After last weeks narrow loss to leaders Putaruru the team approached this game with more confidence. However, the day started with the ritual of the head-count, 1,2,3 ah yes, 11. Gareth Clarke was forced to start the match after already playing a game in the morning for the College. Chris Bedford answered the call for a sub and willingly pulled on a shirt.

The first half was a tight affair with Melville's measured build up being answered by counter attacking from the Swifts. Richard Paradizo in goal spent much of the half fetching the ball from the mainly long range efforts that whizzed by.

The Swifts had a chance a chance to go ahead when Mike Collins did well to meet a far post cross supplied by Jono Monteith. Unfortunately it was a little high to kick and too low to head and the effort went over the top. Half time 0 - 0.

Melville opened the scoring with a pin-point cross being met at the far post. The powerful header gave the keeper no chance. The Swifts responded by upping the work rate. Rob Cox and Joel Chamberlain were working hard in midfield ably supported on the flanks by Mike Collins and Jono Monteith.

Gareth toiled well up front and managed to contain his inclination to try the razzle dazzle, after being shouted at by the most senior members of the team. A good interchange of passing saw Rob Cox power in a shot to equalize.

Melville went ahead again with a low cross being drilled home. Again Matamata reponded with Matty Monteith battling through to score a good goal.

Shortly after the Swifts were down to ten men with Andy Monteith pulling a calf muscle and having to leave the field. Chris Bedford had already taken the field for Mike Collins so no other sub was available.

The day ended cruelly when a wickedly deflected free kick gave the keeper no chance and Melville the victory.

I'm not sure what is worse playing badly and losing or playing well and still losing?

Matamata Swifts Reserves Richard Paradizo; Joseph Dew, Andy Monteith, Pete Challis, Adrian Phillips; Michael Collins, Rob Cox, Joel Chamberlain, Jono Monteith; Gareth Clarke, Matt Monteith.
Subs Chris Bedford.