Swindon Supermarine completed their warm-up programme with a 2-1 victory over Swindon Town Under-18s at the Imagine Cruising Stadium, the Southern League side taking control early through a brace by Joe Shepherd.
Match summary
Marine dominated large spells of the contest, making the brighter start and converting two promising openings. Their first goal arrived inside the opening quarter-hour when a free-kick into the box was only partially cleared and Shepherd calmly slotted a low finish from around 15 metres to put the visitors ahead.
The second came after 21 minutes when Shepherd intercepted an attempted goalkeeper pass, stayed composed and rolled the ball into an unguarded net to double Marine’s advantage.
| Team | Score | Scorers |
|---|---|---|
| Swindon Supermarine | 2 | Joe Shepherd (2) |
| Swindon Town U18s | 1 | Ash Glynn (90+) |
Second-half and late response
Although Marine remained the greater attacking threat for much of the tie, Swindon Town’s young side showed resilience. An assured display by goalkeeper Charlie Summers kept the scoreline close; he pulled off several smart stops and was a key reason Town remained competitive.
The hosts fashioned chances in the second period. A fierce effort from Lucas Wilkinson struck the crossbar, while Gabriel Reivers, Dayo Sonoiki and Jamie Edge all combined to create openings. Substitute Cheldon Valere also tested Summers after coming on.
Town were ultimately rewarded for their persistence two minutes from time when Ash Glynn capitalised on a misdirected defensive pass to slot home into an empty net, sealing a late consolation and a spirited finish.
Players to note
- Joe Shepherd — decisive with two clinical finishes.
- Charlie Summers — several important saves that kept Town in the contest.
- Teddy Moulder — composed at centre-back for Town’s youngsters.
- Briel Da Costa — caused problems down the flank with his pace.
Manager Bobby Wilkinson will have taken encouragement from Marine’s organisation and attacking verve ahead of competitive fixtures, while Swindon Town’s academy will also have noted the positive character shown by their younger players when required to respond under pressure.
For supporters tracking pre-season form, the match offered a clear indicator that both teams possess promising individuals: a reminder that progress and fine margins from these fixtures can influence selection and confidence as the new season approaches.
