Comag Matamata Swifts put in a ‘night and day’ performance at The Soccer Shop WaiBOP Premiership leaders, Papamoa, on Saturday, pushing their hosts all the way before succumbing 2-0.
The Swifts were a different side to the one that took the field seven days prior, having the best of the first half against a side that had won all ten of their games so far this season.
A freak goal for Papamoa, owing as much to the conditions as anything, not long after half time had the biggest influence on the final destination of the points. The hosts then doubled their lead not long after, effectively sealing the win.
Anton Ganas was unlucky with a great chance near the end, which would have set up a nervy few final minutes, but Papamoa saw the game out.
Waharoa Transport Swifts Reserves returned from West Hamilton with all three points in the bag after a 4-3 win from an open encounter. Stephan Turnbull continued his excellent recent form in front of goal with a hat trick, while Ben Johnson’s strike a quarter hour from time ensured victory.
The result kept the reserves safely tucked in mid-table with only an handful of fixtures remaining this season.
On Sunday, Challenge Matamata Swifts Ladies made no race of their match against visitors, Tokoroa, running out 4-0 winners thanks to another strong home performance.
A brace from leading scorer, Maggie Leaver, was complimented by further goals from Patrice Morrison and Jess Greenfield as the Swifts Ladies ran wild in front of goals. The team also hit the woodwork and were unlucky in front of goal on a host of further occasions as they demolished a team that normally gives them a tough battle.
Victory took Matamata to top spot in Waikato Women’s Division 1 as leaders, Waikato Unicol, weren’t in action this weekend.
The Good Merchant Players of the Day were Campbell Higgins (Comag Matamata Swifts), Maggie Leaver (Challenge Matamata Swifts Ladies), and Francisco Ontiveros (Waharoa Transport Swifts Reserves).