Under 14s Reports - 2004-05

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Sun Apr 24: League Match 20
 Ledbury Swifts - 4 (Lynnes 2, Boyle 2)  
Dore Valley - 1

Swifts' difficult season ended on a high note with this convincing win over Dore Valley, which lifted them two places in the final standings. Swifts again used the 3-5-2 formation and took a while to settle down against lively opponents who were in confident mood after a 6-0 win the previous week against Wellington. Despite struggling to get hold of the ball Swifts had the pace of Thomas Boyle up front, which was causing Dore Valley problems on the break. Thomas Watkins was first to play him in from the back but he lobbed the ball wide as the keeper came out and then Josh Brookland’s long through ball saw Thomas have a shot which was well saved. Dore Valley took the lead when a long free kick came back off keeper Alistair Williams' legs and the visitor's striker had an easy finish. Swifts continued to attack well from the back and Louis Watkins was next to break forward with a surging run down the right, which produced a good save from his final shot. Thomas and Louis Watkins worked a short corner to produce a cross that Brookland headed wide as Swifts looked for the equaliser. With the half nearing it’s end Swifts produced a three-goal burst that turned the match their way. Matt Lynnes equalised for Swifts when he found space on the edge of the box and found the bottom corner of the net with a cool finish. Soon after Boyle found some time and space on the left hand side of the box to volley home a powerful effort to put Swifts in front and before half time Lynnes again found the space to add his second and Swifts third to make it a 3-1 at the interval. Swifts brought on the lively Ricky Day at half time and he soon played a part in the goal of the game, which effectively sealed the win for Swifts. Chris Davies won the ball in defence before finding Chris James on the left he played a short pass inside to Lewis Hodges who spread the ball wide to Day. Ricky raced down the left wing before crossing into the penalty box where Boyle rifled the ball into the net to put Swifts well in command. Swifts now relaxed a little and the hardworking Dore Valley side almost got a goal back when a slip by Jamie Onions gave them a chance but Williams produced a good save. Boyle almost got his hat trick after a good break by Davies gave him the chance but his shot was well parried and his effort from the rebound went over the bar. Harry Weaver and James Branch came on to give Swifts fresh legs as the game went on but neither team could add to their tally and Swifts finished winners by 4-1.


Sun Apr 10: League Match 19
Leominster Minors - 4
Ledbury Swifts - 1
No report available

Sun Mar 27: League Match 18
 Ledbury Swifts - 1
FC Phoenix - 8
No report available

Sun Mar 20: Tudors Building Supplies Cup Round 1
 Ledbury Swifts - 0
Hinton - 5
No report available.

Sun Mar 13: League Match 17
 Ledbury Swifts - 0
Pegasus Juniors - 1
Swifts failed to make their effort pay when they deserved at least a draw in a game of few chances, but failed to make the best of their opportunities. Pegasus started the brighter of the two and had an early shot that went just wide of the upright and they continued to press in the opening minutes but Swifts looked solid with Jamie Onions and Thomas Watkins making some timely challenges. Gradually Swifts started to pass the ball better and started to put some pressure on the Pegasus defenders. Joshua Brookland had a powerful long range shot well saved but at the other end Alistair Williams had to react sharply to snub out a Pegasus counter attack. The impressive Thomas Watkins then had a great run out of defence into the Pegasus half and shot just wide from the edge of the box as Swifts continued to look most likely to score. Brookland then went close at the near post from a corner but at half time it remained scoreless. The second half started in the same vein with both teams battling hard for the upper hand, but the first chance of the half went to Thomas Boyle, who was again having a good match in his new midfield role, when his long range effort went narrowly wide. Full backs Louis Watkins and Chris James were both getting through a lot of good work while Thomas Watkins was working tirelessly trying to get Swifts moving. But the only goal came midway through the half when Pegasus broke quickly and for once Swifts were stretched at the back and a cool finish from a through ball from the right gave Williams little chance. Swifts tried hard to get back on level terms and a neat corner saw Thomas Watkins play the ball back to Louis whose first time cross was headed wide by Lewis Hodges. Swifts put on Kieran O’Toole in an effort to change things up front but despite having plenty of the ball to often the final ball was not finding the intended target and for the most Pegasus defended well. As Swifts pressed forward towards the end Pegasus had a couple of good counter attacks but neither keeper was greatly tested. In the end time ran out and Swifts will look back with frustration as more league points slip away despite a hardworking display that deserved more.

