Swifts Hoodo continues at hands of Colts

Swifts travelled to play a Colts side who had already beaten them three times this season. Their hopes were hampered by a squad that was depleted by injuries, suspensions and call-offs so it was always going to be an uphill battle. They were to battle bravely but come unstuck in the latter stages of an entertaining match when tired legs took their toll.

Despite their weakened team Swifts competed well in the early stages that saw both keepers perform well. McIllravey had been alert especially in handling dangerous cross-balls and McSherry had to be alert to stop drives form McGinley, Millar and Robertson. McGinley then came close after a strong run that saw her shot across the keeper just miss the back post. Although the hosts were posing questions in the wide areas it was Swifts who were creating the better chances with some neat football. Their confidence was shattered when Colts took the lead when Keating was brave and beat McIllravey to head home from a dangerous cross. The lead was doubled shortly after with a great long range strike. The Swifts didn't let this deter them and came storming back with an excellent goal. A great sequence of passing between Robertson and Shaw fed McGinley who beat a couple of defenders and struck an excellent fierce drive past McSherry for her 24th of the season. The Swifts almost drew level just before the break when the alert McIntyre sent a 40-yad lob which looked a goal until McSherry parried the ball away and still found time to applaud the striker's effort.

Swifts will have been aggrieved at being behind at half-time after battling so bravely and contributing some excellent football, but Colts were a handful with some very effective wide attacking play.

The Swifts were hoping for another 45mins from their players and the game settled more into a midfield battle. Having weathered the storm they looked in the closing 10mins to find an equaliser. It would need some inspiration at this stage as the team were tiring and the home side had now deployed a range of substitutes. This was to prove conclusive as they finished the game strongly and blew the Swifts aside with goals from Wardlaw (2) and Fern.

It was harsh on the visitors who had played well but the Colts deserved their victory with a storming finish and strong running as the game reached its conclusion.

Swifts will be encouraged by the huge efforts of their 11 and by the performance of Robertson who showed class throughout and backed this up with a huge effort in a very competitive midfield area.

Having lost consistently to the Colts this season they will be glad to see the back of them but will look forward to returning next season to play in excellent facilities with very welcoming hosts.