Mens 1's vs Newwent

The first league game of 2015 saw the men's 1st XI travel to 2nd placed Newent and put in a heroic performance to come away with all three points.

The first half was a cagey affair, with both teams defending stoutly. Alan Gough put in a stellar performance, rolling back the years with some incredible saves. Newent managed to bundle the ball into the back of the net late in the half, but fortunately the correct decision was reached and a free hit was awarded to Swindon.

The second half saw much the same, with both teams defending well. Around ten minutes into the second half, the deadlock was finally broken. Pete Gilbert showed composure beyond his years, carrying the ball forward from left back. He found Chris Parsons in the left corner, who turned and slid the ball square into the circle. The defender failed to pick the ball and it bobbled through to Jim Towers, who poked the ball beyond the advancing keeper.

The home team were rattled and veteran keeper Gough continued to prove the difference between the two sides. Five minutes after taking the lead, Towers picked up the ball in the middle of the park from a loose Newent pass. Henry Cheney moved into space and Towers fed him the ball, allowing Cheney to do the rest. Beating two players, he remained composed as the keeper came to meet him at the top of the circle. Running at full tilt, Cheney scooped the ball on the reverse over the keeper and beyond the despairing defender on the line.

Swindon held firm, defending resolutely and looking to hit Newent on the break in the last fifteen minutes. Gough continued to thwart the efforts of the home side, with the support of the excellent back four comprised of Gilbert, Lewis Dyer, Sam Monks and Alex Hynes. Even after Steve Dixon saw yellow, the visitors were defiant, determined to see the result to the end. Swindon were unfortunate to concede a goal late on from a short corner, however it didn't change the result and the euphoric feeling of victory.

Next week we are at home against Bristol UWE. The season starts here lads.

MOM: Alan Gough, heroic performance.
DOD: Steve Dixon, yellow card.