Longlevens 1 Slimbridge 2

A much improved performance from the one at Bradford Town a week earlier resulted in a narrow 2-1 win for the Swans at Hellenic Premier side Longlevens. Included in manager Leon Sterling’s starting eleven were recent signings Jack Oldham and John Cant.

Archie Haskayne and Ed Major also made second half appearances along with trialists Rory Thompson and Jamie Walker.

Sterling gave 45 minutes each to goalkeepers James Sharman and Pete Davies.

Jack Oldham nearly got off to a perfect start but his 5th minute goal bound shot was cleared off the line for a corner.

Former Swans player Brad Martin gave the hosts the lead on 30 minutes, converting a cross from the left but Slimbridge should really have been three goals to the good by then after good chances for Rich Thwaite, Liam Orchard and John Can't were all missed.

Five minutes into the second half and Slimbridge were level.

Sean Lawson, who was looking very lively, fired home from 15 yards after a lapse in the home defence.

A Free kick on the edge of the box by Adam Mace was cleared off the line as Slimbridge started to control things.

On 65 minutes the Swans deservedly went in front when Jamie Walker delivered an excellent cross from the right for Ed Major to poke home from close in.

Martin should have scored his second goal of the game late on but fired wide with the goal at his mercy as the Swans held on for a morale boosting victory.

The Southern League fixtures have been released which sees the Swans open their campaign with a home game versus Winchester City on Aug 6th followed by trips to local sides Bishops Cleeve and Yate Town.

The much anticipated games with Hereford will take place on Tues Sept 27th at Edgar Street with the return at Thornhill Park on Sat 4th February.

Steve Claridge's Salisbury will visit Slimbridge on Sat Oct 15th.