5 things we learnt: Swindon v Macclesfield

The dust has finally settled on Swindon’s dramatic added-time victory over Macclesfield Town at the County Ground yesterday. TotalSport Swindon’s Ryan Walker gives his analysis on five things we learnt following the season opening encounter.

1. Creativity is key

Swindon started their season in fantastic style by earning a thrilling opening day win. But despite victory, it was the style with which Swindon played that impressed fans the most. Quick passing, taking players on, and pressing high up the pitch were all factors of Town’s game yesterday, and their ability to create multiple chances throughout made for an attractive spectacle. 

They have the players to play creative attacking football and now Swindon must continue with this for the remainder of the season.

2. Martin Smith is the midfielder Swindon needed

Making his debut yesterday after signing on a free transfer from Coleraine, Martin Smith displayed all the elements that Phil Brown wants from his central midfielder. Playing in the centre of a three man midfield, Smith was impressive in both his defensive and attacking duties. 

Regularly protected the defence to stop any dangerous attacks whilst also putting on a passing master class as he sprayed the ball across the pitch with confidence and accuracy. A great performance from the new signing.

3. Doughty can live up to expectations

The return of Michael Doughty to the County Ground on a permanent transfer brought with it excitement, optimism, but also a lot of pressure on the star signing. Yesterday however the midfielders hat trick to win Swindon the match was an example of how good a player Doughty will be for STFC this season.

Not only scoring goals, Doughty was a constant nuisance to the opposition defence and was regularly at the start and finish of most of Town’s attacks. Doughty will need to continue to perform but this was a great start to the season for Swindon’s number three.

4. Swindon’s defence is still shaky

Victory usually hides all the negatives of a performance, but Phil Brown will be aware of the defensive frailties that his side displayed. Two goals conceded and it could have been more if Macclesfield had been able to perfect their finishing. 

Olly Lancashire still looks prone to mistakes and his backline was at times caught sleeping which led to the games opening goal. Challenge for places in defence is needed, as against a better team Swindon won’t be so lucky.

5. Town’s pace will cause problems for opposition

A 4-3-3 formation can often see a team stifled for options when going forward. However the pace of Swindon’s attackers meant for devastating attacks from the Robins. 

Too often the criticism of Swindon has been that players aren’t willing to shoot, however a front three of Anderson, McGlashan, and Elijah Adebayo were constantly finding shooting opportunities throughout the match. Swindon’s lightning pace will continue to cause problems for their opposition, and it was great to see so much energy in this Town side.