Saffron Walden Town Vs Swaffham Town FC

Swaffham began their 2016/2017 campaign with a tough trip to Catons Lane, home of Saffron Walden Town, the Bloods. Always a difficult venue to play at, generally well attended and opposition that have had a successful pre-season.

Swaffham started well, playing the better football, Walden's tactics more kick and run. The Pedlar defence under the watchful eye of new centre back, Danny Tindall held strong and denied the Bloods an opening.

The best chance for Swaffham came thirty minutes in, Mikey Thompson laying off to Jake Platten, unable to get his knee over the ball, his effort going over the bar. Honours even at half time, Walden having more chances on target but confident keeping by Aaron Watson between the sticks.

On the stroke of the hour, Dwayne Hockton was replaced by Toby Millward, Hockton twisting his knee. The deadlock finally broken with 74 minutes gone, the Pedlars caught on the counter, Watson blocking the initial shot but unable to hold onto the ball, the deflected ball falling into the path of the centre forward.

Six minutes later Alex Vincent getting the most out of the Walden keeper, his shot from 25 yards forcing a diving save at a comfortable height.

The Bloods further denied by the cross bar and by several fine saves by man of the match Watson. The Bloods ready to celebrate a victory had their faces turned to disappointment as in the final minute of added time, Thompson crossed from the left hand side of goal, Platten to head home from 12 yards, top right hand corner of the net. The visiting support went ballistic, the stunned home supporters shocked into silence !

A deserved point for the Pedlars and a good first performance ahead of next Saturday's FA Cup tie.

The Pedlars travelling to Holbeach Town hoping to repeat their Preliminary Round victory from three seasons ago. The Team and Committee will be travelling by coach from Shoemakers lane, there are some places left. Please contact Secretary Ray Ewart (07990 526744) if you would like to travel to see the game. Coach fee £5.00, admission to the ground will be an additional cost.

Kind regards,

STFC Committee