Ledbury Swifts FC - Archive 2005-06

Under 10s Reports - 2005-06

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Sun Jun 25 - Swifts Tournament Plate Final
Ledbury Swifts - 1 (Pritchard)
Ross Junior Colts - 0

The day began with the team receiving their excellent new kit from Stelios Kyriacou, the proprietor of Frydays Fish Bar, who are the team’s new sponsors for the 2006-2007 season.

The tournament gave the Under 10’s their first experience of competitive 11-a-side football as they make their step up from the 7-a-side version next season. It was also a great opportunity to introduce six new players who have not previously had any league experience but who will be vital members of the squad for the forthcoming season.

Ledbury opened the group stage of the tournament with a very tough game against Meole Brace from Shrewsbury. Swifts quickly incurred a first half deficit of two goals when Meole Brace scored from a free kick and with a well taken header. However, the hosts gradually got into their stride and began to come to terms with the superior passing skills of the opposition. It was particularly pleasing to complete the second half without conceding any more goals against the team that convincingly won the overall tournament. The Swifts midfield of Daniel Sewell, Daniel O’Neill, Charlie McCarthy, Thomas Coleman, Eddie Jeffries and Will Notley had to work particularly hard in this game.

In the second game the Swifts came up against their league rivals from Golden Valley; it was a competitive game and Ledbury registered a well worked goal in the first half when Charley Jones volleyed the ball into the back of the net from a well taken corner by Jack Pritchard. Golden Valley responded with some good attacking play, but Jonathan Gooch in goal and Joe Llewellin, James Charlesworth, James Reid and Tom Brain in defence all held firm and enabled the Swifts to run out 1-0 winners.

Swifts third and final group game was against Bartestree. Ledbury had recorded a 1-0 win against them a week earlier in the Fownhope tournament – but struggled to contain a well organised and more experienced team. In the end Bartestree won by 3 goals to nil, but there were lots of positive things for the Swifts to build on in pre-season training.

Ledbury finished third in their group and hence went into the knockout phase of the Plate Competition where they were fortunate to receive a bye in the semi final and proceed directly to the final. Ross Junior Colts overcame Golden Valley in the other semi final and provided the opposition in the final.

Swifts clearly showed that they had learned from the earlier matches and started to show the basis of some good teamwork. The defence proved solid and reliable and the midfield worked extremely hard to create goal scoring opportunities. Dan Sewell made one particularly good run down the right wing and whipped in a great cross which Jack Pritchard just failed to convert.

Although Ledbury had the better of the play that first goal would just not come and the whistle blew for the end of normal play. In the knowledge that penalties were only 6 minutes away, the Swifts approached extra time with new vigour and were rewarded when Charley Jones drove a long ball forward from his own half. Jack Pritchard running from an on side position collected the ball and ran forward to the right hand edge of the penalty area before striking a firm shot into the back of the net. The boys went wild with delight, but quickly regained their composure to close down the game and register a well deserved victory.


Sun Jun 18 - Fownhope Tournament Quarter-Final
Credenhill Jets - 1
Ledbury Swifts - 0
Swifts were fortunate to start the tournament against a less experienced side from Llandridnod Wells; their greater strength and match experience was evident from the start and it was not long before the goals started to flow. Daniel Sewell got his scoring game back with avengence and quickly notched up a fine hat trick. Not to be out done, Charlie McCarthy demonstrated his growing confidence and also scored a hat trick with some well placed shots. William Notley also got on the score sheet with a close range effort and Thomas Coleman scored with a fine header from a well taken corner. Although the Swifts scored an emphatic 8-0 victory the game was played in the right spirit and everyone congratulated the Llandridnod Wells boys on their performance. Swifts' second match was against their old foes from Bartestree. This match turned out to be a much tighter affair. Fortunately the Swifts defence of James Charlesworth, James Reid and Will Notley were in fine form and were successful in containing the Bartestree attacks. Jack Pritchard also had a fine game in goal and Coleman was particularly effective in tracking the enterprising right winger from Bartestree. Ultimately the Swifts got just rewards for their efforts when Sewell latched on to a bouncing ball in the Bartestree penalty and lashed it into the top of the net. With maximum points Swifts then faced Pegasus Juniors in the toughest match of the group phase. Unfortunately Ledbury endured some bad luck in the first half when a Pegasus shot took a wicked deflection off a Swifts player and flew into the net. Pegasus almost went two up a few seconds later with another goal bound deflection, but Pritchard dived bravely to his right and tipped the ball around the post. Eventually Pegasus’s greater team experience paid off and they scored a second, but Swifts kept going and it was great to see Coleman power home his second header of the game. However, Pegasus ran out 2-1 winners. Ledbury then came up against Credenhill All Stars in their 4th group match. Although this game was initially well contested, McCarthy seized the initiative for the Swifts when he scored from a direct free kick. Swifts continued to create several additional opportunities with Pritchard’s long goal kicks being particularly threatening. Eventually McCarthy timed his run to perfection and was able to intercept one of the goal kicks and lob it over the goal keeper and into the net to give Ledbury a 2-0 victory. Swifts went into their final game against Ross Junior Colts needing a draw as a minimum to finish second in the group and to secure a favourable quarter final draw. With tiredness setting in, neither team was able to inject that extra skill or speed to create the first goal and the match ended in a well deserved 0-0 draw for both teams. Ledbury were drawn against Credenhill Jets in the quarter final and the opening period of the game clearly demonstrated that these were two well matched sides. Unfortunately Swifts had a penalty awarded against them for a hand ball in the early part of the second half and although Pritchard was successful in saving the fierce strike from the penalty spot, the ball was judged to have crossed the line as Jack battled to stop it re-entering play. Swifts battled bravely to try and get back into the game but this was always going to be difficult after such a morale sapping decision and against a well drilled Jets team. Eventually the Jets progressed to the semi final with a 1-0 win.

Sun Jun 03 - Nunnery Wood Tournament Semi-Final
Newtown Sports - 1
Ledbury Swifts - 0
Swifts went into the tournament with some apprehension missing three first team regulars and having been drawn in an extremely strong group. This apprehension quickly disappeared, however, as they more than contained an very strong team from Newtown Sports in their opening match. Newtown did eventually take the lead near half-time after a deflected shot found its way into the net. However Swifts responded positively and some clean handling by Jonathan Gooch in goal and some resolute defending by Will Notley and James Charlesworth laid the foundation for a strong comeback; Daniel Sewell made a strong run down the right wing and played a fine cross into the path of James Reid who was able to force the ball home and record his first goal for Ledbury. Energised by a great draw Swifts went then faced Ombersley Colts confident they would get their first tournament victory. However, the two sides were evenly matched and for most of the game succeeded in cancelling each other out. It required a goal line clearance from Jack Pritchard in the dying moments to earn a second successive draw. Worcester Colts provided the opposition for the third game and another challenging match. Daniel O’Neill playing in midfield for the Swifts contributed his best performance since his recent return to competitive action and was vital in containing the threat of the Colts. On this occasion the good fortune fell to Worcester when they successfully converted one of their few clear chances. Ledbury went into their final group game knowing they needed a win against Nunnery Wood Cougars to guarantee a place in the quarter finals. The game started well for them with Charlie McCarthy enjoying some early success down the right wing. One of Charlie’s strong runs forced a corner, which Jack Pritchard drove low and hard into the penalty area and it glanced off a Cougar’s defender and into the net. With everything looking set for the quarter final berth, the Swifts then conceded two disappointing goals in quick succession. The first went into the net off the hand of a Cougars striker when the referee was unsighted and for the second play was allowed to continue when a Swifts player was down injured. So Swifts were reliant on other results to stay in the competition, but things went their way and they got a quarter final berth against Evesham who topped the other group. Swifts really raised their game and Sewell had his best match of the tournament in central midfield. Daniel’s control and Notley’s robust performance in defence created the opportunity for O’Neill and McCarthy to press forward and in one break away attack Charlie was able to lob the ball high over the retreating defence. Pritchard saw it early, raced between the Evesham defenders and without waiting for the ball to bounce struck a firm volley into the back of the net. It was then ‘all hands on deck’ to prevent United equalising with everyone cheering with relief when the final whistle went. If almost by design, Swifts then came up against Newtown Sports for the second time in the semi final. This was another closely fought encounter with Charlesworth playing valiantly in defence despite suffering from blisters. Again, the deciding factor was always going to be who scored first and on this occasion the good fortune fell to Newtown Sports who secured their place in the final with a 1-0 win.

