Swinnerton double leads Southam goal blitz

Saints, who had gone six matches without a league victory, could not have had a better start as Luke Swinnerton opened the scoring after just five minutes, lobbing keeper John Green for his first goal for the club.

The former Racing Club Warwick midfielder had an even better chance shortly after, but shot straight at Green and then saw another effort flash across the face of the goal.

It did not take long, however, for Saints to find the back of the net again as, in the 24th minute, Quentin Townsend headed in Jack Taylor’s left-wing corner.

Tunde Ajibade made it three after a good build-up and he should have got a fourth just before half-time, but could not keep his shot down.

Swinnerton scored at the second attempt after Green saved his initial effort to make it 4-0 after the interval and substitute Richard Robinson completed the scoring in the 79th minute.

Manager Luke Fogarty was understandably happy with the result. “We’ve been dominating teams of late, but not taking our chances,” he said. “Tonight it all came together and we got our reward.

“I was pleased for Luke Swinnerton, who has not had many chances since he joined us, but took his goals well.”

On Saturday, it was a day of so near, but yet so far, as Saints drew 1-1 with Dosthill Colts after leading for the bulk of the match.

It could have been different had two second-half penalty appeals for handball been upheld, but all Saints got for their troubles was a booking for James Hardie for taking his protest too far.

Saints took the lead in the eighth minute through Ajibade and went close to a second when Robinson’s cross-shot was tipped over the bar by keeper Paul Hathaway.

Townsend went close from a corner and then Ross Jackson fired wide when clean through.

Jackson missed another good chance in the 35th minute having been set up by a pinpoint cross from Robinson before former Saints striker Andy Millan volleyed over for the visitors.

Ajibade was denied a second by the keeper in the 66th minute, while Anderson failed to apply the finishing touch when put clean through.

A Jackson shot was deflected on to the post and Hardie had an effort cleared off the line before Dosthill equalised with five minutes remaining thanks to a Townsend own goal.

Tomorrow, Saints are at home to Racing Club (3pm), with both Jackson and Luke Church, who were rested on Tuesday night, likely to start.

On Tuesday, Saints are at home again when they entertain Bartley Green (7.45pm).