Sun Mar 06: League Match 16
 Ledbury Swifts - 3 (Hodges 2, Weaver)
Hereford Lads Club Colts - 0
Swifts finally managed a win after a poor run of form and in doing so gained some revenge against a Colts side that had edged a thrilling 5-4 victory three weeks ago. Swifts started brightly and with Thomas Boyle playing a deeper roll in midfield they had more drive when going forward and soon took the lead when Harry Weaver played a good ball to Lewis Hodges in space on the right hand edge of the box and he did well to fire home a powerful shot. Boyle then set up a chance for Matt Lynnes but he was closed down quickly by the keeper and his shot went just wide. Swifts were having plenty of the ball and put some neat passing moves together very often started by Thomas Watkins carrying the ball out of defence and Chris James linking well from left back. Lynnes then put in a good cross that was just missed by Weaver but collected wide left by Kieran O’Toole whose return into the box was collected by the busy Colts keeper. At the other end Alistair Williams in the Swifts' goal was enjoying a quiet morning for a change with any rare attacks by the Colts snuffed out by the home defence with Davies making a couple of timely challenges. Swifts had chances to add to their lead with Joshua Brookland having a good run on the right, which set up a shooting chance for Hodges and then Lewis volleyed just over the bar from a Thomas Watkins corner to leave the half time score 1-0. The second half started with Swifts continuing the good work and soon the chances were being created again this time Louis Watkins who was again having a good match at right back crossing for Boyle to shoot only to see the Colts keeper tip the ball over the bar. The only danger seemed to be that Swifts had not scored more than the one goal and this kept Colts in with a chance but eventually Swifts added a second goal when another Thomas Watkins corner came out to Hodges on the edge of the box and his low shot went through a crowd of players and under the feet of Boyle into the net. Brookland then had a long range shot go just wide as Swifts continued to dominate and soon Weaver cut in from the left and fired a powerful shot into the far corner of the net to make it 3-0. Swifts brought on the fresh legs of Ricky Day on the left and Jamie Onions in midfield as the game went on and Hodges almost got his hat-trick with another good shot that was well saved by the keeper. Rhys Gwynne almost added his name to the score sheet when he volleyed just over from a good cross by Hodges but in the end Swifts were happy to settle for a win and gain some confidence for the matches they have left. 

Sun Feb 27: League Match 15
 Ledbury Swifts - 2 (Lynnes, O'Toole)
Bromyard Town - 4
Swifts poor run continued with this home defeat by a Bromyard side that Swifts had recorded their last win against a few weeks ago. Things had however started brightly for the home side when early on a throw in on the left saw Kieran O’Toole and Thomas Boyle combine with the latter crossing the ball into the box where Matt Lynnes fired the ball home. However Swifts defensive problems soon showed up when a Bromyard corner was collected on the edge of the box and the Bromyard forward was allowed time and space to hit a high shot over keeper Alistair Williams and level the score. For Swifts O’Toole was showing up well on the left and Louis Watkins was working hard at right back, but soon Bromyard had taken the lead when another attack was allowed to cut through the home defence unchallenged and leaving Alistair with little chance. Boyle was working hard up front on his own for Swifts and one tricky run saw his shot flash just wide. Joshua Brookland then did well on the bye line but his final ball failed to find a Swifts forward in the box. Swifts continued to allow Bromyard to much time and space on the ball early in the second half and had a let off when Bromyard should have done better with a clear opening but shot wide. Soon after however a shot through a crowded Swifts box somehow slipped through Williams' grasp and trickled into the net to put Bromyard firmly in control. Thomas Watkins tried hard to keep things together for the home side and Brookland was working hard in midfield but they found little support. From another corner midway through the half Bromyard wrapped up the points when they netted their forth goal with ease. They could have added more with better finishing as Swifts struggled to make any impact but just before the end with Bromyard relaxing Swifts grabbed a consolation goal when Harry Weaver did well on the edge of the box and his shot was only parried by the Bromyard keeper and O’Toole was on hand to fire home and make the final score 4-2 to Bromyard.

