Southampton's long FA Cup record on the line against Cheltenham

In the last quarter-of-a-century, Saints have NEVER lost at home to a lower league side in the competition.

But the Robins have vowed to come and attack in a bid to end that long-standing record in this afternoon’s second round clash at St Mary’s.

The last club from a lesser division to beat Saints on their own soil in the FA Cup was Barnsley, who recorded a 2-1 win at The Dell in March, 1985.

Since then, Saints have played 23 games against lower league opposition at home in the famous competition.

They have won 16 – although one victory came after extra time – and drawn seven.

Today’s match will mark the first time Saints and Cheltenham have ever squared off in a competitive match.

Nigel Adkins’s men go into the game as overwhelming favourites against their League Two opponents.

But Cheltenham boss Mark Yates has issued a warning to anyone that expects the Robins to come and simply defend.

Full story in today's Daily Echo