Matamata Swifts have had another solid pre-season work-out, this time on the road at Te Awamutu. While the score makes the match look like a one sided waste of time, the match was anything but that for Matamata. Four thirty minute periods meant all the players in the squad had plenty of game time, which is vital so close two the season.

Andrew Cooper showed his pace and finishing ability in scoring the first two goals, then Michael Beard and Tim Miller (2) ensured the score increased in the second quarter. Beard, Jon Allen, Simon Arther, with two good strikes, and Andrew Taylor also troubled the scorers.

Te Awamutu showed periods of fight, particularly when their strongest XI was on the field. They pulled three good saves out of Tom Pamment, while Pamment was also called on to save a penalty. The hosts missed an open header late on to score the consolation goal their toil probably deserved.

With Grant Cooper, Stu Watene and Ismail Awad missing Swifts coach Lowry will have one hell of a problem deciding on a starting eleven come the start of the season, which is only two weeks away.

Swifts Squad: Tom Pamment, Bevan Woltersdorf, Ged Parkinson, Willy Mason, Jamie Baxter, Jon Allen, Alberto Romero, Andy Birchenough, Tim Miller, Andrew Clothier, Andrew Cooper, Michael Beard, Simon Arther, Mike Spencer, Andrew Taylor, Duncan Lowry.

Above Bevan Woltersdorf runs it out.


Above Alberto Romero strokes in a nice corner.


Above Simon Arther launches himself forward.

Above Tom Pamment clears the danger.


Above Willy Mason puts his foot through the ball.


Above Tom Pamment - goalkeeper AND footballer.


Above Jon Allen has his shot blocked.


Above Willy Mason strides out.


Above Jamie Baxter gets nice and close.


Above 'Back another two inches please.'


(Photos by: Dwayne Barlow)