HAVING played in the Premier League and an FA Cup Final, Darren Ward is no stranger to big occasions.

And the Swindon Town skipper is hoping several more are on the way in what promises to be an exciting conclusion to the season.

Not only are the Robins well placed to mount a promotion challenge in Sky Bet League One, they are also on the cusp of a swift Wembley return thanks to another impressive Johnstone’s Paint Trophy run.

A two-legged Southern Area Final against Peterborough United stands between Swindon and the chance to go one better than two years ago, when they were beaten by Chesterfield in the final.

And skipper Ward, who enjoyed a stint in the top flight with Watford and played in the 2004 FA Cup final for Millwall against Manchester United in Cardiff, admitted the prospects over the remainder of the season are enough to get his pulse racing.

“We’ve had a good season so far and it means there is a lot to look forward to,” said the 35-year-old centre half.

“We’re in a good position in the League and everyone is enjoying the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy run.

“Whatever stage you’re at in your career, when you have the chance to win something, you have to do everything you can to try and grasp it.

“It’s great to have a run in the cups and we have got two big games to come against Peterborough. We’ve both won our home games in the League so it will be an interesting two legs.

“To get to Wembley would be a fantastic achievement for a largely young squad but we know there is a lot to do yet before we think about that.”

Swindon begin their quest to reach the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy Final with a first-leg trip to Peterborough, which will be televised live on Sky Sports on Wednesday at 7.15pm.

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