 Sun Feb 20: League Match 14
Hinton - 4
Ledbury Swifts - 0
No report available

Sun Feb 13: League Match 13
 Hereford Lads Club Colts - 5
Ledbury Swifts - 4 (Lynnes 2, Brookland, Boyle)
Swifts travelled to Hereford and despite a big improvement in effort this week some poor defending saw them lose this nine-goal thriller. Swifts welcomed back Alistair Williams in goal, Lewis Hodges as sweeper and this allowed Thomas Watkins to move into midfield with Matthew Lynnes moved up front Swifts were looking for a more positive outcome. Lads Club started with the wind at their backs and pressed Swifts back at the start. Watkins was battling hard in midfield and with Hodges covering well at the back Swifts began to play their way into the match. However Lads Club took the lead when Swifts failed to clear and a shot came in from the edge of the box that gave Williams no chance. Minutes later a long throw from the right was volleyed into Swifts net to put Lads Club two up and looking well in control. However to Swifts credit they responded well and soon cut the deficit when Lynnes pressed forward down the right flank and floated the ball over the keeper to make it 2-1. Soon after they squared the match when Thomas Boyle and Lynnes combined to set up a chance in the box which Josh Brookland took with a neat finish. Just before half time Watkins floated a free kick just wide. Playing with the wind in the second half Swifts looked to press back but it was Lads Club who took the lead again following a Swifts goal kick Lads Club won the ball easily in midfield and played the ball neatly through the Swifts defence to score their third. Swifts though showed greater fight in this match and never gave up, with their efforts rewarded with another equalising goal after Lynnes played Boyle through and he finished in style to make it 3-3. Lads Club though hit back yet again when Ricky Day made what appeared to be a good challenge a free kick was awarded and from this Lads Club floated over a free kick that was allowed to go all the way to the far post and give the home forward an easy tap in. Swifts though would not give in and showing much greater steel than in recent matches, Watkins was working hard in midfield and Boyle always looking a threat up front more goals were likely. In an amazing end-to-end match Swifts struck back yet again when Boyle did well on the right before crossing to Lynnes who grabbed his second of the match to tie things up once again at 4-4. The lively Boyle had the ball in the home net after a through ball from Day only to be ruled offside. Swifts now looked for the win and Jamie Onions played through to Boyle who set up Watkins with a shooting chance but his effort went just wide. This game though once again swung Lads Clubs way when again Swifts allowed the ball to drift across their box from an attack down the right and the onrushing left-winger prodded home their fifth of the match past an unprotected Williams. Swifts to their credit never gave up and before the end a Swifts corner from Day was almost put in by Onions and then Boyle cut inside and hit a fierce drive that the home keeper somehow managed to tip onto the bar and over. Time in the end, ran out and Swifts can be disappointed that a much improved effort was not rewarded due to some defensive lapses.

Sun Feb 06: League Match 12
 Ledbury Swifts - 0
Hinton - 6  
Swifts started this match at home against old rivals Hinton in determined mood and for a while it looked like they were going to put in a much better display than in the previous week's heavy defeat at Phoenix, but in the end Hinton ran out easy winners as Swifts gave in far too easily. The opening exchanges were even with both teams battling hard for the ball but it was Hinton who had the first shot on goal with an effort that went just over. Swifts responded well with the lively Thomas Boyle having a good run on the left before firing into the side netting. Then Chris Davies played a good ball through and Thomas fired across the face of goal from an acute angle. Swifts appeared to be on top and with Joshua Brookland and Jamie Onions looking much more fired up in midfield Swifts pressed forward. Matt Lynnes had a shot that went just wide following a Swifts corner but at the other end Kieran O’Toole had to be alert against a Hinton attack down the left. With half time approaching disaster struck for Swifts following a corner for them the ball was lost on the edge of the Hinton box and the visitors raced away down the right and a low shot at the near post gave stand in goal keeper Rhys Gwynne no chance. Worse was to come a few minutes later when poor defending resulted in a scrambled second goal for Hinton who went in a half time 2-0 up. The second half saw Swifts all too familiar collapse when instead of coming out and fighting to get back in the match they seemed content to let Hinton have all the play and apart from Thomas Watkins who tried his best to inspire the team most of the rest lacked the heart for a battle. Hinton’s third came again following a Swifts corner when they broke away and a soft shot was allowed to creep in at the near post. A good cross and a free header made it 4-0 soon after and although Boyle saw soon of the ball out wide on the right Swifts were desperate for him to work some magic in the centre of the field as Hinton continued to dominate. Before the end they had added another two easy goals to run out winners and condemn Swifts to a second 6-0 hammering in two weeks.

