Jerry Yates happy with clinical Swansea City showing

Jerry Yates got his first goal in Swansea City colours as the side rounded off their pre-season campaign with a 4-0 win away at League One Reading, and was happy with the clinical touch the visitors showed at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.

Joel Piroe put the Swans ahead with an excellent finish in the first half, before a relentless opening to the second period saw Piroe add to his tally. Quickfire goals from Yates and Matt Grimes had the Swans 4-0 up inside 10 minutes of the restart.

The Swans had chances to add to the scoreline throughout the second half, while they saw out late pressure from the Royals to ensure they kept another clean sheet.

“It’s nice to get a win coming off the back of two losses. We knew what we needed to put right,” said Yates.

“It’s pre-season, but we were told to go out there and treat it like a league game, which we did and I think we handled that well. We played with good intensity.

“That’s what we try to do every day in training, that’s what we push for every day. We’ve got to keep that energy up and take it into the first game.

“I’ve got a lot to improve on and showcase, but we’ve got very good fans and we’ve got to do it for them.

“It’s a nice feeling to score, the lads were very clinical. As soon as we got the chance to put pressure on we took it, and we need to take that into the first game.

“Everyone’s got the minutes in so we’ve just got to go into the first game full of confidence. We’re at home as well, which always gives you that bit extra."

The Swans host Birmingham City at the Swansea.com Stadium on the opening day of pre-season and Yates is looking forward to getting his Swans career under way in earnest. 

“I’m looking forward to the first home game,” he added.

“I’m sure the lads are looking forward to it and we can’t wait to get going.

"I don’t mind settling in somewhere new. For some people it might take time, but for me it’s something I enjoy. The lads are unbelievable and the staff and players have been excellent with me so far.

“We’ve got to be a close-knit group this season, we want to dig in and see where it takes us.

“I’m sure next week there will be a packed out crowd. We’ve just got to relish the opportunity to play our first home game of the season. I’m excited and the boys will be ready.”