Impressive Swifts hit Phoenix for six

North West Junior League - Division One

Sion Swifts....6

Phoenix Athletic....2

SION Swifts returned to winning ways in impressive fashion on Saturday with a thoroughly deserved victory over Phoenix Athletic at the Melvin Arena.

Swifts started on the front foot and were unlucky not to take the lead inside the opening minute.

Niall Coyle skipped past two defenders but was denied by a superb save from the Phoenix goalkeeper.

The early pressure paid off on 12 minutes when Mark Roarty broke the deadlock with a fine, composed finish.

Roarty doubled his tally on 25 minutes, calmly slotting home to put Swifts firmly in control.

Phoenix responded to reduce the deficit to 2-1, but Swifts quickly restored their two-goal advantage. Robbie Conway found the net to make it 3-1 heading into half-time.

The second half began much like the first. David Conway produced a moment of quality, ghosting past three defenders before coolly slotting home the fourth.

Robbie Conway added his second - and Swifts’ fifth - with another superbly taken goal.

The sixth arrived following a thunderous strike from young Cahir Lindsay that crashed off the crossbar, with Ciaran Slevin reacting quickest to fire home.

It was a richly deserved goal for Slevin, who had already contributed three assists in an outstanding display.

A club spokesperson said: "It was a strong all-round team performance, with Conail McCormack earning Man of the Match honours.

“It was also great to see young Cahir Lindsay shine on his North West debut.

"A special mention goes to the referee, whose performance was complimented by both sides for allowing the game to flow and handling the game well."

Swifts are back in action at home this weekend when they entertain Burnfoot United at the Glebe pitch. Kick-off is 2pm.