Recap
Comag Matamata Swifts suffered another single goal defeat on Saturday, but this time it was against opponents that were vastly superior to most of the teams they’ve played so far this season. Visitors Papamoa, under the stewardship of ex-Swifts coach Duncan Lowry, currently top the league and for good reason. They pay a nice brand of possession football that, coupled with a watertight defence, has seen them installed as favourites for the 2018 Loaded WaiBOP Premiership title.
Papamoa began the match well, monopolising possession and putting the Swifts under defensive pressure. Matamata grew into the game, however, with the front three of Dayne Willemsen, Kody Nowell and Chris Walker putting the visitors under a reasonable amount of pressure of their own. In fact, Matamata created three decent opportunities before Papamoa scored the game’s only goal on 37 minutes, which was bundled home after they had hit the upright.
The Swifts were limited to several shots from range during the second half while keeper, Kyle van Waveren, made three top saves to keep his team in the game.
In the end, Papamoa was just a bit stronger in key areas, but Matamata’s performance was closer to where it needs to be. With key players now back in the side after injury, and a couple more close to returning, signs are looking positive for improved results over what will be a long season.