Sun Jan 30: League Match 11
Ledbury Swifts - 0
FC Phoenix - 6  
Swifts' up and down season took another downward turn with this comprehensive defeat against league leaders Phoenix. Again without a regular goalkeeper this time due to a training injury to Alistair Williams, Lewis Hodges was brave enough to play in goal but from the start Swifts were pegged back. Phoenix pressed hard from the start but Swifts' defence of Kieran O’Toole, Chris Davies, Thomas Watkins and Chris James battled well to keep them out. However Phoenix were always first to the ball all over the pitch and with the continued pressure it was only a matter of time before the took the lead. The opening goal came when a fierce shot from a narrow angle on the left was well saved by Hodges but he was unable to hold the shot and the Phoenix striker reacted first to fire home the rebound. Jamie Onions was trying to win the ball in midfield but when Swifts did win procession they rarely put any passes together and often gave the ball away too easily. The second goal came when O’Toole's attempted clearance on the right was charged down and the ball played into the box where the centre forward turned quickly and although Davies made a tackle the ball rebounded off the forward into the net. Before half time Swifts lost Thomas Watkins due to illness; he was replaced by Louis Watkins in defence. Soon a long ball from the right went across the box to the onrushing left winger who was left unmarked and he finished with a crisp shot. The second half saw little change as Swifts just did not have the fight to compete with their opponents, Thomas Boyle tried hard to create something up front but with little support it was always an unfair battle. At the other end Davies did his best to keep out the lively Phoenix forwards but it was all one-way traffic as Swifts' midfield failed to make any impact. Further goals came when a long range shot was deflected wide of Lewis and a fine right foot shot went in off the post before the scoring was wrapped up when Swifts failed to clear a low cross into the box and the Phoenix centre half was given plenty of time to pick his spot from the edge of the area to end a sorry performance from the Swifts. 

Sun Jan 16: League Match 10
Bromyard Town - 1 (McCauley)
Ledbury Swifts - 2 (Weaver, Boyle)
Swifts recovered from last week’s disaster to take the points with this hard fought win over local rivals Bromyard. Ledbury welcomed a number of players back for this encounter and a reshuffle of the pack saw a nervous opening by Swifts against a physically strong Bromyard side. But Ledbury's defence looked back to it’s old self with Thomas Watkins covering anything that did get past Chris Davies at centre back. Despite Bromyard seeing more of the ball neither keeper was seriously tested during the opening stages of the match. Rather against the run of play Swifts took the lead when Lewis Hodges floated in a free kick that Harry Weaver got on the end of and his looping header found the back of the net. Bromyard were winning many of the lose balls in midfield but Swifts looked dangerous on the break with the hardworking Thomas Boyle and Weaver putting pressure on the home defence. The two combined to good effect with Thomas sending the ball flashing across the face of goal without any one able to get a final touch. Just when it was looking like Swifts would take their lead in at half time Bromyard once again won the ball in midfield and this time the ball into Swifts box was not dealt with and Bromyard equalised to make it all square at the break. Kicking up the slope in the second half Swifts were again forced back early on but again Watkins was working hard to cover any danger and gradually Swifts started to look dangerous on the break. From a Matthew Lynnes throw on the right Josh Brookland had a shot well saved by the home keeper and then at the other end Davies did well to deflect a Bromyard shot just wide. Halfway through the half Lynnes played the ball forward towards Boyle and when the defender misjudged the bounce of the ball Thomas ran clear before clipping his shot over the advancing keeper into the net to give Swifts the lead. Bromyard continued to work hard but Swifts now had something to battle for and with Jamie Onions starting to win some of the midfield battle and Kieran O’Toole having a solid game at right back Swifts began to look stronger. They almost increased their lead when Watkins had a shot well saved and Chris James also had a good effort from a corner kick. Bromyard also had chances to equalise with a header from a free kick and another from a corner but in general Swifts looked solid at the back and ran out winners and take a vital two points to hopefully improve their league position.

Sun Jan 09: League Match 9
Ledbury Swifts - 1 (Weaver)
Hereford Lads Club Rovers - 13
Swifts new year got off to the worst possible start on Sunday with this comprehensive home defeat against a side that Swifts had beaten away from home earlier in the season. Swifts found their resources stretched beyond their limits for this match with players missing because of suspensions, family commitments, injuries, county cricket coaching or just failing to turn up forcing them to start the match with only nine men. This aside they started off battling well and making life difficult for their opponents. All over the pitch players were making tackles and working hard with Jamie Onions, Matthew Lynnes and Harry Weaver working hard through the centre of the pitch and Lewis Hodges deputising in goal handling well. Unfortunately after about 10 minutes just before their numbers were bolstered to ten, Lads Club scored a scrappy goal when Swifts failed to clear. Swifts responded well and with Chris James and Ricky Day working hard on the left they keep battling well as a team. Up front the lone striker Harry Weaver did his best to keep pressure on the Lads Club defence and after he did well on the right of the box he set up a chance for Kieran O’Toole whose shot unfortunately hit the bar. Swifts continue to defend well and frustrate the Lads Club forwards with Lewis Hodges making a couple of good saves when they did have a sight of goal. But in the end the pressure told and a fine chip shot from the edge of the area towards half time made it 2-0, Swifts continued to keep their spirit up and the persistence of Harry Weaver paid off just before half time when he put pressure on the Lads Club defence and robbed the keeper before forcing the ball home to give Swifts some hope. Unfortunately Swifts seemed unable to keep up the effort in the second half and an early goal after a fumble by Lewis Hodges in goal seemed to knock any fight out of them. From then on it was very much one-way traffic with Swifts totally demoralised and failing to make any sort of fight Lads Club almost scored at will. In the end Swifts conceded more goals in the second half of this match than in all of their previous matches this season. They will be hoping to have a full side out next week and put the memory of this game behind them as quickly as possible.

