Matamata Swifts AFC Pre-season Tournament

Saturday March 5, 2005

A couple of late withdrawls (including that of Hamilton North who just didn't bother to show up!) left the Matamata AFC pre-season tournament in a sorry state, but the teams who did visit Matamata played some good football in the parched, mid-summer conditions. There was no tournament winner, as the draw was only re-done to ensure every team played enough games to make their day worthwhile, although the Matamata first team was the only side to win all three games they played.

The first team began the day with a 1-0 victory over an energetic Otorohanga side. The goal came from the penalty spot in the dying seconds of the match. Adam Graham was impeded in the box and Alberto Romero stepped up to calmly stroke the ball home.

After a short break the Swifts were back in action against Morrinsville. The Swifts led 1-0 after an even first half with 2004 leading scorer, Joe Alves, flashing the ball home from a tight angle. Matamata stepped up a gear after the break and added two more goals to their tally to win 3-0. Alves headed home his second which was followed by an Andre Bos strike from outside the box.

The Swifts final match ended in a 4-1 victory over Rotorua City. A cross-come-shot from Andy Birchenough put the Swifts ahead, before Rotorua got back on level terms. Another thundering Andre Bos strike put the Swifts back in front just before the break, while two second half goals from Dwayne Barlow completed the scoring.

In other games of note, Claudelands Rovers, 2004 Waikato Premier League winners, drew 1-1 with Otorohanga, while the Swifts reserves drew 3-3 with Rotorua City.


Above left Colin Taylor brings the ball out of defence. Above right Scott Parsonage gets things under control against Morrinsville.


Above Dwayne Barlow plays Colin Taylor in against Rotorua City.

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