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Matamata Swifts have battled to a hard fought, but ultimately well deserved, home victory over Hamilton-based side, Claudelands Rovers. On the rough Domain surface, which is getting rougher with every passing week, the Swifts played the slightly better football against well organised and motivated opponents.
The victory was secured through two sublime second half Leo Pardini strikes. Both goals were things of beauty, but they came on the back of plenty of hard work and after a couple of close shaves during the first half.
 As with most matches this season Matamata had the bulk of the possession. This didn't count for much as the Swifts hardly created anything against their hardy opponents. For most of the first period the match was a dour midfield stoush played out in difficult conditions, with quality football at a premium.
Things should have burst open in the ten minutes leading up to the break as the visitors twice hit the woodwork. A rasping volley smashed into the cross bar then, moments later, Claudelands missed their best opportunity of the game. One of their lively young strikers was played in one-on-one with Swifts keeper, Gary Darkes, but screwed his shot onto the outside of the upright.
After the break it was a different match. The Swifts upped their performance and went ahead in the 55th minute. A pinpoint cross from Andy Birchenough was met by Pardini, the Redoubt man of the match, who drove home an unstoppable header. Once Matamata had the first goal there was only going to be one winner.
Victory was secured by one of the best goals seen at the Domain. Alberto Romero, back from suspension and on as a half time substitute, played a 40 yard pass that took out the entire Rovers defence and, better still, was met on the volley by Pardini. A nanosecond later the ball was in the back of the net.
Despite their second half dominance this was a stern test for Matamata. Claudelands are a decent side, one that should make the top eight, and they made things very difficult for the Swifts. That made this important victory all the sweeter.
The Swifts back four were nice and secure, while Darkes in goal had an easier ride than last week. The bench proved today just how deep Matamata's squad is this season. Romero entered the fray at half time and put in an excellent shift in midfield and youngster, Daniel Frischknecht, tourtured his opposite number for the last twenty minutes.
This victory made last Saturday's victory in Rotorua a good win and the Swifts will be hoping for more of the same in Hamilton next weekend when they take on Hamilton Wanderers, another side having a good season.
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