Sun Apr 30 - Torquay Tournament Final
Colron FC - 3
Ledbury Swifts - 1 (Danter)
Swifts travelled to Devon for the second year running to participate in the Torquay Championship. The U10’s tournament involved 5 teams who were all scheduled to play each other once in a league format with the top two meeting in the final. Swifts knew from the outset that the quality of the opposition was very high and that it would be a great test of how they had developed over the last 12 months. This was especially true as their first match was against Colron FC who won the tournament last year. It was evident from the opening seconds of the game that Ledbury were highly motivated; their attack chased every lost cause, the midfield contested every ball and experienced defensive partnership of Ben Butler and James Charlesworth controlled the Colron striker superbly well. As the game progressed Colron were increasingly reliant on long range shots, but to their frustration they found Jonathon Gooch in superb form in the Swifts goal. As the final whistle blew the Swifts were delighted to hold Colron FC to a 0-0 draw. The second match against Newton Abbot B proved to be an easier match with the Swifts running out 4-0 winners. Ledbury opened the scoring midway through the first half when Jack Pritchard and Kieron Danter exchanged some good passes down the left wing which concluded in a firm shot on goal by Kieron. The ball struck a Newton Abbot defender and re-bounded into the net. This was quickly followed by further goals from Rob Phillips and Charlie McCarthy – both with well struck efforts from outside the penalty area. Daniel Sewell put the seal on an excellent victory by scrambling the ball over the line for a well deserved fourth goal. The Swifts began day two knowing that their first game was against the other ‘form’ team in the competition – Warndon Villages. Ledbury have previously struggled to cope mentally and physically with two extremely tough games in quick succession, however, on this occasion they matched Warndon in every aspect of the game. In a closely contested game the decisive moment came just before half time. Pritchard, playing in the lone striker role, latched on to a deflected forward pass, controlled the ball on the edge of the penalty area and fired a superb shot past the Warndon keeper to leave a vision of a bulging net and screaming Ledbury supporters. The final league game for the Swifts ended in a 0-0 draw against Newton Abbot A despite some consistently creative play from McCarthy, some super long range efforts from Thomas Coleman and tremendous competitive spirit on the right wing from William Notley. However, the Swifts had done more than enough to book their place in the final which was inevitably due to be against Colron FC. The match proved to be a worthy final in every way, the two teams played quality football in a great spirit and there was tremendous support from both sets of parents and supporters. On this occasion, Colron FC enjoyed the better of the play in the first half and converted all of their chances in superb style to quickly rack up a 3-0 lead. To their credit the Swifts kept their heads held high and continued to battle away. This continued into the second half under the committed captaincy of Danter and it was fitting that Kieron scored for the Swifts to keep the tie alive until the final whistle blew. Ultimately Colron FC secured a well deserved 3-1 win, but the Swifts finished the tournament on a high knowing that they had not conceded a goal until the final and had lost a closely fought match to a truly excellent team. In the evening of the second day the Swifts took great pride in receiving their runners up medals from John Gregory the former Aston Villa manager. The Swifts would like to especially thank Pearson Knight Storage Systems for their generosity in sponsoring the tour.

Thu Apr 27 - League Match 21
Ross Juniors Colts - 0
Ledbury Swifts - 3 (Danter 2, McCarthy)
The evening matches in Ross are always an occasion that the Swifts look forward to and this was no exception. The only cause for concern was the length of the grass on the pitch and this certainly impeded good quality football from both sides. Swifts started the match in a more adventurous formation than normal with only one central defender, 4 midfielders and one striker. Whilst Ledbury's players were clearly un-used to this format and struggled to maintain their positions at time – they always looked in control of the game and created many good scoring chances. Daniel Sewell and Jack Pritchard both went close to opening the scoring with good shots on goal, Charlie McCarthy made some telling passes from midfield, Rob Phillips made some important tackles and James Charlesworth looked solid in defence. Eventually Kieron Danter opened the scoring with a firm strike after a determined run and pass by the influential Sewell. In the second half, Swifts continued to rotate their players are regular intervals in preparation for their forthcoming tour to Devon. Whilst this disrupted the quality of their play, it did give Ledbury the opportunity give players more experience in different positions with Daniel O’Neill and William Notley both performing well in midfield. McCarthy also took advantage of his opportunity by superbly lobbing the Ross goal keeper from the half way line ‘Beckham style’ to settle the Swifts nerves and to give them a solid 2-0 foundation. As the game progressed towards a close, Ben Butler made some very strong runs from defence which almost led to a third goal. It also left some gaps at the back, but Jonathon Gooch continued his good run of form in goal with another commanding performance. Danter finally sealed a 3-0 victory with a well taken second goal.

Sat Mar 25 - League Match 20
Westfields - 2
Ledbury Swifts - 2 (Sewell 2)
As both teams have been occupying adjacent mid-table positions for the last few weeks, everything was set for a well-balanced contest and it was fitting that the match was played in fine weather and on a good pitch. The match began brightly, with both teams playing attacking football. Westfields, in particular, made some good early moves, with their instrumental midfielder and captain initiating a number of these. However, James Charlesworth and Rob Phillips both defended calmly, despite the height advantage of several Westfields players, and prevented any clear strikes on goal. As the mid-point in the first-half approached, Swifts began to exert their influence and created a number of problems for Westfield down both wings. One of these resulted in a low cross into the penalty box from Jack Pritchard, which seemed to cause confusion for both the Westfields defenders and the Swifts attackers. After several attempts to score and clear the ball, Daniel Sewell was able to force it across the line and give the Swifts a 1-0 lead. Unfortunately for the Swifts, their lead only lasted for a few minutes before Westfields equalised by slotting the ball home from a long goal-kick. Swifts reacted positively, under the influence of captain Kieron Danter, and enjoyed another positive passage of play. During this period, they forced a number of corners and were also awarded a free-kick just outside the Westfield penalty area. A Pritchard shot evaded the Westfield wall and crashed against the cross bar, before dropped to the goal-line, where Sewell was ready and waiting to re-establish the Swifts lead. Once again, Swifts were only able to hold their lead for a few minutes before a Westfield's striker collected the ball just outside the penalty area. The ball flew across the face of the goal and into the far side of the net, to re-establish parity just as the half-time whistle blew. The second half began in much the same way, with both teams evenly balanced. William Notley continued to demonstrate his growing match experience by making solid contributions for the Swifts in both midfield and defence. Charlie McCarthy also showed off his shooting skills with a couple of strikes on goal, which were well kept out by the Westfields defence. Westfields also continued to enjoy their attacking moves and the Swifts were reliant on the continuing good form of their goal keeper, Jonathon Gooch, to keep the scores level. Eventually, Westfields did come close to scoring, when their right winger went on a mazy run, leaving the Swifts defence in his wake. However, Daniel O'Neill was alert to the situation and made a fine intercepting tackle. As the minutes ebbed a way, Danter urged his team on, but despite winning and taking several long throw-ins, Swifts were not able to find that all-important third goal and the match ended in a well-deserved draw.

