Cameron Toshack proud of U23s' growth and strides

10th December
Cameron Toshack 16x9

Swansea City Under-23s coach Cameron Toshack has revealed his pride in seeing how much the development side have grown in a short space of time following their dramatic victory over Norwich City on Monday.

The young Swans earned their first win in seven games as Kees de Boer’s stoppage-time free-kick secured all three points in the Premier League 2 Division Two clash.

The development side made a bright start at Landore – taking a 14th-minute lead through Ali Al-Hamadi’s first goal at this level – and were unlucky not to increase their advantage following a terrific first-half performance.

However, they were pegged back by Akin Famewo’s equaliser 12 minutes after the break and had to endure some nervy moments in the second half as the visitors looked to turn the contest on its head.

Nevertheless, the Swans – whose matchday squad comprised 14 teenagers – stuck in there and snatched all three points in the dying moment when De Boer whipped a delicious free-kick into the top corner.

Toshack was delighted to see his team get back to winning ways, but admits there is still room for improvement for his young squad.

“It’s great to get a win under our belts, especially now we’re coming towards the end of the year,” the under-23s coach said.

“I was so proud with the way the boys performed in the first half and seeing how much they’ve already grown in such a short space of time.

“In the first half, we played like a Swansea City team. The willingness to get on the ball, pass it around, create opportunities and get on the front foot was all really pleasing. 

“On another day, we could have scored three or four goals but at half-time, we were delighted with the way the players had applied themselves to the game plan. 

“In the second half, it was quite clear to see that that didn’t happen. Part of these young guys’ development is to learn that teams aren’t just going to sit back and let you do what you’re good at. Once they recognise your strengths, they’ll try everything to disturb your rhythm.

“In fairness, I thought Norwich were much better in the second half. They provided us with a real challenge and we struggled to cope physically in certain moments of the game.

“However, we kept going and in the last moments of the game, Kees sticks a terrific free-kick into the top corner.

“Overall, there were lots of positives but, as with all games of football, there are two or three things we can take away to improve.”