STOURPORT Swifts' return to action following their weekend postponement was marked by a triple strike from Adrian Cooper, giving his team a 3-1 Midland Alliance home win over Stratford.

Experienced midfielder Cooper pounced for important goals to keep Swifts going in their race for promotion on Monday night.

They had been frustrated on Saturday when yet another postponement, for a visit to Bloxwich, left them with a free day.

But the midweek result left Swifts third before going on their travels to struggling Pelsall last night.

Cooper's first goal came after 18 minutes from a cross by lively forward Paul Moore.

Stratford responded with pressure leading to a finger-tip reaction save from home keeper Rob Clarke.

But a defensive error at the other end put Swifts two-up as Lee Booth set up Cooper for an easy finish at the far post.

A free-kick allowed Stafford to hit back on 76 minutes through Geoff Amos who slotted in at the far post.

However, Cooper completed his hat-trick two minutes later with a measured finish which saw the Stratford stopper spill the ball over the goal-line.

Booth threatened to break Cooper's scoring monopoly late on but squandered his chance to make it four with just the keeper to beat.

Swifts 0 Bridgnorth 1

Rod Brown's men must make up a deficit in the League Cup after defeat to rivals Bridgnorth last Thursday in the semi-final first leg.

It was a disappointing display considering recent performances with keeper Clarke performing well in the first half to keep the visitors at bay.

Former Swifts' striker Ian Perry clinched an important goal for the Shropshire side with a well-taken volley at the near post seven minutes from time.

Swifts took the opportunity to field a few fringe players, including Kidderminster Harriers teenager Tim Jackson at left-back and Richard Taylor in midfield.

Fixture, Saturday: Oadby v Stourport (League, 3pm). Tuesday: Wednesfield v Swifts (League, 7.45pm).