Character key to Swansea City Ladies' success
Ian Owen hailed his side’s character after Swansea City Ladies continued their perfect start to the season with a last-gasp winner against Abergavenny.
Owen’s side looked set for a 1-0 victory in the Welsh Women’s Premier League Cup on Sunday, only for the hosts to net an 89th-minute equaliser.
But sub Choe Chivers struck a minute later to ensure the Swans made it two wins from two in the tournament.
The Swans are also in top form in the league, having won all four matches so far.
And Owen felt the reaction to the late Abergavenny leveller shows the attitude and desire his squad possesses.
“We were disappointed to concede such a soft goal but I was delighted with the instant response by the players,” said Owen.
“There is a real determination amongst the squad this year to do well. They found another gear in the additional minutes and that typified the players’ attitudes.
“Our passing and movement was fantastic with a high tempo throughout the game, but the opposition goalkeeper had a great game keeping us out in the first half. But we did what was needed after the break.
“I am really pleased with our form - winning all our in the WPWL and cup games, along with playing some great football, makes it a fantastic start.”
Chivers’ late strike was her first for the club since joining the Swans in the summer.
And Owen has been delighted with the impact the Wales international has made, despite Chivers waiting to make her first start after continuing her recovery from an ACL injury.
“Chloe is getting stronger week by week,” said Owen. “I was really pleased with her all-round contribution on Sunday. She is a quality player and she went close a couple of times to scoring so she deserved her goal.
“We are taking things slowly with her because we won’t rush in her any way as she had a injury which sidelined her for some time.
“But the impact she’s already making is very pleasing.”
The Swans face Abergavenny again this Sunday in the league. Kick-off at Llandarcy is at 2pm, with free admission.