Sat Mar 18 - Mailes Cup - Semi-Final
Ledbury Swifts - 0
Leominster Minors - 2
Having reached the same stage in the cup competition last year, Swifts were keen to progress one stage further and get to the final. The weather and pitch conditions were ideal and the match started with both teams seeking to gain control of the midfield area. Daniel Sewell and Daniel O’Neill worked very hard to win possession in midfield for the Swifts and although they succeeded on many occasions, they found the Leominster midfield in a resolute mood. Indeed it was proving very difficult for the Swifts to create any good passing moves from midfield and hence Jack Pritchard, playing in the lone striker role, had to survive on some long goal kicks from Jonathon Gooch and some robust clearances by the Swifts defence. Indeed the Swifts best goal scoring opportunities all came from set pieces in the first half. Firstly a fine corner created confusion in the Minors penalty area which almost enabled Sewell to force the ball over the line and secondly Kieron Danter went close with a firmly struck free kick. Gradually, however, Leominster began to create some fluid passing moves in midfield and their holding midfield player started to have a strong influence on the game. Danter increasingly had to cover a lot of ground in his midfield role to provide protection to the Swifts defence and James Charlesworth and Rob Phillips had to be particularly alert to the movement of the Leominster forwards. Eventually the deadlock was broken when Leominster broke down a Swifts forward move out of defence and strung together a neat series of passes to create and score the first goal of the game. The Swifts kept their heads up despite going a goal behind and Charlie McCarthy and William Notley added some fresh momentum up front and in midfield when they joined the play. The match continued to be a very close encounter and the Swifts almost equalised when Jack Pritchard played a fine pass into the feet of O’Neill on the edge of the penalty area. Daniel struck the ball firmly only to see it hit the cross bar and go behind for a goal kick. Minors continued to have their opportunities as well – but found Jonathon Gooch in fine form in the Swifts goal. Then just as time was running out, Leominster won another corner; they correctly sensed that the Swifts were tiring and took a quick short corner which created an opportunity for a firm strike on goal. Unfortunately the Swifts were not able to close the shot down quickly enough and the ball flew into the back of the net. Inevitably, a few moments later the whistle blew to end the game and Leominster secured a well deserved win.

Sat Mar 11 - League Match 19
Ledbury Swifts - 0
Leominster Minors - 1
Prior to the game, the conditions appeared to be much improved from the previous week with the weather being much warmer and with the pitch having dried out significantly. Everything looked set for a free flowing and competitive game of football. Indeed this proved to be the case with Leominster quickly demonstrating there superior league position with an opening period of good possession and firm passing. All the visitors looked very comfortable on the ball and they worked patiently to open up goal scoring opportunities. However, the Swifts were highly motivated for this important series of games. Daniel Sewell, Ben Butler and Daniel O'Neill worked endlessly in midfield to close Leominster down and prevent that final opening pass and when Minors did get the ball trough they only succeeded in finding James Charlesworth or Rob Phillips in defence who were able to expertly clear their lines. Gradually as the first half progressed Leominster began to increasingly rely on long range shots to score the opening first goal. On most occasions their shots were made under pressure and flew wide, but on one occasion Jonathon Gooch made a superb finger tip save at full stretch to prevent the ball going into the top corner. Although Leominster did enjoy a lot of possession, the Swifts did create attacking moves of their own with Kieron Danter being the instigator of the two key moves. On the first occasion Kieron released the ball out of defence into the feet of Jack Pritchard on the right wing who was immediately able to pass the ball diagonally forward into the path of Rob Phillips for an a strike on goal. In the second move Kieron again combined with Jack when he made a firm pass down the line into space which Jack was able to intercept, beat his defender and cross into the penalty area. Both teams used their substitutes wisely to try and break the deadlock and both Wlliam Notley and Charlie McCarthy made important contributions for the Swifts in the second part of the first half. However, that opening goal would just not come for either team. In the second half, both teams started in much the same way as in the first half with on this occasion the Swifts playing with a higher tempo and creating some concern in the Leominster ranks. Sewell and O’Neill both made strong runs and shots on goal and Pritchard again broke free from the right wing only to see his goal bound shot parried away by the Leominster keeper. Eventually, however, Leominster re-gained their composure and put the Swifts defence under consistent pressure with Gooch being called upon to make another important save. As time gradually ebbed a way and a draw looked the fairest result, fate stepped in to make a defining difference. A Leominster attack down the right wing was flagged as being out of play by the linesman. This in combination with a Swifts player being down injured legitimately induced the Swifts to stop playing. However, with virtually every player on both sides standing still, the Leominster player on the right wing crossed the ball into the penalty area and the Leominster striker side footed it into the net unopposed. Despite the protestations of the linesman the referee allowed the goal to stand and with time almost having run out deprived the Swifts of a very hard fought draw. To their credit the Swifts reacted positively to going a goal behind, played out the dying seconds in good spirit and congratulated Leominster on their win.

Sat Mar 04 - League Match 18
Ledbury Swifts Rangers - 0
Ledbury Swifts - 2 (Pritchard, Sewell)
Initially the pitch was very conducive to fast and free flowing football and the Rangers in particular took early advantage of this with some clinical passing moves in midfield which required Daniel Sewell to make two important interceptions in front of the Swifts defenders. However, within a few minutes the surface of the pitch became very soft and muddy and made play equally difficult for both teams. Having survived the initial attacking moves from the Rangers, the Swifts gradually got into their game and created a number of attacking moves of their own with Daniel O’Neill, Kieron Danter and Ben Butler all going close after good runs. However, on each occasion the final shot on goal was disappointing as the Swifts struggled to force the mud laden ball off the ground and through the air. When the Swifts did get a better strike on goal, they found the Rangers goalkeeper in fine form. Eventually, however, the Swifts pressure finally told when Jack Pritchard was able to latch onto a bouncing ball in the Rangers penalty area and hook it into the top right corner of the net past an unsighted Rangers goalkeeper. The Rangers reacted very positively to going a goal behind and their instrumental captain continued to marshal their defence in fine style. This was especially true when Rob Phillips made two great passes into the Rangers penalty area immediately after coming onto the field. As half time approached the Rangers continued to mount attacking moves of their own and Jonathon Gooch had to make one very timely interception in the Swifts goal to prevent the Rangers from drawing even. The second half began in much the same way as the first with both teams playing competitive football in a good spirit. Ben Butler went just wide with a trademark header from a well taken corner and William Notley saw his firm shot go just past the post. However, Daniel Sewell finally settled the Swifts nerves with a low shot into the corner of the net. This second goal allowed the Swifts to relax a little and create some better passing moves with Charlie McCarthy showing some fine touches in midfield. The Swifts almost scored a third goal when Butler slotted a slide rule pass into the feet of Pritchard to put him one on one with the Rangers goal keeper only to hear the whistle blow for an injury further down the field. As the end of the match approached the Swifts adopted a more attacking formation and this in turn created more openings for the Rangers. The Rangers made a number of strong attacking runs which required James Charlesworth to remain ever vigilant in the centre of the Swifts defence. Eventually the final whistle blew and the Swifts secured a 2-0 victory in a very closely contested game. The Swifts would like to thank the Rangers for hosting a great competitive game of football and for providing excellent post match refreshments.

Sat Feb 25 - League Match 17
Ledbury Swifts - 1 (Butler)
Bartestree - 3
Last season’s fixture is etched in everyone’s memory for the freezing conditions and history almost repeated itself for this game as very cold winds gusted across the pitch. Despite the adverse weather conditions, both teams started the game well with the high tempo and strong running style of the Swifts being matched by the neat passing and use of space style of Bartesree. As last season’s match had ended in a close draw, it was always going to be a battle of who scored first goal. On this occasion Bartestree struck the first blow when their influential central midfielder played an excellent diagonal ball into space on the left wing which their striker was able to intercept, run towards goal and rifle a low shot across the face of the goal and into the far corner of the net. Swifts responded to this setback very positively and almost immediately from the re-start, Ben Butler collected the ball in his own half and charged towards the Bartestree goal. Ben managed to evade a number of desperate tackles on the way before neatly driving the ball home under the diving Bartestree keeper. Although the scores were now level, Bartestree were proving very creative and initiated a number of great passing moves. Indeed it was not long before Jonathon Gooch was called upon to make a great save in the Swifts goal from a cross field ball that was whipped in with great pace. The Swifts also had their moments with William Notley almost converting a corner with a fine header and with Jack Pritchard rising to expertly control a long forward pass on his chest only for the ball to bobble on landing. However Batestree’s superior passing finally told and the secured a well worked second goal just before half time. In the second half, the Swifts started resolutely with James Charlesworth calm and reliable in defence and with Kieron Danter turning in a captain’s performance by covering every inch of the pitch. This solid base gave Sewell, Charlie McCarthy and Rob Phillips more opportunities in midfield with Dan going particularly close to scoring with a well worked shooting opportunity. Although both Charlie and Rob made a number of telling passes the Swifts attackers continued to find the Bartestree defence in a mean mood. Ultimately the game was decided mid-way through the second half when a Bartestree player took a long range shot from near the halfway line. In true ‘Beckham’ style and with the aid of a deflection the ball flew high and long through the air before just dipping under the bar and into the back of the Swifts net. Although both teams played committed football until the final whistle there were no more goals and Bartestree scored a deserved 3-1 victory

