Stoppage Time Heartbreak

Blandford United 2 Swans 1

Swans suffered stoppage time heartbreak conceding in the 90th minute and a penalty in stoppage time against table topping Blandford United in The Dorset Premier League.

Swans soaked up early pressure then hit the Royals with a brilliant solo goal on 9 minutes from the dangerous Cody Moore who bent a superb shot in the top corner. The league leaders enjoyed the lion's share of play but were unable to break down the determined Swans defence which was superbly marshalled by the outstanding Brad Smith who sustained a head injury and skipper Taylor Hibbs who produced some brilliant saves. H.T. 0-1.

The second half continued in the same vein with Blandford creating chances from which Ford hit the bar with a great header but Hibbs again was the saviour with a string of great saves. Swans nearly doubled their lead catching Blandford on the break but Moore just delayed his shot and the chance had gone. Although the Royals were pressing for the equaliser the determined Swans held on and just as a shock result looked possible the drama unfolded when Mark Ford received a long throw in the box and swivelled and hit both posts with his shot and found the net. The drama and Swans heartbreak was complete in the 95th minute when the referee awarded the hosts a penalty which Steve Smith coolly dispatched.

Swans bleak afternoon was complete when at the final whistle their skipper and keeper Taylor Hibbs suffered a serious knee injury. Everyone at the club wishes Taylor a speedy recovery.

Swans Star Man - Taylor Hibbs
Special Mention - Brad Smith

Team: T.Hibbs, J.Hughes, B.Smith, Olly Smith, J.Streams, D.Keates (D.Cavendish 75), C.Lee, C.Dyke, Ocean Smith (B.Hughes 80), D.Reeks, C.Moore (M.White 83).
Subs: D.Cavendish, M.White, B.Hughes.