Jeanfield Swifts AFC kicked off the 2024/25 season in style, securing a commanding 6-2 victory against St. Johns at the Riverside. Under the fresh leadership of new manager Mark Allison, Jeanfield demonstrated their winning mentality, cultivated during an solid preseason, and carried it into the first competitive match of the campaign.

Both teams began the game with intent, creating early chances, but the goalkeepers were up to the task. The breakthrough came in the 31st minute when R. Green's dangerous in-swinging free kick was expertly flicked on by A. Abboud, whose delicate header found the back of the net, giving Jeanfield a deserved lead.

However, their advantage was short-lived. Just six minutes later, St. Johns equalised, capitalising on a failed clearance attempt by the Jeanfield keeper. St. Johns nearly took the lead before halftime, striking the bar and forcing a brilliant save from the Swifts’ stopper. Despite this setback, Jeanfield’s belief and winning mentality remained unwavering.

At halftime, Allison emphasised the importance of staying positive and playing their brand of football. He introduced new signing A. Smith, and the team responded immediately. Just one minute into the second half, Jeanfield defender N. McNicol went on a dazzling solo run, linking up with the midfield before finding J. Jardine on the right. Jardine's precise cross met A. Abboud at the back post, who coolly slotted it home to restore the lead.

Jeanfield’s determination and drive were on full display in the 50th minute. After winning the ball with a fierce tackle at the halfway line, R. Green noticed the St. Johns keeper off his line and, with incredible confidence, launched a long-range shot that sailed into the net, extending Jeanfield’s lead to 3-1. This moment epitomised the winning mentality Allison has instilled in the squad.

With momentum firmly on their side, Jeanfield continued to dominate. In the 56th minute, new signing J. Howie set up A. Abboud, who completed his perfect hat-trick with a clinical left-footed finish, making it 4-1. Jeanfield’s control of the game reflected their superior fitness and mental resilience.

St. Johns managed to pull one back in the 71st minute, taking advantage of a controversial drop ball decision, but Jeanfield's focus never wavered. The Swifts responded just three minutes later, as K. Mitchell silenced the St. Johns manager—who had been trying to distract him—by curling a corner directly into the top corner of the net. Mitchell then turned provider in the 76th minute, setting up J. Jardine, who capped off his tireless performance with a well-deserved goal.

Jeanfield saw out the remainder of the match with ease, controlling the tempo and ensuring Mark Allison’s era began with an emphatic win.

Fulltime
Jeanfield Swifts AFC 6
St.Johns 2

A.Abboud ⚽⚽⚽
J.Jardine ⚽
R.Green ⚽
K.Mitchell ⚽

Man of the Match was Ali Abboud who was relentless throughout the game, tormenting the opposition and securing a perfect hat-trick to lead his team to victory.

#coyis