Papamoa 2-4 Swifts

Recap

Papamoa 2-4 Waikato Stud Matamata Swifts
WaiBOP Premiership

Waikato Stud Matamata Swifts opened their 2016 WaiBOP Premiership campaign with a 4-2 win at Papamoa thanks to a performance that was in parts solid, enterprising and, when required, gritty.

Goals, which have been in short supply for the Swifts during the last two seasons, were plentiful in this match. Joe Tompsett opened his account for the season on the quarter hour mark, before the hosts rattled Matamata with an equaliser midway through the half. Thankfully, that was about as close as Papamoa got all day.

The game was effectively won for the Swifts in the lead up to half time. Midfielder, Sam Masterson, restored Matamata’s lead in the 42nd minute with a fine strike, before Tompsett rattled home his second goal a minute later to make it 3-1.

Scott Parsonage slotted Matamata’s fourth goal, from the penalty spot, nine minutes into the second half to all but guarantee the Swifts would bring a priceless three points back home with them. Papamoa scored what was ultimately a consolation goal with 20 minutes remaining but Matamata was able to run the clock down to secure victory.

What will have been especially pleasing for head coach, Paul Richardson, is that this result was achieved with a team missing a number of regular players. Injuries, sickness and missed transfer deadlines played havoc with team selection, but the Swifts have enough depth now to put together a side that is competitive at this level.

Interestingly, this was also the Swifts’ first opening day win since 2009, the season they last won what is now the WaiBOP Premiership. A positive omen, perhaps?