Swifts pressing ahead
Jeanfield Swifts manager Ross Gunnion was pleased to see training ground work pay off in Saturday afternoon’s victory against Lowland League side Stirling University.
The Riverside boss watched his men run out 3-1 winners thanks to first half goals from Connor McLaren, Gary Fergus and Fraser Smith.
Gunnion was particularly happy with the team pressing on show at the university and feels his squad is shaping up nicely for the East of Scotland League’s Premier Division.
“It was a step up in quality in terms of opposition and is similar to what we’ll be facing at the top end of our league,” Gunnion said.
“So to come away with a comfortable victory against an established Lowland League side was pleasing.
“We started the game on the front foot and our team pressing was excellent. It’s something we’ve been working on in training so to see the rewards is pleasing.
“I think we’re getting closer to match fitness but the long lay off means it may take a few games to hit top form.
“However the players have worked incredibly hard during pre-season so now we just need to get the competitive games under way.”
The first fixture of the league season is pencilled in for Saturday, October 10, with Swifts heading for Blackburn United.
COVID-19 restrictions have been in place for friendly matches, including being unable to use changing facilities or showers after the game.
Pouring rain in Saturday’s game at Stirling meant a damp trip back to Perth for the Swifts squad.
“Unfortunately it won’t be in front of fans,”Gunnion said of this weekend’s season opener.
“And the lack of changing facilities/ showers makes things a bit awkward, but the boys have reacted brilliantly to the challenges thrown at them so far.
“We’ll just have to continue to deal with whatever situations are thrown at us over the next few months.
“If we can do that off the field I’ve complete confidence in their ability to perform on the field.”
Kinnoull were in friendly action against Lochee United and conceded in the 88th minute to lose out 3-2. Dale Smart and Shaun Simpson were again on the scoresheet.
Fellow East of Scotland League Conference B side Luncarty did not have a game.