Ian Owen delighted with victory in derby opener

Ian Owen was delighted with his Swansea City Ladies’ side as they kick-started their Welsh Premier Women’s League title defence with a 3-0 victory over Cardiff City.

The Swans went into the half-time break with a one-goal lead – courtesy of a Shaunna Jenkins strike - and later put the Bluebirds to the sword in the second half with further goals from Chloe Chivers and Stacey John-Davis.

The Ladies hadn’t played any competitive football since March, when they defeated Abergavenny.

And general manager Owen was beyond happy with how well the Swans played after the enforced break, particularly as they kept another clean sheet having conceded just a solitary league goal last term.

“I am really pleased. It had been a long time since we last played a competitive game so I am delighted,” said Owen.

“Unit by unit and collectively the team is disciplined and our defensive record just says it all.”

Victory was also an ideal start for new head coach Colin Staples, and Owen is confident the experienced addition will only help push the team to greater heights.

“Colin has fitted in nicely and he brings a wealth of experience with him,” added Owen.

“We haven’t changed our philosophy or principles, but Colin has fine-tuned and added to what we already had.”

The new season continues when the Swans welcome Port Talbot to Llandarcy for their opening home game on Sunday.

“It’s another local derby, we will reflect on the game and concentrate on our performance,” said Owen.