Sat Feb 18 - League Match 16
Golden Valley - 2
Ledbury Swifts - 0
Swifts started the match in a positive way and appeared to be benefiting from the excellent playing surface. Daniel Sewell forced an early save from the keeper after breaking free from midfield and Jack Pritchard forced an equally good save when he too got in a good shot from the right wing. As the first-half progressed, Golden Valley grew in confidence and Kieron Danter and Rob Phillips in midfield and Ben Butler and James Charlesworth in defence had to work hard to maintain control. Swifts were eventually caught out by a shot from outside the penalty area which took a deflection and ended up in the back of the net. Whilst the Swifts were coming to terms with conceding the first goal, the home side immediately scored a second to take a 2-0 lead in the run up to half-time. The second half began with both teams playing good competitive football. The Swifts enjoyed a lot of good possession, but Golden Valley also had their moments and the Swifts were very reliant on some excellent defending by William Notley and one excellent save from Jonathon Gooch. Midway through the half, Butler made a tremendous run from one end of the pitch to the other and beat several home players on the way. But once again the well-marshalled Golden Valley defence were able to shepherd him away from goal and secure a goal kick. In the final minutes of the game the Swifts changed tactics with Sewell moving into attack and although Charlie McCarthy was able to release Dan with one well-timed pass that first goal would just not come.

Sat Feb 11 - League Match 15
Ledbury Swifts - 3 (Phillips, Butler, Sewell)
Bromyard Town - 0
Although there had been a hard frost during the night, the pitch started to thaw about one hour before the game and by 11.30 was deemed just playable. Swifts once again demonstrated their growing maturity by playing to the agreed game plan and with every player holding their position well. This approach enabled them to gain control of the game from the outset and create a number of good attacking moves. Daniel Sewell and Jack Pritchard both had early strikes on goal, only to find the Bromyard goal keeper in excellent form. The Swifts also won several corners in the first half and should have converted at least two into goals – but apart from one header from Ben Butler that went just over the bar, that opening goal continued to prove elusive. As the end of the first half approached, the rapidly thawing pitch made the conditions very heavy under foot and it was important to the Swifts that they were able to introduce Charlie McCarthy and William Notley in midfield to help sustain the pressure on the Bromyard defence. Charlie showed his creative capability as he released Sewell on two occasions with well timed passes and Notley showed his lack of fear as he sought to head the ball towards goal from a continuing stream of corners. When the half time whistle blew, everyone began to think it was going to be just the same as last season when the Swifts and Bromyard completed a very frustrating 0-0 draw. However, on this occasion, the Swifts used the half time break to change tactics with Pritchard moving up front and Sewell moving into midfield. This change seemed to give the Swifts even more momentum than they had in the first half and it was not long before Rob Phillips was able to force the ball home after a goal mouth scramble. The opening goal seemed to give the Swifts the lift that they needed and with Jonathon Gooch looking comfortable in goal and James Charlesworth resolute in defence, the Swifts were able to mount attack after attack. Incredibly these attacks more than often than not ended in corners. Fortunately Pritchard was having a great day in taking a string of superb corners and it was always going to be just a matter of time before Butler was able to connect with one. Indeed that moment arrived with 5 minutes to go when Ben timed his run from outside the penalty area with perfection and scored the second goal for the Swifts with a firm header. Sewell then quickly added a third with a low drive after a strong run down the right wing. Eventually the Swifts ran out 3-0 winners of what had been a very finely balanced game until the last 15 minutes.


Sat Jan 28 - League Match 14
Ledbury Swifts - 2 (Sewell, Pritchard)
Credenhill Colts - 0
This was an important match for the Swifts to win in order to move up the table in the second half of the season. Although the match was played in dry conditions, the pitch was very heavy under foot and the grass was just that little bit too long. This, in combination with the aftermath of an epic battle the previous week, and a few minor injuries resulted in a disappointing first half performance from the Swifts. Whilst Ben Butler and James Charlesworth held firm in defence and Jonathon Gooch was relatively untroubled in the Swifts goal, the Swifts midfield struggled to create any meaningful chances for Daniel Sewell up front. Indeed the Swifts were limited to a few long range shots from Sewell and a firm header from Butler which flew just over the bar after a well taken corner by Charlie McCarthy. In the half time interval the Swifts decided that a change in formation was needed with Sewell dropping back into midfield and Jack Pritchard taking over the striking role. This change in tactics seemed to galvanise the Swifts midfield and they immediately started to put the Credenhill defence under more pressure. In particular, both McCarthy and William Notley were able to make more positive forward moves. Indeed in one attacking move, Sewell spotted the Credenhill goal keeper off his line and deftly lobbed the keeper from half way inside the Credenhill half to give the Swifts a 1-0 lead. Credenhill did, from time to time, create their own goal scoring opportunities, but with the Swifts defence holding firm it was not long before another goal scoring opportunity arrived. Sewell completed a fine run down the right wing with a firm cut back into the penalty area. Pritchard controlled the ball, pushed it wide of the oncoming defender and slotted it back across the face of the goal and into the far corner to put the Swifts 2-0 up. Ledbury, urged on by their captain Kieron Danter, continued to press forward and it was not long before Pritchard set Kieron free on goal with a well timed pass between two Credenhill defenders, however, on this occasion the Credenhill keeper made a fine save. Although there were a few late minute scares, including one which required a goal saving tackle from Butler, the Swifts were able to hold onto their 2-0 advantage and see out the remaining minutes of the game.

Sat Jan 21 - Mailes Cup - Quarter-Final
Wellington - 1
Ledbury Swifts - 1 (Pritchard)
Swifts win 5-4 on penalties
With Wellington sitting second in the league and having scored a 3-1 league win over the Swifts before Christmas, this was always going to be an uphill challenge However, no one expected such a nerve racking encounter. Swifts began the match by playing in a very disciplined manner and by seeking to close down the Wellington midfield at every opportunity. This limited the home side's possession and created a firm foundation for a number of great attacking moves with Kieron Danter, Rob Phillips and Ben Butler all going close with fine shots. Although that all important first goal did not come immediately, Swifts kept pressing forward and it was not long before Dan Sewell made a fine run down the left wing and provided a low cross into the box which Jack Pritchard was able to force over the line after a well timed run. Wellington responded positively to going a goal behind and created a lot of forward momentum. However, their chances from open play were limited by Danter who had an excellent game in the ‘holding’ midfield role and by some resolute defending from Butler and James Charlesworth. On the occasions when Wellington did have a shot on goal, they found Jonathon Gooch in fine form in the Swifts goal. Eventually, Wellington did level the score just before half time with a great header from a well taken corner. The balance of the first half remained a very tense affair with Phillips, Sewell and William Notley working extremely hard to contain the Wellington midfield and with Pritchard doing his utmost to keep at least two defenders fully occupied. Unfortunately the second half brought no respite from the tension as both teams sought to break the deadlock. There were some good attacking moves on both sides, but on every occasion a spectacular tackle of save kept the score level. James Charlesworth, in particular made one excellent running tackle for the Swifts which almost certainly prevented a second goal for Wellington. The Swifts introduced Charlie McCarthy to provide some fresh legs and new ideas up front, but despite Charlie’s valiant efforts that second goal just would not come. With tension gradually rising the referee signaled the end of normal time and 10 minutes of extra time began. As to be expected, both teams continued to play determined and competitive football but in so doing cancelled each other out, so it was not long before the time for a penalty shoot out arrived. Swifts began the penalty shoot out really well with Butler, Pritchard and Sewell converting the first 3 penalties for the Swifts and with Jonathon Gooch making a fine save to give the Swifts a 3-2 lead. As nerves started to jangle, Wellington had a second penalty well saved by Jonathon, however, the Swifts were unable to capitalize on this as their fourth penalty was saved and their fifth went just wide. It was time for ‘sudden death’, James Charlesworth stepped forward for the Swifts and scored a fine penalty. Wellington also scored their sixth penalty and hence it was time for the goal keepers to become goal scorers. Gooch was able to save his third penalty of the day when he pushed the ball wide from a firm strike by the Wellington keeper. Then without having time to think he stepped forward and smashed the ball home to the seal a heroic win.

