The day started in rather bizarre circumstances with one of the players off to seek medical attention before the game had even started. Kieran McCabe was standing innonecently in goal when a ball connected with his thumb, exit Kieran, reshuffle team.

Matamata started play with a 3-5-2 formation. The first half was evenly contested with neither side getting the upper hand. It was a classic example of a fitter younger team (Matamata) versus a more experienced older team (Claudelands).

Matamata finally broke the deadlock with a well taken goal. Johnny Monteith found space for a good shot that the keeper managed to palm, fortunately he was on hand to knock in the rebound.

At the other end Claudelands were also keping the defence honest. Matt Aberhart pulled off a couple of excellent saves. The heat meant that everyone greeted the half time whistle with enthuisiasm.

The Monteith's again dominated the score sheet in the second half. Matthew managed to beat himself then two defenders before pushing the ball between the keepers legs. A little later he hit a nicely angled shot into the far corner of the net.

Matamata did not have it all their own way with Aberhart again excelling in saving a penalty after Peter Challis had (accidently) mown down a Claudelands striker. The ball was also cleared off the line a couple of times and the defence conceded a number of corners.

The midfield of Rob Cox, Mike Collins, Andrew Montieth, Joseph Dew, Luis Maldonaldo worked hard all day and made the most of the space that opened up later in the game.

The game was played in excellent spirit with the referee, Dave Mann, being applauded by both teams at the end.

Man of the match was Mike Collins for his industrious performance.

Matamata Swifts Reserves Matt Aberhart; Andy Monteith, Pete Challis, Marcelo Marquez; Joseph Dew, Rob Cox, Gareth Clark, Michael Collins; Luis Maldonado; Jono Monteith, Matt Monteith.
Subs Joel Chamberlain, Chris Bedford, Keiren McCabe.