On this day: Swans stutter in survival fight

James Thomas's goal was not enough to save struggling Swansea City from a painful home defeat against Carlisle United on this day in 2003.

The Swans had endured a torrid season which began with Nick Cusack in charge before Brian Flynn was brought in to try to save the club from relegation to the Conference.

Flynn overhauled the playing squad, bringing a host of players who would make a major impact including Leon Britton, Alan Tate, Roberto Martinez and Lenny Johnrose.

But after Lee Jenkins's 71st-minute red card, goals from Craig Farell and Brendan McGill put Carlisle 2-0 up at the Vetch and Thomas's late effort was no consolation.

The defeat meant the Swans had managed no wins in five matches, but a priceless victory at Southend the following Tuesday kicked off a five-game unbeaten run.

Easter defeats to Leyton Orient and Exeter plunged the Swans right back into trouble, but they won their last two games of the season - against Rochdale and Hull - to stay up in dramatic fashion.