Sat Jan 14 - League Match 13
Swifts - 13 (Sewell 3, Phillips 3, Pritchard 3, B Butler, Danter, Notley, McCarthy)
Weobley Colts - 0
Swifts started the game in their normal exuberant fashion and enjoyed a lot of early initial possession. It was particularly pleasing to see the good passing play had been taken from the training field into a live match. One of these early passing moves, initiated by Kieron Danter, led to a fine cross from Ben Butler which in turn was met with a firm goal scoring shot by Dan Sewell. This was quickly followed by a second goal for the Swifts when Rob Phillips scored with a low left footed drive from the edge of the penalty area after some further inventive passing down the left. Soon Charlie McCarthy and Jack Pritchard joined the action and Jack quickly increased the Swifts lead to 3 goals when he followed up a long range shot from Butler to force the ball past the diving Weobley keeper and into the back of the net. In the remaining minutes of the first half the Swifts went close a number of times with many long range shots just clearing the Weobley cross bar. However, the pressure eventually told and both Butler and Danter scored with long range shots to give the Swifts a 6-0 half time lead. In the second half, the Swifts demonstrated their growing maturity as they kept their passing game going and sought to improve their league goal difference. Phillips quickly notched up his second goal of the match with another fine left foot shot and Pritchard also lashed the ball home from a tight angle. The Swifts superiority was also demonstrated by the number of corners that they won and it was great to see Sewell score with a clean header after a well taken corner by Danter, while William Notley scored his first league goal of the campaign after having played an excellent first half defensive role and McCarthy opened his account with a trademark shot from outside the penalty area. Even with a 10 goal lead in the bank the Swifts continued to press forward in search of more goals and Phillips, Sewell and Pritchard all completed their hat tricks in the closing minutes. A lot of credit must go to Weobley Colts who played the game in tremendous spirit right up to the final whistle despite a 13 goal deficit. Indeed the Colts enjoyed their best period of the game in the final quarter and if it had not been for the ever present defensive alertness of James Charlesworth and some timely interceptions from Jonathon Gooch in goal, the Swifts would not have kept a clean sheet.

Sat Dec 17 - League Match 12
Ledbury Swifts - 7 (Sewell 3, Phillips 2, McCarthy, B Butler)
Leominster Minors Colts - 0
Swifts started the game very brightly and their attacking intentions were clear from the outset when Ben Butler made a strong surging run down the right wing to put the Leominster defence under immediate pressure. Indeed it was not long before Charlie McCarthy collected the ball from just outside the Leominster penalty area and struck an immediate shot on goal which the Leominster goal keeper was only able to help into the net. Ledbury kept up the pressure and almost went into a 2-0 lead when Daniel Sewell scored from a well taken corner by Kieron Danter but unfortunately the goal was disallowed for a corner flag infringement. This could have been a turning point in the game as Leominster took heart from this decision and made their own first attacking move of the game, but fortunately James Charlesworth was in fine defensive form for the Swifts and made another great goal saving tackle. Danter then made a great forward pass into the path of Rob Phillips who was able to drive the ball into the net pass the diving Leominster goal keeper to put the Swifts 3-0 up. This was the signal for the Swifts to make their first half substitutions and Jack Pritchard and William Notely both made a quick impression when Jack set up Sewell for his first true goal of the game with a fine pass and William went close to recording his first league goal with a long range shot. In the second half the Swifts continued to dominate the play and won a series of corners which should have resulted in several goals However, it was only after the fourth corner, that Ben Butler was able to seize on a goal mouth clearance and drive the ball into the bottom of the net with a low firm drive. Pritchard then almost got on the goal scoring sheet as well when he met a great cross from Phillips to head the ball home, only to see the ball rebound of the Leominster cross bar. So far, Jonathon Gooch had had a relatively quiet time in goal, but he did get to handle the ball twice in the closing minutes of the game and used this possession well in launching two long goal kicks. The first was collected by Sewell who ran strongly at the Leominster defence and struck the ball home with typical aplomb. The second was intercepted by Phillips who also quickly advanced on the Leominster goal and scored his third goal in two games to enable the Swifts to run out 7-0 winners.

Sat Dec 10 - League Match 11
Ross Juniors Rebels - 1
Ledbury Swifts - 1 (Phillips)
This game was always going to be a tough challenge for the Swifts, given the previous close encounters between the two sides. However, Ledbury especially needed to show their character following a disappointing performance against Wellington in the previous match. The Swifts started the match in a positive mood with Kieron Danter playing a solid holding role in midfield and with Rob Phillips and Daniel Sewell probing down the wings. The formula appeared to be working well and the Swifts enjoyed a lot of early possession. Sewell in particular made a couple of great runs down the right, but delayed his passes slightly and was well tackled by a resolute Ross defence. However, it was not long before Jack Pritchard intercepted a pass from Danter, turned his defender the wrong way and laid a pass into the feet of Phillips. Rob took a couple of strides with the ball and drove a fierce shot into the back of the net to register his first league goal. As the second half progressed Charlie McCarthy and William Notley came on to the pitch for the Swifts and almost combined to score a second goal for Ledbury when Charlie played a fine pass into the feet of William. William advanced on the Ross goal keeper and placed the ball wide of him with the outside of his right boot – only to see the ball go just wide of the far post. Charlie also went just wide with a fine shot. As the first half drew to a close, however, Ross gained in confidence and after a number of attacks managed to score a well deserved equalizer when the Swifts failed to clear their lines. Whilst Ledbury had held the upper hand in the first half of the match, Ross certainly did in the second half with the Swifts needing to be at their defensive best to hold an increasingly confident Ross team. Ben Butler and James Charlesworth were called upon to make a number of solid tackles with James making a goal saving interception on more than one occasion. Jonathon Gooch also had an excellent game making a number of fine stops at the feet of the Ross strikers. Pritchard almost increased the lead for the Swifts after a strong run down the left wing resulted in a free kick which flew just over the bar. However, the game finally ended in a 1-1 draw.

Sat Dec 03 - League Match 10
Ledbury Swifts - 1 (Pritchard)
Wellington - 3
Going into the match Wellington were one league place above the Swifts so this was always going to be a close encounter especially as the pitch was very damp and muddy underfoot. Both teams started in tentative style and struggled to control the ball and the uncertainty in play from both teams inevitably created some goal-mouth scrambles at both ends. Swifts created an early chance when Daniel Sewell created some pressure in the Wellington penalty area which resulted in the ball breaking free for Jack Pritchard to have a shot on goal; only to see the Wellington keeper make a good save. The Swifts' attacking move was quickly followed by a similar move from Wellington – but on this occasion the Swifts were unable to clear their lines and Wellington scored with a low strike across the front of the goal and into the bottom corner of the net. Despite going behind Ledbury responded positively and with James Charlesworth doing a great man-marking job on the most threatening Wellington player and Ben Butler and Rob Phillips exerting good control in defence – Swifts continued to push forward in search of the all important equalizer. Indeed their best goal scoring chances came from corners created by Sewell and Kieron Danter; Butler almost scored with a fine header from the first corner and Pritchard came close directly from the second. However, the superior Wellington passing game began to take its toll and Jonathon Gooch was called upon to make some critical saves. The Swifts were also very reliant on the fresh legs provided by Charlie McCarthy and William Notley to stem the flow. Shortly after the re-start Wellington scored a second goal from a well worked corner and it looked as though Swifts were in for a torrid time. But to their credit they continued to press forward with the help of a tactical change managed to score a well deserved opening goal. Charlesworth took a throw in deep in the Wellington half and with a trademark long throw caused confusion between the Wellington goal keeper and one of the Wellington defenders. Pritchard took advantage of this and nipped in between them to stab the ball home. Re-energised by the goal the Swifts continued to push forward in search of the equalizer – but as is often the way, Wellington opened up the Swifts defence with some fine passing moves and proceeded to score a conclusive third goal to run out 3-1 winners.

