Jon Beale | The boys showed tremendous character

Coach Jon Beale praised the tremendous character of Swansea City Under-18s as they fought back to claim a dramatic win against Hull City at the MKM Stadium in the FA Youth Cup.

Swansea found themselves one-goal up at the 10-minute mark thanks to a close-range tap in from Harvey Gray but Josh Ocaya got the leveller for Hull from his corner in the 33rd minute. 

Caio Ifans restored the Swans' lead in the second half with a lovely volley from inside the area.

A stoppage-time equaliser from Hull's George Akinninranye looked to have sent the game to extra-time, but Popham gave Swans' the lead once again with seconds remaining as he netted from Ifans' free-kick in the 97th minute.

It was also a return to an old club for Beale, having served as Academy manager for the Tigers since 2023.

"It feels great if I’m honest. To react in such a positive way to the disappointment of conceding a late equaliser shows enormous character and what a way to win," said Beale.

"They showed a lot of togetherness which is great to see as it’s such an important part of the game. Hull really made us work at times. To react in such a positive way after the disappointment of conceding the equaliser so late, just shows the type of character we have within the group. 

"There is always a lot of hype in the build up to FA Youth Cup games, which adds that little bit extra to the game. 

"As well as playing in the stadium and the knowledge that this is knock-out football all add to the experience of what is a big part of a player’s development and I’m sure the lads really enjoyed the experience.

"We will certainly look forward to the next round because it’s another game, another opportunity and will offer another great experience for every involved in the group.”