Sun Dec 19: League Match 8
 Wellington - 4
Ledbury Swifts - 0
Swifts never got going on a cold clear morning and suffered a disappointing defeat in their last match before Christmas. Wellington started in determined mood and pushed Swifts back from the start although Josh Brookland did have the first effort with a shot from the edge of the box that went just wide. Wellington soon took the lead when a strong run from midfield was allowed to cut through the Swifts defence unchallenged and a clinical finish gave Sam Beale no chance. Soon it was 2-0 when another move this time down the left saw Wellington given time and space to get in behind Ledbury again leaving Sam with no cover a clever lob gave him no chance. Swifts were struggling all over the pitch to win any tackles against a side that had a greater will to win the ball but one bright note was a run from the back by Chris Davies that gave Thomas Boyle a chance to fire in a shot that went just over. Soon after Sam Beale made a good save to keep Swifts in the game and they responded with a their best spell of the half. Ricky Day did well after taking a short pass from a Lewis Hodges free kick when his powerful shot struck the bar, soon after his free kick from the right just cleared the bar and then Hodges had a free kick well saved by the home keeper. But still Wellington were winning more of the ball and Beale again had to make a good save before combining well with Davies to snub out another attack just before half time. Swifts started the second half a little brighter with the hard- working Boyle playing a good ball through to Louis Watkins who shot just wide. But soon after poor defending allowed Wellington to make it 3-0 and wrap up the match when they were again allowed too much time and space in the Swifts box. Soon after Beale did well to tip over a long-range effort but then undid most of his good work by taking too long to clear a Davies back pass allowing the home forward to rob him of the ball and walk it into an empty net. Swifts tried to rally with Davies working hard at the back and Boyle doing his best to create a threat but Wellington were always well in control. Watkins did have a shot from the right well saved before the end but Swifts could not muster a consolation goal in a disappointing end to 2004.

Sun Dec 05: League Match 7
Leominster Minors - 1 (Aldridge)
Ledbury Swifts - 1 (Beale (pen))
Swifts picked up a useful point against an unbeaten Leominster side on a heavy pitch. Swifts started slowly and it was Leominster who pressed forward from the start with Swifts struggling to clear their lines despite the efforts of Chris Davies. However Leominster failed to trouble Sam Beale and Swifts gradually came more into the match. Josh Brookland played a good through ball to Thomas Boyle whose effort was well saved but still Swifts were doing more of the defending than attacking. Matthew Lynnes was working hard on the right for Swifts and Jamie Onions was making trying hard to win the ball in midfield but to often Leominster were quicker to the ball. Towards the end of the half Leominster won a free kick on the right flank and from the floated cross Leominster danger man Aldridge was allowed to get in a downward header that somehow slipped through Sam Beale’s grasp and crept over the line to give them the lead. Swifts responded well when soon after a long kick by Sam went all the way through to the home keeper but the hardworking Boyle charged down his attempted clearance and Lynnes volleyed the ball just over. Just before half time Swifts had to replace the injured Chris James with Ricky Day on the left flank but at half time the score remained 1-0 to the home side. Swifts levelled the match almost straight from the kick off in the second half when Lynnes played Boyle into the box where he was brought down to win a penalty. Up stepped keeper Beale who drove the kick home with a powerful effort that gave the home keeper no chance. The game became a more even affair now with Swifts looking more dangerous on the attack although Leominster too always looked sharp in attack. Beale saved well from a powerful long-range effort. Swifts then had a corner that saw Leominster break the length of the pitch but once again Sam made a good save. Swifts had a number of corners and free kicks on the flanks but failed to make the most of Lewis Hodges’ floated crosses as the half went on. The game became more open with tired legs on the heavy pitch taking it’s toll, Leominster were very quick on the break but Swifts defence made some timely clearances with full backs Kieran O’Toole and Thomas Watkins in particular working hard. Swifts almost snatched the lead when Boyle worked hard on the right wing to retain procession before finding Onions who in turn feed the ball to Harry Weaver whose first time effort hit the outside of the post. At the other end Beale was again called on to make another save before the end of a match that saw Swifts pick up a deserved away point.

