Matamata Swifts have moved three points clear at the top of the Federation League table following a routine 2-0 home victory over Tauranga City United. The Swifts controlled proceedings throughout against a sturdy, well organised, defensively minded Tauranga side which, at times, made life difficult.

The home fans were expecting fireworks in this match, given the recent history between the two clubs, but it was a surprisingly low-key and incident free encounter. There were a handful of strong challenges from each side, but they were sensibly dealt with by referee, Wayne Bacica, who had no need to show even one yellow card.

The Swifts scored a goal in each half. Grant Cooper notched his first for Matamata just after the half hour mark. His right footed drive took a nice deflection on the way in. The goal was certainly coming after the visitors had soaked up plenty of pressure. Andy Birchenough, with a drive from 15 yards, and Andrew Taylor, with a close range header, had the best of the early chances.

Mike Spencer doubled the lead for Matamata less than five minutes after the re-start. He profited from some excellent work down the right by Ismail Awad, who crossed for Spencer to head home. That goal sealed the result, but the Swifts couldn’t quite push on to add a couple more goals. Tauranga defended stoutly, and deep, and their keeper made two superb saves.

Tom Pamment in the Matamata goal had his quietest match of the season, such was the solidity of the performance in front of him. Jack McKenna was once again excellent at centre half, while the Swifts midfield ran the show and the front two, Tim Miller and Mark Knell, got through a power of work. Ismail Awad, in his home debut for Matamata, proved to be a handful out wide on the right, while Mike Spencer looked got when he came on.

With previous league leaders, Taupo, falling to a second defeat, and Whakatane not playing, Matamata now sits three points clear at the top of the table. This is, of course, where the Swifts want to be, although there is still an awfully long way to go in the season.

Above Grant Cooper looks to knock the ball forward while Greyhound gets distracted.


Above Two panthers prepare to pounce on the ball.


Above Getting a bit close there Wayne...


Above No, you cannot go to the toilet until after the match.


Above Grant Cooper is pleased to have finally opened his account for Matamata.


Above Tim Miller holds the ball up.


Above Mike Spencer gets mobbed after scoring the second for the Swifts.

Above Tim Miller has a spring in his step.


Above Tim Miller rolls the ball back to Ismail Awad.


Photos: Dwayne Barlow