Sat Nov 26 - League Match 9
Credenhill Jets - 3
Ledbury Swifts - 4 (Sewell 3, Danter)
The Swifts' plans were changed at short notice due to illness so it was a relatively inexperienced team that took to the field. However, Ledbury started very well and enjoyed a lot of early position; Rob Phillips and James Charlesworth were able to push forward from defence and both were able to make surging runs down their respective wings before making good crosses and shots on goal. As a result it was not long before Daniel Sewell was able to open the scoring with a shot from just inside the penalty area. Swifts kept up the pressure with Charlie McCarthy and Callum Hodges providing consistent support in midfield. Inevitably Credenhill did break free and their first serious attack on goal caused confusion in the rapidly retreating Swifts defence which led to a defensive pass being made across the edge of the box which was intercepted by a Credenhill striker who was able to force the ball home passed the unsighted Jack Pritchard. Despite this Ledbury continued to push forward with Kieron Danter being particularly effective in central midfield and he was instrumental in the two goals that quickly followed; in the first Kieron had a firm strike which was deflected into his own net by a Credenhill defender and then he created a defence-splitting pass for Sewell to score his second of the game. William Notely came on midway through the first half and played an instrumental role in consolidating Swifts' 3-1 lead with some fine defensive headers and tackling. After the break Credenhill quickly got into their stride and created problems for the Swifts midfield and defence with some long clearances and Charlesworth was called upon to make two very important tackles to keep the Jets at bay. However they eventually exposed the Swifts defence and set up an opportunity to drive the ball home. Ledbury responded quickly with another goal from Sewell after a fine pass from McCarthy, but Credenhill continued to keep Pritchard under pressure and he was called on to make two fine saves. However, the third time the ball re-bounded off Jack’s legs and Credenhill were able to force the ball home to bring it back to 4-3. There then followed a nervous five minutes to the final whistle but fortunately the Swifts were able to hold onto their slender lead.

Sat Nov 12 - Mailes Cup Round 1
Ledbury Swifts - 6 (Sewell 4, Butler, McCarthy)
Pegasus Juniors Colts - 0
This was the Swifts first cup match of the season and with a quarter final beckoning the Swifts were keen to get off to a good start. Ledbury had played Pegasus Junior Colts in a recent league match and had conceded two early goals. Hence the Swifts approached the start of the game in a determined and disciplined manner. Indeed it was pleasing to see that the new midfield formation of Jack Pritchard, Kieron Danter and Rob Phillips held their formation really well and provided excellent cover to their defence despite the initial threat created by Pegasus. The first half was a very closely contested period of the game with chances being created at both ends, however, Daniel Sewell did eventually break the deadlock for the Swifts with a close range shot and Danter almost doubled the lead a few seconds later with a long range shot from outside the box. Pegasus also had their chances in the first half and James Charlesworth made some excellent tackles and Ben Butler made a fine defensive header to help the Swifts towards a 1-0 lead at the half time interval. In the second half, the game opened up a little and the Swifts midfield, boosted by the presence of Charlie McCarthy, were able to create more chances for Sewell. Daniel scored a second goal with another close range shot and then a third with a fabulous long range effort from the right touchline. Wary of their previous match against Pegasus, the Swifts kept up the pressure and the presence of William Notely in attack ensured that the Swifts maintained their attacking presence. Indeed it was not long before Pritchard made a telling pass into the feet of Sewell who was able to ease the ball home for his fourth goal of the game. In the excitement of all the goals, Pegasus continued to mount a counter attacking threat and Jonathon Gooch was called upon to make another classic finger tip save to keep a clean sheet for the Swifts. However, as the game drew to a close Butler demonstrated his growing goal scoring threat from corners when he went close with a firm header which flashed over the bar. Then within seconds he went one step further when he scored with a low drive from outside the penalty area after the ball emerged from yet another corner. In literally the dying seconds of the game, Pritchard swung in another corner to the far side of the box where McCarthy was waiting to head the ball back across the goal and into the top corner of the net to enable the Swifts to run out 6-0 winners.


Sat Nov 05 - League Match 8
Belmont - 3
Ledbury Swifts - 1 (Sewell)
Swifts were hoping to secure a second victory against Belmont having achieved a winning result in the previous season. However, within a few minutes of the start, it was evident that Belmont are a much improved side and fully deserving of their position in the league table. Ledbury started the game very positively, enjoyed a lot of early possession and were for once able to turn this into a goal when Dan Sewell deftly lobbed the ball over the advancing Belmont goal keeper. On scoring an early goal, the Swifts normally go on to dominate the game, but Belmont quickly raised their game and their superior passing skills became very evident. Kieron Danter, Sewell and Charlie McCarthy had to work extremely hard in midfield to contain a Belmont midfield that was growing in confidence. Similarly Ben Butler and James Charlesworth had to be very alert to control the Belmont attack which was working the ball very effectively in and around the Swifts penalty area. Every so often Ledbury were able to break free from their defensive duties and mount a counter attack. Jack Pritchard, in particular had a fine header and run down the left touch line, only to find himself outnumbered by the Belmont defence. As the home side piled on the pressure, Jonathon Gooch was called upon to make some very timely interceptions at the feet of the strikers and made one finger tip diving save which kept Belmont from leveling the scores. Inevitably, however, the pressure finally told and they leveled the scores just before half time with a low drive into the net. In the second half, the Swifts rang the changes with Callum Hodges and Rory Gunning coming onto play and both made positive contributions to a Swift team that aggressively competed for every ball. Callum made one great run and cross down the left wing in particular, which could have easily led to a goal. Somehow the Swifts managed to keep up a very competitive and high tempo presence on the pitch up until the very end of the game and it looked increasingly likely that they would secure an incredible and well deserved draw. But this was not to be – Belmont went ahead with a header from a well taken corner in the 23 minute and then sealed the game when they completed a fine counter attacking move in the dying seconds of the game to secure a 3-1 victory.

Sat Oct 29 - League Match 7
Ledbury Swifts - 4 (Sewell, Danter 2, Pritchard)
Weobley - 1
This was an important match for Swifts to regain their form and confidence after a difficult match against Greyhound City Sports the previous week. However, Ledbury made it doubly difficult for themselves when they failed to defend an early free kick and gave Weobley a dream start. Swifts, however, demonstrated their growing maturity, by responding in a positive and patient manner to this setback. Kieron Danter continually urged his team forward from midfield and Daniel Sewell and Charlie McCarthy all went close to opening the scoring with Charlie having a particularly fine shot from long range. The Weobley goal-keeper was having a good game and managed to keep the Swifts at bay for most of the first half, however, Sewell eventually leveled the scores with a surging run and well taken goal. As the first half drew to a close. William Notley came on for the Swifts and showed some great touches in his debut game. During the half time interval Ledbury challenged each other to get their passing game going and it was great to see this desire turned into action when the second half opened with the best passing move of the match. Sewell made a fine pass from the centre circle out to the right wing where Jack Pritchard controlled the ball with one touch and crossed to the far side of the Weobley penalty area where Danter was waiting to fire the ball home. This second goal gave the Swifts a much deserved boost and with Jonathon Gooch, Ben Butler, Rob Phillips and James Charlesworth providing excellent defensive cover, the Swifts were able to keep pushing forward. It was not long before Butler made another forward pass down the right wing which Pritchard was able to collect and race towards the goal line before cutting the ball back into the path of Danter; Kieron steadied himself and drove the ball home for his second goal of the game. Swifts continued to keep up the pressure for the balance of the second half and were able to score a conclusive fourth goal when Pritchard stabbed the ball home with his left foot from just outside the Weobley penalty area.

