Swifts retain their Super League spot
Gunnion’s relief after victory against Musselburgh
Jeanfield Swifts manager Ross Gunnion has guided the club to Super League safety.
And the Riverside boss admits there was a strong sense of relief following Saturday afternoon’s 2-1 victory against Musselburgh.
Second half goals from Robbie Holden and Daniel Kelly were enough to secure the Perth side’s place in the East Region’s top division.
Gunnion said: “I think the overriding feeling was relief. I’d be lying if I said otherwise, but when I reflect on the past three months I think it’s thoroughly deserved.
“We’ve only been beaten once in the last eight league games, which is a fantastic standard to set at this level.
“The hard work the players have done over the course of the season has been rewarded.
“We knew at the start of the season we were outsiders to stay in the league, but the players have learned quickly and adapted to the standard.
“Even with some tough defeats we didn’t lose focus and that’s the most pleasing aspect.
“I believe there is a huge amount of potential in the current squad and we can build even further on this season.
“When you look at our results since January we have the potential to be
Jubilant Jeanfield players celebrate Daniel Kelly’s goal. a top half Super League side on the form we’ve shown. That’s now our next target.
“We’ll no doubt start next season as underdogs again but, to be honest, I’m beginning to enjoy proving people wrong and showing that a team from Perth can compete at this level for the first time.”
Swifts nudged away from the drop zone with two games left to play and travel to take on Bonnyrigg tomorrow evening.
Gunnion insists his players will not be downing tools just yet.
“In terms of finishing of this season, we still have a lot to play for,” he said.
“Bonnyrigg away in the league on Wednesday is a logistical headache but we just have to get on with it.
“We’ll go there with a few injury doubts and suspensions so we’ll look to our successful Under-19’s side to provide some cover.”
LUNCARTY manager Jon Kelly believes the club’s first season back on the junior football scene has been a success.
The Bleachers returned from a year in abeyance to nail down a seventh place finish in the North Division.
That position was secured with a 3-2 win against Newburgh at the weekend with Darren Kelly netting twice before Reg McLaren scored the winner.
Kelly said: “We started the game very well and should have been out of sight by half time, but slackness came into play and all of a sudden it was 2-1 just before half time.
“This gave Newburgh a lift and to their credit they got an equaliser just after the break.
“I have to give credit to our players too as they rolled up the sleeves and started to dominate the game again, and it was not long before the winner came from Reg McLaren.
“We were well worth our win and it was a great way to finish our season.
“I think the lads should be proud of themselves, especially as this team was only put together at the start of the season.
“We have competed with every team in our league and with another year together I think we will only get better.
“Add in the good Scottish Cup run and I would definitely say the first season back in the junior league has been enjoyable and a success.”
Wednesday fixtures: Super League - Bonnyrigg Rose v Jeanfield Swifts (7.15pm). North Division Dundee North End v Scone Thistle (7.15pm).