, and the way each team has handled fixture disruptions, the expectation leans toward a decisive outcome. The predicted correct score for this FA Cup clash is 3:1, reflecting Salford’s current edge in form while acknowledging Swindon’s ability to compete. Radio Times