Gary Richards Swansea City Newcastle
15th January
Coach Gary Richards insists Premier League 2 leaders Swansea City Under-23s must refocus on their title ambitions ahead of Monday's match against Newcastle United at Landore (7pm).
The Magpies are second in the division 2 table with five wins from an unbeaten run of six games, but they sit ten points adrift of Swansea, who go into the match on the back of eight consecutive wins following their 2-1 Checkatrade Trophy win over Wolves on Tuesday.
Newcastle were the last side to defeat the young Swans in the league - a 3-2 win at Whitley Park in September, and Richards knows the U23s will have to be at their best if they are to continue their unbeaten form.
"We have to maintain our standards and make sure our attitude is right going into this game," he said. "Both teams are in good form at the minute - neither will want that to end.
"Tuesday's win over Wolves was a fantastic result but our first half performance was very poor.
"I want us to refocus and maintain our performance levels over 90 minutes, not just 45. Therefore we have to start well on Monday. If we don't they will punish us.
"Newcastle are on a great run at the minute and will be looking to beat us to ensure that continues, so we need to be at our best."
The young Swans will be boosted by the return of striker Botti Biabi, who could feature after missing the Wolves clash due to illness.
Entry to the game is FREE, but fans are reminded there is no parking at the Landore facility.