Sat Oct 22 - League Match 6
Greyhound City Sports - 5
Ledbury Swifts - 0
This was always going to be a tough match for the Swifts as Greyhound City Sports had won the league last year and are undefeated this year. The game was played in excellent conditions and Ledbury Swifts started really well and enjoyed the best of the first 10 minutes. Jack Pritchard had two early shots on goal and Daniel Sewell and Kieron Danter forced several early corners which unfortunately did not lead to that all important first goal. Gradually, however, Greyhound started to get their game together and create a number of goal scoring chances and midway through the first half Greyhound ran the ball to the Swifts goal line and cut the ball back for an easy tap in goal. The Swifts defence did not challenge the cutback because they believed that the ball had crossed the line – but unfortunately the referee did not see this and Greyhound were awarded the goal. As is often the way the Swifts were downcast at the way in which they conceded the first goal and Greyhound were able to capitalize on this and score a second quick goal after some good work in midfield. Conceding two goals in such a quick fashion stung the Swifts into action and some great defending by Jonathon Gooch, Ben Butler, Rob Phillips and James Charlesworth kept Greyhound at bay. James in particular made an important goal saving tackle from his right back position. The Swifts did ultimately concede a third goal just before the break – but they went into the half time interval in a much more determined mood. Greyhound started the second half in excellent style and scored two early second half goals to leave the Swifts with a real uphill task. The Swifts changed formation and moved three people into midfield. This seemed to bring the Swifts that bit extra control in midfield and Dan Sewell, Kieron Danter, Charlie McCarthy and Callum Hodges enjoyed an extended period of control. Dan, in particular worked tirelessly to try and create a goal for the Swifts – but despite a number of efforts on goal that clear cut opportunity would not just fall for either Dan or Jack Pritchard. Greyhound City Sports eventually won the game 5-0 and all though the best team on the day ultimately won – it might have been a much closer game if it had not been for the first controversial goal.

Sat Oct 15 - League Match 5
Pegasus Juniors Colts - 2
Ledbury Swifts - 4 (Butler 2, Sewell 2 (1 pen))
The Swifts took to the field without their influential captain, Kieron Danter, and for this first 15 minutes struggled to exert their influence and control on the game despite seeming to be the better team. Ledbury sporadically created a number of early goal scoring chances with Charlie McCarthy hitting the bar with an early strike and with Jack Pritchard swinging in a number of well taken corners. But, however much they tried the ball would not find its way into the net. Inevitably it was not long before one of the sporadic losses in concentration led to a long through ball from the Pegasus defence. The ball eluded the whole of the Swifts team and landed at the feet of their lone striker who was able to calmly slot the ball past the advancing Jonathon Gooch. This initial goal was shortly followed by another long range shot which again managed to by pass all of the Swifts players and creep into the back of the net. Ledbury did not give up – but a further finger tip save from Gooch was required to prevent the Swifts falling even further behind. After a robust half time discussion, the Swifts started the second half confident that they could turn the game around and it was not long before an infringement in the Pegasus penalty area led to a penalty for the Swifts. Ben Butler stepped up to take the penalty and slotted the ball home with a low drive to the right of the keeper. This change in fortune gave the Swifts the boost that they needed and with James Charlesworth and Rob Phillips playing solidly in defence it created more opportunities for Dan Sewell, Callum Hodges and Charlie McCarthy to put pressure on the Pegasus goal. Inevitably this pressure told and the Swifts drew level with a fine run and shot from Sewell. This in turn was quickly followed by a long range shot from the left touch line by Butler which scorched into the top of the net. Swifts continued to grow in confidence and their passing game started to flow. Pritchard chased down a ball into the left corner and crossed a fine ball into the path of Sewell that almost resulted in a fourth goal. However, that fourth goal eventually did come when Dan completed another surging run from midfield and drove the ball home from close range. This last goal completed a fine second half display and resulted in a 4-2 win for the Swifts.

Sat Oct 08 - League Match 4
Hinton - 0
Ledbury Swifts - 5 (Sewell 3, Pritchard, McCarthy)
The Swifts started the game with an attacking 2-3-1 formation and in so doing enjoyed a lot of early possession. Indeed it was not long before some good play down the left wing by Kieron Danter and Jack Pritchard, ended with Jack making a slide rule pass across the front of the Hinton goal into the path of Daniel Sewell who expertly controlled the ball and drove it home with a firm shot into the corner of the net. Hinton reacted to going a goal behind in a very positive manner and enjoyed some great attacking moves themselves. Ben Butler and Rob Phillips made a series of important defensive tackles for the Swifts and on several occasions Jonathon Gooch had to come to the edge of is area to deal with some threatening balls through the middle. However, it was not too long before the Swifts energy and persistence paid off when Pritchard intercepted a long through ball from Sewell and deftly slid it wide of the goalkeeper into the far corner of the net. This goal seemed to be the turning point in the match as a few minutes later Sewell reacted first to a well taken corner by Danter to score his second goal of the game. As the first half progressed Callum Hodges and James Charlesworth came onto the pitch for the Swifts and through some fine midfield and defensive play helped ensure Ledbury went into the half time break with a 3-0 advantage. After the re-start Swifts again enjoyed a lot of early possession and it was not long before Charlie McCarthy made another telling pass from midfield direct into the path of Sewell. Daniel was quickly able to elude his marker, latch onto the ball and strike the ball home for a great hat-trick performance. As the game headed towards the final minutes, the Swifts were able to make a number of changes without disrupting their control of the game. Indeed a fifth goal came when McCarthy intercepted a Hinton goal kick and calmly passed the ball into the net despite the valiant efforts of the retreating Hinton goal-keeper.

Sat Oct 01 - League Match 3
Ledbury Swifts - 3
Hereford Lads Club - 2
Lads Club have proved to be very determined and effective opposition over the last two years and it was no surprise that they began the game very brightly and quickly laid seige on the Swifts goal. If it had not been for the sharpness of the defence and an incredible goal mouth clearance from Dan Sewell, then Lads Club could have easily taken the lead. However, as is often the way, an early Swifts counter attack resulted in a bobbling ball coming free on the edge of the Lads Club penalty area which Jack Pritchard was able to force home through the keeper’s legs. This early goal gave Swifts the confidence that they needed and the game became more open and balanced with opportunities being created at both ends. As half-time approached, Charlie McCarthy came on as substitute and almost instantly sidestepped a Lads Club defender and slipped a short pass to the feet of Kieron Danter allowing him to ease the ball pass the advancing keeper and into the back of the net to give the Swifts a 2-0 lead. Lads Club, however, never give up and they quickly reduced the arrears with a well taken goal. The second half began very much like the first with some very competitive play from both teams. Jonathon Gooch in the Swifts goal created a number of chances with some long goal kicks and it was one of these that led to Ledbury's second corner of the game. Danter swept the ball into the Lads Club penalty area and was delighted to see the it re-bound into the net off the keeper. The joy was short lived, however, as Hereford again quickly scored to once again reduce the arrears to a single goal. The last 10 minutes saw a superb defensive display from Ben Butler, James Charlesworth and Rob Phillips as they held Lads Club at bay.

Sun Sep 25 - Friendly
Ledbury Swifts - 6
Bromyard Town - 1
The Swifts began the match in much the way that they began their previous match against Westfields with some organised and controlled football. Although the Swifts dominated the first 15 minutes of the game, Bromyard defended resolutely and that first goal would just not come. Ultimately it took a little bit of luck to break the deadlock; Jack Pritchard, taking his second corner of the game, swung a low and hard cross into the Bromyard penalty area and saw it take a deflection off an advancing defender and fly into the back of the net. Despite that Bromyard came back strongly and played some good and attractive football for the balance of the first half. However, the half-time team talk seemed to do wonders for the Swifts who came out with renewed energy. Jonathon Gooch in goal and James Charlesworth and Rob Phillips in defence started the second half well and gave the freedom for the Swifts midfield and attack to put Bromyard under a period of constant pressure. Kieron Danter the Swifts captain ably supported by Rory (making his debut) and Callum Hodges in midfield continually urged his team forward and it was almost inevitable that more goals would come and eventually they did. Dan Sewell scored two classic trademark goals from strong surging runs, Ben Butler scored a fine goal with a great long range shot and Charlie McCarthy scored two well taken goals with low drives from just outside the penalty area. Although they were facing a heavy defeat, Bromyard continued to play attractive football with great spirit and it was only fitting that they scored the best goal of the game. With about 10 minutes to go their striker went on a long run in which he eluded three Swifts defenders and forced the ball home to give Bromyard a great consolation goal.

