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Peter Vossen Builders Matamata Swifts have drawn a blank against Otorohanga in being held to their third consecutive draw on Saturday.
While nowhere near their best, the Swifts created more than enough chances to have won this match. But that was nothing new. Mike Spencer had a great chance which he headed just wide during  the first half, while Tim Miller had a stinging drive superbly saved by the visitor’s goalie.
Otorohanga were energetic and their in-your-face style caused a few problems. Their only chance of note came in the last twenty minutes, but Tom Pamment, who must have been the coldest man at the Domain on what was a freezing afternoon, showed why he’s the best keeper in the league.
The game should have been well out of Otorohanga’s reach by then, however. Mark Knell had a one-on-one well saved, while Miller put a far post header just over and Jon Allen sent a long range effort humming just wide of the upright.
The Swifts were too ponderous at times, when a quicker, more purposeful approach was necessary. All too often an extra touch was taken, which allowed the motivated visitors a chance to get closer to the ball than they should have.
The point gained from the draw was enough to keep the Swifts top of the league, but they’ll have to do much better next week. The gap they should have had has shrunk to next to nothing, meaning it’s squeaky bum time already, and there’s still nine games to go.
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