Ben Middlemas scored a spectacular goal to help Swindon Town secure a 3-1 victory over Port Vale on Tuesday night. The former Sunderland midfielder's left-footed volley broke a 1-1 deadlock and was hailed as a 'wonderstrike' by the opposition manager, a key moment in a vital three points for Ian Holloway's side.
According to a report in the Swindon Advertiser, the match was level after 70 minutes when Middlemas produced his moment of magic. Jack Thomson's corner was punched clear by Port Vale goalkeeper Jackson Smith, landing on the edge of the penalty area. Middlemas raced onto the loose ball and struck it first time with his weaker left foot, sending it flying into the top corner.
What did Ben Middlemas say about the goal?
Ben Middlemas described the strike as the best goal of his career. "That was definitely the best goal that I have ever scored. 100 per cent," he said. The midfielder explained his positioning in the build-up, revealing a quick decision that led to the opportunity. "I was in the box for the first corner, but then I thought that Skip [Ollie Clarke] was better off getting in the box, and then I would just be on the edge."
He added that his instinct was to hit the ball cleanly when it arrived, believing deflections can often lead to goals. The execution, however, was perfect, and the ball flew precisely where he aimed it.
How did Swindon Town respond to their previous defeat?
The win represented a strong turnaround in performance for Swindon Town after a disappointing 3-0 loss to Oldham Athletic last Saturday. Manager Ian Holloway addressed the squad multiple times following that defeat, speaking to players on the bus, in the changing room, and again in training on Monday. The response was evident against Port Vale, with the team showing more aggression and intent.
Players like Aaron Drinan, noted for his speed and pressing from the front, helped set the tone. The team looked most effective when playing on the front foot and pressing high, a tactical approach that yielded a positive result. The victory also came after a bizarre incident where an Ollie Palmer goal was ruled out because a second ball was on the pitch during a throw-in.
Where does this result leave Swindon Town in League Two?
The three points have a significant impact on Swindon Town's early season standing. As of September 3, 2026, the club sits 9th in the League Two table. They have 7 points from their first four matches, with a record of two wins, one draw, and one loss. Their recent form reads WLWD. You can track their progress on the official standings page.
The team has scored 5 goals and conceded 5, giving them a neutral goal difference. More importantly, the win keeps them within touching distance of the top, now just 2 points behind league leaders Bristol Rovers. This positive start provides a solid platform as they look ahead to their next fixtures, which you can view on the club's fixtures schedule.
What is the broader context for the squad?
The victory underscores the importance of contributions from across the squad. While Middlemas provided the standout moment, the collective response after a poor result was vital. The performance demonstrated the qualities manager Ian Holloway wants to see consistently. The team's ability to bounce back quickly will be tested again in the coming weeks.
For detailed statistics on player performances and team metrics, fans can visit the club's dedicated stats section. The focus now shifts to maintaining this level, with the squad aiming to build momentum from a result sparked by a moment of individual brilliance. Ben Middlemas, a 24-year-old midfielder, now has a memorable highlight for his Swindon Town career reel.