Sat Sep 17 - League Match 2
Pegasus Juniors - 3
Ledbury Swifts - 0
The match was played in perfect weather conditions on a good pitch. The Swifts, having had several close encounters with Pegasus in the past, set out to stifle the attacking threat of Pegasus and to avoid conceding an early goal. The tactics appeared to holding well as some resolute defending from James Charlesworth, Kieron Danter and Rob Phillips and some really clean handling in the Swifts goal from Jonathon Gooch kept Pegasus at bay for much of the first half. Eventually however, a strong run down the left from Pegasus’s impressive striker resulted in a firm shot on goal which took an unfortunate deflection and ended up in the back of the net. Swifts responded positively with some trademark surging runs from Daniel Sewell and Daniel O’Neill and a fine shot from Ben Butler – but unfortunately a goal was not forthcoming. Ledbury changed tactics at the beginning of the second half with Jack Pritchard coming on as a lone striker. Whether the change in tactics was the catalyst or not, Swifts then proceeded to dominate the first 15 minutes of the second half and everyone in the team worked extremely hard to create the equaliser – but to everyone’s frustration it would just not come. Callum Hodges also came on in midfield to freshen things up, but as the end of the game approached Pegasus scored a second goal with a fine header from a well worked corner. Then to rub salt into the wound they scored a third and decisive goal with the help of another deflection. Unfortunately the final score did not do justice to the fine team performance from the Swifts. Pegasus were clearly rattled in the second half as they came under immense pressure, but they survived to win 3-0.

Sat Sep 10 - League Match 1
Ledbury Swifts - 4 (Sewell 3, O'Neill)
Westfields - 1
The Swifts started the game cautiously in order to avoid giving away an early goal and proceeded to control the first part of the game. Jack Pritchard won an early corner from which the Swifts were unlucky to score and Dan Sewell went just wide after a scramble in the Westfield’s penalty area. However, Westfield’s goal-keeper was in fine form and saved her team on a number of occasions. Swifts continued to press forward in a patient and controlled manner. Callum Hodges came on to give the first half some extra impetus – but the goal would just not come and both teams were relieved when the half time interval finely arrived. Ledbury began the second half in much the way as the first with Kieron Danter starting to dominate the centre of the pitch and with Sewell and Daniel O’Neill starting to make some strong runs down the wings. Eventually the Swifts pressure began to tell and Sewell opened the scoring with a close range shot only to be upstaged moments later by a long range strike from O’Neill which flew into the top left corner of the net. The positive score-line enabled Robert Phillips, Ben Butler and James Charlesworth to move forward from time to time and all went close with some great shots. Then another long goal kick from Jonathon Gooch evaded the Westfield’s defence and was collected by Daniel Sewell who guided the ball into the net for his second goal of the game. Inevitably the Swifts started to relax a little and Westfield made some of their best attacking moves of the game. One of these attacking moves resulted in a firm clearance from defence which struck an advancing Colts player and the ball flew into the net to give the visitors a much-needed boost. With only a few minutes to go the Swifts made some more tactical changes to preserve their 3-1 lead and were rewarded by another fine goal from Sewell


Sun Sep 04 - Meole Brace Soccer Sevens Invitational
Swifts runners-up at Shrewsbury Tournament
The Under 10’s began their tournament with an opening match against Oswestry Boys & Girls. A tough match was anticipated, however, the Swifts started the game in a confident mood and their strong running with the ball quickly put Oswestry on the back foot. It was not long before a determined run down the right by Dan Sewell led to Oswestry conceding a free kick about 15 yards from goal. Jack Pritchard stepped forward to take the free kick and hit a rasping drive into the far corner of the net. This was quickly followed by another strong free kick from Kieron Danter that the Oswestry goal-keeper struggled to control and the ball was judged to have crossed the line. On the occasions that Oswestry managed to mount an attack some excellent handling by Jonathon Gooch ensured a comfortable 2-0 win for the Swifts. Ledbury's second match was against Meole Brace Colts and they were again quickly able to dominate play through their greater commitment and experience and it was not long before Daniel Sewell opened his scoring account with a fine lob. This in turn was quickly followed by a cross from the right into the Meole goal-mouth which Jack Pritchard was deflty able to control with his right foot and stab home with his left. The Swifts were keen to pile on the pressure and it was not long before Rob Philips went on a strong run down the left and struck a great shot only to see it crash against the woodwork. Normal service was quickly resumed, however, when Callum Hodges was able to find the back of the net with a deft volley that enabled the Swifts to end the match 3-0 winners.The Swifts third match was again MBJ Lions. The Swifts took an early lead after Jack Pritchard collected the ball on the left, beat one player and ran forward to strike an excellent shot into the left hand side of the goal. Not to be undone the Swifts Captain, Kieron Danter, was then able to go on a mazy run which was topped of with a fine strike on goal to give the Swifts a 2-0 lead. This in turn was followed by a goal mouth scramble which created the opportunity for Callum Hodges to force the ball home and for the Swifts to run out 3-0 winners. The final 2 mini league matches against Shrewsbury Junior Colts and the Up & Comers proved to be very difficult matches. Despite some excellent midfield play from James Charlesworth, some fine defending from Ben Butler and Rob Phillips and a finger tip save from Jonathon Gooch, the Swifts were unlucky to go down 1-0 to Shrewsbury Junior Colts and 2-0 to Up & Comers. Despite this reversal in form the Swifts still qualified for the Plate Final where they came up against Baschurch Juniors. The Plate Final proved to be an excellent game with lots of end to end football, however, Baschurch eventually won through when an across goal shot crept in at the far post. Although the day did not end quite as well as it started, Ledbury Swifts would like to thank Meole Brace Juniors and all the teams that took part for an excellent tournament.


Sat Aug 27 - Pre-season Friendly
Ledbury Swifts - 4 (Sewell, Pritchard, Danter, Hodges)
Mitcheldean - 3
Under the new captaincy of Kieron Danter, the Swifts started their new season in much the same way that they finished the last with some bright and enterprising play. However, Mitcheldean's goalkeeper was in good form and was particularly fast off his goal line to thwart several goal-scoring chances that were created by the Swifts. Inevitably, despite creating a lot of initial pressure the Swifts fell behind when Mitcheldean poked the ball home after a goal-mouth scramble. Swifts reacted well to falling a goal behind and with Kieron urging the team on, Daniel Sewell responded with a characteristic run down the left which he completed with a firm shot to bring the Swifts back on level terms. This was quickly followed by a fine long-range shot from the right from Kieron Danter that was helped over the line by Jack Pritchard. The remainder of the first half was a finely contested affair and as legs began to tire in the warm conditions, the Swifts were able to give Callum Hodges his debut as he came onto the left side of midfield for the Swifts. In the second half the Swifts began by passing the ball very well and it was not long before a good cross into the box was met with a close range shot from Pritchard to give the Swifts a 3-1 cushion. Mitcheldean responded very positively to falling further behind and Robert Phillips and James Charlesworth were called upon to do some sterling work in defence for the Swifts and Jonathon Gooch exhibited some fine handling in the Swifts goal. In the end, however, the enthusiastic pressure from Mitcheldean resulted in another goal mouth scramble and ultimately a second goal for them. The game then started to open up as legs began to tire. Several chances were created at both ends and it was with relief that Hodges opened his scoring record for the Swifts with a close range tap in. Then only seconds later, Mitcheldean responded with a quick counter attack and goal to leave the Swifts hanging on for a 4-3 win.