LEDBURY SWIFTS U-12s 1 LADS CLUB U-12s 0

Swifts made it through to the 2nd round of the Wyvern Flooring Cup last sunday, thanks to a wonder strike for the second week in a row from Alistair Park. On a hard pitch which was made worse by a strong wind, both sides found a passing game of football very dificult. With the wind at their backs in the first half Swifts had most of the play, and Lads Club had trouble getting out of their own half. With Perry and Peplow working well down the left, and the dominance of Savidge and Davis in midfield, Swifts were camped outside the Lads Club box, but resolute defending and a bit of luck kept the score sheet blank. Lads club did have the odd breakaway, but only threatened once with a snap shot that went over the bar. Just before the break Crichard broke away down the right, alas his cross evaded everyone running in, so despite their efforts Swifts had to settle for a goalless first half. Swifts captain Ashley Nelder was replaced at the break by Powell due to an ankle injury. With the wind now against them Swifts defenders Davies, Bubb- Sacklyn, Park and Powell did a fantastic job in holding the Lads Club attack at bay. This allowed Swifts to still press forward, with Crichard now getting the better of the full back, and twinkle toes Celvin Ndluvu unlucky not to finish off some excellant play. But the best chance fell to Perry, when he lobbed the keeper only to see his effort just go passed the post. Then midway through the half Swifts got the all important goal, when awarded a free kick twenty five yards out, Park stepped up to take it and though the wind was against him, he scored with a superb strike passed the helpless keeper into the top corner. As expected Lads Club through caution to the wind, and for the first time Swifts were under a lot of pressure, but they have to thank the bravery of their keeper Reynolds for two fine saves. Peplow, Davis and Ndluvu were replaced by Hilling, Parsons and Smith to provide fresh legs, and it was Smith who had a shot blocked, and from the rebound Savidge shot straight at the keeper. In a frantic last few minutes Lads Club piled forward, but good defending and another brave save by Reynolds ensured Swifts booked a 2nd round tie against Hinton on Nov 2nd at home. Swifts will have a dress rehearsal this sunday when they play Hinton in the league at home ko 2-00pm.