Matamata Swifts are on top of the Waikato-Bay of Plenty Federation league table, having beaten Tauranga City 2-1 in a close contest at the Domain. Battling miserable conditions, a poor playing surface and a good Tauranga side Matamata were more than happy to take three points from the tough contest.

The Swifts had the better of the first half and headed to the break up 2-1. The first goal came after only five minutes, when captain Andy Birchenough drove a powerful low free kick through the Tauranga City wall leaving an unsighted goalkeeper with no chance. The second came after 25 minutes as Birchenough turned provider when his cross was headed home by Andre Freitas, with the help from a Tauranga defender. Tauranga finishing the half the stronger of the two teams and scored not long before the half time break.

After the break Tauranga continued to put pressure on Matamata. The visitors' fitness contributed to them having the better of the second half. City were denied an equalizer when Redoubt man of the match, Gary Darkes, pulled out a brilliant save following a shot from ex-Swift, Neil Slater. The former Matamata player’s shot was destined for the top corner if not for the reactions of the Swifts goalkeeper.

The Swifts, fielding a full strength squad for the first time this season, have shown in the past two weeks they are capable of winning close games, something that could be crucial in their pursuit of the Federation league title.