Freddie Woodman salutes defence for yet another Swansea City shut out

8th February
First team
Freddie Woodman

Freddie Woodman paid tribute to Swansea City’s men at the back for fronting up to another stern Championship test and delivering a 15th clean sheet of the season.

The Swans made it 12 games unbeaten at the Liberty as goals from Andre Ayew and Conor Hourihane saw off leaders Norwich City on Friday night.

Steve Cooper’s side moved to within two points of the Canaries thanks to their 15th win of the league campaign.

Along with Ayew’s close-range finish and Hourihane’s third goal in as many games, the Swans’ efforts were backed up by a solid defensive display.

And Woodman, who made a fine first-half stop to deny Canaries captain Grant Hanley, saluted the Swans’ backline for yet another shut out.

Freddie Woodman

“It was a great night for us. I'm really happy to keep a clean sheet - as a defensive unit, it's always nice. I think everyone played their part,” said Woodman.

“It's testament to the lads in front of me. On Friday night, I only made one save. The lads in front of me are working their socks off.

“I'm really happy to get 15 clean sheets on a personal note, but I can't stress enough that it's not just a goalkeeper's thing. It's really important to help us move forward.”

Freddie Woodman

The Swans’ latest win also saw Hourihane become the first player at the club to score consecutive goals in his first three league games since Michu’s achieved that same feat in 2012.

The Republic of Ireland  international has proved a big hit since joining on loan from Aston Villa. And Woodman noted the huge impact the 30-year-old has made in his short time in SA1.

Conor Hourihane

“He's made a massive impact on the field, but he's also made a massive impact off the field as well,” added Woodman. “If you ask any of the lads, he's a top bloke, a really nice fella and he's settled right in.

“I've managed to have a few chats with him and try to pick his brains because he's such an experienced player, plays internationally and you can see how much quality he's got. 

“He's got tremendous quality and I had the best view in the house of the goal. He struck it and I knew straight away that it was in. He's a brilliant guy and I'm really happy that he's helping us towards our goal.”