Sun Nov 21: League Match 6
Ledbury Swifts - 0
Weston-under-Penyard - 1 (Moreton)
Swifts played hosts to Weston in a quick return fixture and following last weeks narrow 1-0 defeat another close encounter was expected. On a very heavy pitch Swifts started very brightly and soon had Weston on the back foot as they looked for the early goal. Josh Brookland almost scored at the near post following good work on the right by Thomas Boyle and soon after a Lewis Hodges corner set up a shooting chance for Chris James whose shot was punched out by the keeper only as far as Brookland who headed just over the bar. Weston survived this early pressure and started to look dangerous on the attack themselves but Swifts defence of James Branch, Thomas Watkins, Hodges and James were looking solid and with Sam Beale handling well behind them chances were few. A free kick from Lewis Hodges was driven low across the face of goal but nobody could get the touch that was needed. Alex Kitchen was working hard up and down the left flank as Swifts still worked hard looking for the opening goal but Boyle and Harry Weaver were again receiving the close attention of the Weston defence. Just before half time Swifts were forced to reshuffle when Thomas Watkins had to come off and with Jamie Onions forced to drop into the centre half role Louis Watkins came on in midfield. The second half saw Weston start brighter this time as Swifts settled down following their enforced change. They took the lead when a Swifts throw on the left saw Weston take possession and break forward quickly, their forward was allowed to run into the box and he slotted home despite the efforts of Beale in goal. Weston threatened to take control of the match as they continued to have Swifts on the back foot but gradually Swifts managed to get themselves back into the contest and following another Hodges corner kick Matt Lynnes shot inches wide of the post. Boyle was working hard to create something and following a good run on the right his cross flashed across the face of goal with Kitchen just failing to get a touch that would have brought a goal. Swifts introduced the fresh legs of Ricky Day and Kieran O’Toole as time began to run out and with the game now becoming an end to end affair. Just before the end a great through ball from Boyle set Brookland free through the middle but as he looked certain to score the Weston keeper race of his line and made a great save. This proved to be the last chance for Swifts and they ended up with nothing to show once again despite their best efforts on a very difficult pitch.

Sun Nov 14: League Match 5
Weston-under-Penyard - 1 
Ledbury Swifts - 0
For the second week running Swifts had a frustrating time in an even contest the saw them unlucky not to come away with the point they deserved. On a bright morning both sides started well but as with last week it was defences that were on top early on and the tone was set for another tight encounter. Swifts with Chris Davies again in commanding form at centre half and supported well by James Branch, Lewis Hodges and Chris James looked very solid at the back, while in midfield Thomas Watkins was getting through a lot of work. Chances were hard to create for both sides and only a long-range free kick from Lewis Hodges that was easily collected by the home keeper was all Swifts could muster. At the other end Sam Beale was also having a quiet time with the game confined to a midfield battle. Towards the end of the half Swifts had a great chance to take the lead when Thomas Boyle was brought down in the box for a clear cut penalty, unfortunately Thomas tried to place his shot and the keeper pulled off a fine save to leave the half time score blank. The second half started with Swifts having to replace the injured Hodges with Watkins dropping back into the sweeper role and Alex Kitchen coming on the left hand side. Swifts almost took the lead when Swifts collected a poor kick out by the home keeper and Josh Brookland shot just over. Shortly after from a throw-in on the right Weston fired the ball into the six-yard box and a home forward reacted quickest to fire home. Swifts responded well and with the game starting to open up Lynnes fired just wide from the right hand flank. Then Watkins had a great run forward from the back that set up Harry Weaver with a shooting chance but again Swifts did not hit the target. Next Kitchen shot just over the bar after good work by Lynnes on the right but Weston also looked dangerous on the counter with a shot fired just over Beale’s crossbar and Davies having to work hard to keep things tight. In the end Swifts failed to find the net for the second week running and this time suffered their first league defeat in a match when they should really have a had a share of the spoils.

