Swifts hit by early Hibs Offensive

Swifts travelled to take on Hibs Development at their impressive new home in Tranent. It was to be a long day for the visitors who were hit by early Hibs pressure that put the game out of reach.

It was however Swifts who took the lead within two minutes when McIntyre swept a great shot from distance across the keeper who had advanced too far.

Rather than settle the Swifts and knock the home side back, the goal seemed to have the opposite effect and within a whirlwind 10 minute spell Hibs had turned the game round with three goals. The pick of these goals was the first where a one-touch move involving many players was finished by Johnstone who took the ball down on her chest and volleyed home, giving stand-in keeper Gray no chance.

The other goals from Notley and Russell in the 9th and 12th minutes were not flattering to a Swifts defence that was unusually hesitant and indecisive in the earlier stages.

The Swifts were now up against it and to their credit settled the situation somewhat at the back, but were now hurrying their possession as they strove to get back into the game. The game was effectively finished just before the half-time break when Leishman finished calmly. This was a body blow to the Swifts who had looked to regroup at half-time only two goals behind.

The second half was a more even affair with the Swifts correcting some of their first half errors and enjoying more possession. The home side were more relaxed now and still looking to move the ball quickly and were rewarded on the hour mark when Notley broke in behind with the Swifts claiming offside. It didn’t bother Notley who finished neatly.

The Swifts response was a McGinley effort that flew over the bar.

Having lost twice to Swifts last year Hibs will have been delighted with the result and it was fully deserved with their positive start and impressive football. For Swifts it was an out-of-character performance and one they will look to put behind them when they travel to play Glasgow Girls in a fortnight.