Joe Roberts | Everyone should be proud of the journey

Swansea City Under-17s coach Joe Roberts believes his players have so much to be proud of, despite their disappointment at suffering Professional Development League Cup defeat against Luton Town.

The hosts, who had done superbly to reach the showpiece, had the better of large parts of the opening half at the Swansea.com Stadium, with striker Harvey Gray having their best chance.

But Alfie Shepherd fired the Hatters ahead six minutes before the break, and the visitors took control of the contest from that point.

Tate Xavier-Jones headed in their second just before the hour, and Benedict Benagr classily claimed their third.

"I think everyone can be proud of the journey we have been on," said Roberts.

"We said to the lads that to have come through the competition as we have, having so many different experiences against varying opposition and in varying circumstances, has been really, really good.

"So we are very proud of them, unfortunately we could not take that final step. It's a shame, but when we reflect on it we can be proud.

"It's been fantastic, there is a longer-term process and plan here, and this is a small part of it.

"For the lads in the dressing room, they should be aiming to be in that dressing room at this stadium every other week at 3pm on a senior matchday.

"So we have to keep that in mind, and coming through these experiences, bringing the group together has made it that extra bit special.

"We were bright in the first half, created some big chances. If you don't take them you are made to pay, and credit to Luton they took their chances."