Swifts Secure Promotion

Swifts entertained Dunfermline as they looked to win the points to secure promotion. After last week's defeat the Ladies thankfully found their feet and came out 2-0 winners.
The first 20mins of the match saw the visitors enjoy most of the possession with Walker always a threat with her movement. Leiper however was proving up to the task of repelling the threat. Although unable to turn this pressure into chances they almost took a deserved lead when a long range shot came thundering off the underside of the bar leaving Shaw to clear.
This was to prove a turning point as it shook the Swifts into action with McGinley sent through by Rigden only to mishit her shot. A Grossi cross was then almost deflected for an own goal. Nicholson was also now threatening down the right.
Rigden and Thatcher were now getting a grip in midfield as the Swifts looked for the opener. Todd broke free with a great run and saw her dangerous cross cut out for a corner. It was from the corner, delivered by McGinley, that McDonald saw her header brilliantly saved but she reacted first and fired the rebound home.
The goal settled the Swifts and just before the break the lead was doubled when a long ball from Shaw was chased down by McGinley who showed great desire to beat the last defender and slide a shot past the advancing keeper.
Having started the brighter the Pars will have been disappointed to have lost control while for the Swifts a 2-0 HT lead was a great lift but having thrown similar leads away twice recently it was not the comfort that one would expect. The home side were sent back on with instructions to see the job through.
To their credit the Swifts despite the wind kept the pressure on. Todd and McFadyen were linking effectively and both came close. Grossi and McGinley were doing the same on the right. McIlravey, Shaw and McDonald were secure at the back and ensuring that the Pars couldn't get back into the game. Smith was also now introduced and was adding a new threat up the right. Chances were now being created but a mixture of bad luck and very brave defending kept the score at two.
The Swifts closed the game out and with scores going the right way for them, promotion was secured.
Jason McCrindle was very pleased with the team. "I'm very pleased with how we went about things today. The past few weeks there has been a bit of pressure on the girls to get this win. We spoke before the game and the mood was relaxed and I think they played the game that way. I'm absolutely delighted for them, I really am. Every player has played their part in a successful season".
Steve Grossi added " I'd like to congratulate the players and Jason for their efforts today and for the promotion. The players have responded to Jason and his work, and the results are clear for everyone to see. To secure the League Cup and promotion in only our 2nd Year at this level and without so many regulars is an outstanding achievement. Well done to everyone and with one game left we have the opportunity to finish third".