Sun Nov 07: League Match 4
Pegasus Juniors - 0 
Ledbury Swifts - 0
Swifts travelled to Hereford on Sunday for their first match after a two-week break and although having the majority of the play they had to settle for a point. Swifts started brightly on the heavy pitch and almost set up camp in the Pegasus half as they looked for the early breakthrough. Matthew Lynnes and Harry Weaver combined to set up an early chance for Thomas Boyle but his shot was cleared. Thomas Watkins then put in a good header from a Lewis Hodges corner and Weaver had a shot well saved as Swifts continued to press. At the other end Sam Beale was having a quiet time and with Chris Davies having a solid game at centre half Pegasus struggled to look dangerous. As the half went on Swifts continued to make chances but most of their efforts on goal came from long range shots and Pegasus began to grow in confidence with Swifts failing to take the lead. At the start of the second half Swifts had to switch the injured Josh Brookland to right back and bring Jamie Onions into central midfield due to the lack of numbers and Swifts still managed to have the better of the play but struggled to create a clear opening. Weaver and Boyle continued to try had up front supported by Lynnes on the right but Pegasus continued to defend well in numbers. Louis Watkins had a couple of good runs late on and Boyle hit a shot just wide but the goal would not come. In fact Pegasus came close to snatching a win in the last minutes when a Beale clearance was charged down and then a good cross from the right flashed across the face of goal. The game was marred right at the end when Lynnes was sent off for alleged verbal dissent to end a frustrating match for Swifts.

Sun Oct 17: League Match 3
Dore Valley - 0 
Ledbury Swifts - 8 (Boyle 6, Weaver, Beale (pen))
Swifts made the long trip to Dore Valley on Sunday and bounced back from last week's cup defeat with an emphatic league victory. On a good playing surface Swifts started brightly and soon threatened the Dore Valley goal as they looked the more likely to open the scoring. Thomas Boyle duly put Swifts in front with a neat header after good work on the right by Harry Weaver. Thomas soon went close again when he shot just over after Chris James had set up the chance. At the other end Swifts' defence of Jamie Onions, Lewis Hodges, Chris Davis and Thomas Watkins looked solid against the rare Dore Valley attacks. The hard-working Weaver added a second for Swifts after good play from Boyle and James, and soon after Matt Lynes hit the bar with a shot from the edge of the box. Alex Kitchen then turned providerwhen he gave the lively Boyle the chance to make it 3-0 as Swifts took full control of the match and Sam Beale was finally called on to make his first save just before half-time. At the interval, Swifts replaced the injured Jamie Onions with Keiran O'Toole at right-back but they started the half in sluggish mood but soon started to create chances. Probably the best goal of the game then followed with a move starting at right-back with O'Toole and involving Louis Watkins, Weaver and Kitchen who set up Boyle to complete yet another hat-trick and give Swifts a 4-0 lead. This opened the floodgates and Boyle completed a double hat-trick with Dore Valley unable to stop another clinical finish. Thomas Watkins nearly scored when he volleyed just over, then he burst into the box only to brought down in full flight for a penalty kick. Sam Beale raced forward from his goal to dispatch the kick with some force to make the final score an emphatic 8-0  

Sun Oct 10: Dave Howes Cup Round 1
Wellington - 3 (McClay 2, Barling)
Ledbury Swifts - 2 (Boyle, Brookland)
After extra time
Swifts travelled to Wellington in the 1st round of the cup on Sunday and following their recent 1-1 draw in the league another close encounter was expected and so it proved when it took extra time to separate the sides in a five goal thriller. On a blustery morning it was Wellington who had the wind at their backs in the first half and Swifts had to battle hard to contain the lively Wellington forwards but generally both defences were giving little away. Joshua Brookland played a good through ball to Alex Kitchen but his run on goal was smothered by the home keeper and defence while at the other end Sam Beale produced a great tip round the post to deny Wellington and keep the score blank at half time. Swifts now had the wind at their backs in the second half but it was Wellington who broke the deadlock early in the half when a strong run down the right by the Wellington danger man produced a cross into the six-yard box where the unmarked forward scored with ease. Swifts responded well and soon started to create chances of their own when first Chris James set up a chance for Thomas Boyle that was well saved and then soon after Thomas had another shot on the turn again well saved. Alex Kitchen then had an in swinging corner pushed up onto the crossbar by the home keeper as Swifts pressed for the equaliser. At the other end the Swifts defence of James Branch, Lewis Hodges Chris Davies and Thomas Watkins had to be on their guard against the Wellington attacks as Swifts pushed further forward with the introduction of Harry Weaver up front. Sam Beale’s long kicks were helping Swifts counter attack quickly and from one of these Thomas Boyle again had another effort blocked by the home defence. With time beginning to run out Swifts finally got the goal to draw level when a throw on the left was well worked by Lewis Hodges and Alex Kitchen to allow Lewis to cross to the far post where Thomas Boyle planted a firm header into the net. The match ended with neither side finding a winning goal so extra time followed and it was Swifts who struck first when a Lewis Hodges corner was met by a Joshua Brookland header to put Swifts in front. The game was still swinging from end to end as Wellington refused to give in and following a Wellington attack that saw some frantic Swifts defending including a great header off the line by Thomas Watkins the referee surprised everyone including the home side by awarding a penalty for an alleged push. The penalty was clinically dispatched to make the score level again at 2-2 at half time in extra time. Wellington now had the wind advantage for the final period but it was Swifts inability to get in a telling tackle that allowed the Wellington captain to run through and score their third goal. Swifts tried hard and Thomas Boyle had a shot well saved before the end and then Chris Davies headed over the bar from a corner with the last effort of the match.

