Clement: Union test a good exercise

Paul Clement felt the Swans’ opening game of their America tour against Philadelphia Union was a “good exercise.”

The Swans were held 2-2 by the MLS side at the Talen Energy Stadium on Saturday night.

Clement’s side had to overcome an early setback when Union were awarded a debatable sixth-minute penalty.

But goals from Kyle Bartley and Jordan Ayew gave the visitors a 2-1 lead at the break.

Ten changes were made for the second half, with Union taking advantage by levelling through former Arsenal trainee Jay Simpson.

And Clement felt there were plenty of positives – and things to work on – as he looked back on the performance.

“It’s another good exercise for us,” said Clement, whose side faced Barnet the night before flying out to America.

“We worked really hard during a double training session on Friday, and it showed because the players were a little leggy out there today.

“It’s another 45 minutes for all the players as we get into the middle of pre-season. So that’s a positive, along with avoiding any injuries.

“We didn’t get off to a very good start, but we gradually got going in the first half and started to play well and get the ball forward.

“It was probably a fair scoreline at half-time, but I wasn’t so pleased with the way we played in the second half. When you make ten changes it is never easy being the second half team.

“But we didn’t really create anything and when we did get into good areas we were wasteful.

“I thought Philadelphia Union deserved a draw. They looked physically better than us and it showed that they are in the middle of their season while we are just getting our pre-season going.

“Overall, it has been a positive evening.”