Swifts Taught a Lesson at the University

Swifts travelled to Stirling University to take on league leaders Falkirk, hopeful of causing them the same problems as the last visit when the sides were separated by a last minute Falkirk winner. It was however not be as close with the home side emerging as comfortable winners.

Swifts did not start in their usual manner and found themselves on the back foot. Falkirk were moving the ball quickly and working the Swifts defence. Their pressure paid off when Nicholson conceded an unnecessary penalty which Lyons converted. In 25mins Gallon doubled the lead when she tapped home after an excellent had set her up.

Swifts were up against it now and were needing McIlravey to keep them in the game. Against the run of play they halved the lead when Martin headed home a McGinley corner from the edge of the box. However the Swifts didn’t enjoy the benefit of that goal for long when Donaldson stole in between defence and keeper to lob home.

At 1-3 HT Swifts were frustrated with their efforts. They hadn’t really started and the hosts had controlled the match. More bravery on the ball was needed to avoid a heavy defeat.

Thankfully the Swifts responded and without hitting any great form were now passing the ball better and looking to build up play. They were rewarded and got back into the game with an excellent goal that started at the back with Martin and ultimately saw McGinley supply a cross that Smith despatched neatly first time across the keeper. It was a great move full of one-touch passing and movement and a lesson for the team on how they can and should play.

The Swifts were now back in the game and competing much better, and the game was now being contested evenly.

The Swifts however failed to find the spark required to get back into the game and with 10mins remaining conceded a second penalty that Lyons despatched. Robertson increased the pain for Swifts when she headed home from a corner assisted by slack marking.

Swifts had the final chance of the match in the final minute when McGinley was put through but screwed her shot wide.

A disappointing day for Swifts who lost the game with their poor first-half showing. The home side will have been pleased with their win which was fully deserved and keeps them on course for the title.

Next up for Swifts Glasgow Girls in what will be a contest for 6th place