Sun Oct 03: League Match 2
Hereford Lads Club Rovers - 1 (Evans M)
Ledbury Swifts - 3 (Boyle 3)
SWIFTS travelled to Hereford on Sunday and did new kit sponsors Number One Sandwich Bar proud with a hard fought win over last season's league runners-up. Swifts were on the back foot from the start of this game as Lads Club forced the early pace and the defence of Lewis Hodges, Chris Davies, James Branch and Thomas Watkins had to work hard to protect Sam Beale's goal. Branch soon had to retire with an injury and Kieran O'Toole came on to replace him at right back. Swifts gradually began to get more into the game with Jamie Onions and Joshua Brookland getting more of the ball in midfield and up front Thomas Boyle was working hard to find space. Swifts started to create a few chances when first Harry Weaver shot just wide after good work by Boyle, then a Lewis Hodges free kick was helped on by Boyle in the box and Matt Lynnes just failed to find Chris James at the far post. Then Lynnes shot narrowly wide from distance after a Watkins through ball. The second half began with both sides struggling to get on top although Swifts defence had to work hard against the lively home forwards. The half sprang to life in bizarre fashion when a drop ball to restart the game after injury was over hit by a Lads Club player and flew over Sam Beale into the net to give them the lead, sportingly from the kick off the home side stood and allowed Boyle to run through to equalise. The home side continued to press but Swifts defended well particularly down the left flank where James and  Watkins kept a close eye on the skilful right winger. Swifts were also looking dangerous on the counter attack with Boyle now joined by Alex Kitchen continuing to be a threat. With about ten minutes to Swifts made a breakthrough when Brookland advanced into the box before finding  Boyle from the bye line. With his back to goal Boyle swivelled and found the corner of the net to give Swifts the lead. Lads Club now pressed even harder but Swifts' defence were in no mood to give anything away and Beale was confidently handling anything that did get through, although he was called upon to make a couple of fine diving saves. Just before the end a free kick for Lads club just outside the box was well defended and Watkins played a great through pass to Boyle who still had plenty to do before scoring yet another hat-trick and stealing a hard fought win for Swifts. 

Sun Sep 26: League Match 1
Ledbury Swifts - 1 (Hodges 10')
Wellington - 1 (Bird)
Swifts finally got their season underway at home to Wellington on Sunday and after an even contest both sides ended with a share of the points. A new look Swifts side soon settled and were working hard all over the pitch against a determined opposition with Jamie Onions getting in some good tackles in midfield and Joshua Brookland seeing plenty of the ball. Swifts took the lead after about 10 minutes with a great Lewis Hodges free kick from outside the box after an infringement by the Wellington defence and Swifts were looking good for the lead. Thomas Watkins and Chris James were linking well down the left hand side but Wellington always kept battling and soon equalised when a through ball split the home defence and a Wellington forward beat Sam Beale to the ball before finding the net. Thomas Boyle was working hard to find space but found it tough going with the Wellington tactic of man marking making it difficult. Thomas Watkins then went on a great surging run from the back only to be brought crashing down by a heavy tackle that would see him unable to continue in the second half. Just before half time Swifts should have gone in front again when Joshua Brookland burst into the box and his effort from a tight angle came back of the bar to Harry Weaver who just failed to score. HT 1-1. At the start of the second half Kieran O’Toole replaced the injured Thomas Watkins and straight from the kick off Matt Lynnes had a long range shot that curled just over. Then Sam Beale launched one of his long kicks that Thomas Boyle almost got on the end of but the game settled into a struggle as both sides cancelled each other out. Swifts defence of James Branch, Chris Davies and Chris James were keeping things tight and were well covered by Lewis Hodges in the sweeper role. Swifts began to tire as the match went on and Wellington had a break that forced Sam Beale to make a good save and just before the end they had a chance from a corner but the header went just wide. In the end a draw was probable a fair result for both sides in a game played in great spirit.

Sun Sep 12: Friendly
Ledbury Swifts - 4
Welland - 2
No report available.