Even before the game started the Swans were on edge. Little Joel Dawes was in for his first game of the season and the buzz around the team was noticeable. Could this be the day the swans break through for their first win?
 
The first quarter was a tough affair with Ryan Gregory up against a quality ruckman.  The swans managed to win their fair share of the pill out of the middle and get the ball moving forward. Darren Roffey set the scene with some strong work at centre half forward and it was good to see Greg O’Hayon get some early touches.  At quarter time six points separated the teams and Guelph, who had expected an easy game, knew they were in for a real fight.
 
The second quarter mirrored that of the first. Both backlines provided solid rebound out of defence whilst the midfielders from the respective teams controlled the ball exceptionally well BUT neither side could really make a major impact on the scoreboard.   The backline was ably led by the ever improving Chris Lockhart who was captaining his second game of the season (in Steve Spurrell’s absence).  Despite the rain Joel, Darren, Nick and Yaser managed to keep the ball in the Swans forward line for a reasonable period of time and by half time once again a kick separated the two teams.
 
A quick break at half time saw the Swans attack the Gargoyles with some tough straight running football.  The most impressive aspect of this whole game was evident in the third quarter. Players were defensively accountable yet prepared to run off to support their teammates when they won the ball.  Players likes Rowdy, Jake and Yaser started to get plenty of the ball which allowed Little Joel Dawes plenty of shots at goals.  The backline held together despite some deep attacking plays by Guelph with Luke Walsh providing plenty of gallop and rebound from half back.
 
Three quarter time and little more than a goal separated the two teams. The cup was there for the taking. With some sage words by Steve Spurrell and Corey Bowen the Swans started the final quarter and seemed to lift all over the ground.  Most pleasing was players like Valti, Nick and Hammer providing plenty of leading options for the Swans defenders to aim at.  What let the Swans down was their inability to keep the run and support for the whole four quarters as the Gargoyles applied more pressure and the Swans midfield were unable to respond in kind.  In the end the Swans lost by two goals and with it the Canada Day Cup.  We hope this is the start of a long tradition against Guelph and look forward to inviting them back to Ottawa for season 2009.
 
Quick note: Fantastic to see Assistant Coach Corey Bowen down at the ground supporting the lads on the day. Corey made his first appearance since breaking his hip three weeks ago. His on field presence was certainly missed on the day.