x

Mutual Defensive Appreciation

It was all mutual appreciation from the Swans defenders after the 0-0 draw against Everton saw them complete their fifth clean sheet of the Premier League season to date.

Five clean sheets says its own stat but at the same time only Southampton (5) have conceded less goals in the division this season than the Swans who are continuing to defy the pre-season predictions and find themselves in 6th place in the division,.

Not bad for a team that was written off by so many after a season where they lost three of the five first choice back five players last season. The departures of Michel Vorm and Ben Davies to Spurs and Chico Flores also to pastures new led many to think that we would struggle this time around but the opposite is definitely the case at this point in time.

Lucasz Fabianski has added an extra steel to the defence that was so sadly missing last season and he has shown how a keeper should command his area when his team is under pressure. As a fan there is extra confidence in me that the keeper will pick up anything loose around the area and that confidence is spreading through the back five who look more solid than ever.

And they were certainly complimentary of each other after yesterday's game with captain Ashley Williams heaping praise on his central defensive partner, Federico Fernandez.

Fernandez was only playing after his red card against Liverpool in midweek was overturned but the record defensive signing put in another majestic performance to help keep Everton at bay and ensure that the Swans returned to South Wales with a point for their efforts.

"It was his best game for us so far,” beamed Williams. "He read everything against Everton, he was a tower of strength and he was excellent in the air too.

"I’m very comfortable playing next to him. He’s settled in well since coming to us from Napoli, and I think he has a very good understanding of what to expect in the Premier League, as well as what is expected of him.”

"For a defender, I think that was one of our best performances of the season. The way everyone stood together and dug in was very pleasing.

"Everton asked a lot of questions — they are a good team — but we kept them out.
"At ten men my message was simple: don’t panic. We’ve been at this level and in this situation a few times, so we know what we have to do.

"We spoke a lot in pre-season about tightening up defensively. I think it’s evident in our performances and clean sheets that we have done that.

"We are putting our bodies on the line to block shots and crosses. As a defender that is your job, and everyone deserves a pat on the back for the performance against Everton.”

What to read next:

Brave Swans in memorable game at Carrow Road
It was a pulsating game to watch and very much one of my favourite away games of the season. The Swans looked an entirely different side to that we saw at Middlesbrough when it is clear a catalyst for commitment was agreed behind the scenes at Swansea City. To a man every player grafted and wore the shirt with pride. To see the players really acknowledge the Swans support at Carrow Road this afternoon was emotional.
Norwich City 2 - 2 Swansea City - Player Ratings and Reports
If you saw the match, please give us your player ratings and a mini match report.
TEAM NEWS : Norwich City v Swansea City
The Swans are on the Norfolk Broads, punting and boating their way to the end of the season. Hopefully the city of Norwich is obliging.
Swansea City : Jack Army travel over 1,000 miles for two games in succession
Swansea City have set out on their second long distance away trip in two weekends, this time to Norwich for todays clash between the Swans and Canaries (3pm) Over the last ten meetings between the clubs Swansea City have won five times, Norwich the same.
Cardiff City fan sends tragedy tweet directed at dead Swansea City fan Terry Coles
As a result of the news reported by Sky on Wednesday that five military horses had escaped and ran through central London, a Cardiff City follower thought it wise to relate the incident to the death of Swansea fan Terry Coles, 42.
Swansea reject Cullen contract and trigger one year option
Liam Cullen has had his request for a new contract dismissed by Swansea City after discussions broke down last week. The lowest paid ‘senior’ player at the club ( he is twenty five) asked for a better contract increasing his £3,500 a week to around £7,000 a week over three years.
Gwyn’s Eye View : Norwich City v Swansea City ‘The officials’
Thanks to Gwyn we have a thorough assessment of this weeks officials who will take charge at Carrow Road this Saturday at 3pm. Norwich City will be keen to get the points to guarantee their play off slot, and Saturday is their first go.
Sam Parker hasn’t turned down a new deal, he is willing to negotiate
He was a revelation for the Swans for the few games he played this season, and now it emerges Sam Parker has ‘turned down’ a new Swansea City contract. News is thin on the ground, and some of it just incorrect as he looks to involve his representatives in some further negotiations. Plus his current contract runs for two more years.
Swansea City : The vision is clearer, so Jamal Lowe ?
There were some worrying moments for the Swans yesterday, on three occasions mistakes from playing out from the back nearly saw the home side score. And is there now a case for Jamal Lowe to be offered a contract at Swansea ?
Leighton James : His own football revolution
With the passing of Leighton James yesterday we have a Saturday night treat for football fans, Swans fans and Wales followers the world over. Who can recall the magic boots imposing themselves on clubs throughout Wales and England ?