Colchester result is vital, says Harries

24th January

Cian Harries admits Swansea City Under-23s must treat Thursday’s Premier League Cup tie away against Colchester United as a must win game.

A 2-0 defeat against Burnley on Monday left the young Swans six-points adrift of a Group D qualifying place going into tomorrow’s game against the U’s at Weston Homes Community Stadium (7pm).

The Swans ran out 5-1 winners when the sides met at Landore in December to kick-start the defence of their title, but Harries admits Monday’s defeat mean the side still have a lot to do to retain the cup.

“I think it is a must win game if we want to progress in this competition,” he said.

“We all want to defend the title that was won last season and play as many games as possible in the development football programme.

“A lot of the boys have spoken about how great it was to lift the cup last season and it is something we want to experience again.”

Harries has been ever present for the under-23s since his summer switch from Coventry City with over 20 appearances so far this campaign.

The defender has helped the young Swans to recent wins over Chelsea and Liverpool as the development side have built a five-game unbeaten league run.

“We have done very well in the league,” the centre-back continued.

“I think we have surprised a lot of teams with how well we are doing, so it was very disappointing to lose in the manner we did this week.

“It is easy to get motivated for the games against Chelsea and Liverpool, but we must make sure we transfer that form into these cup games and maintain our focus for every team we play.”

Swansea City Under-23s game against Colchester United at Weston Homes Community Stadium will be streamed live on swanseacity.com from 7pm.