Maric: We'll keep fighting

Adnan Maric insists Swansea City Under-23s will “fight right to the end” after their Premier League 2 survival hopes suffered a huge setback in last night’s defeat by West Ham United.

The young Swans were beaten 3-0 at the Liberty Stadium as Dan Kemp’s brace sandwiched a strike from Mesaque Dju.

Defeat left the development side seven points from safety with just three matches remaining.

Nevertheless, Maric insists the Swans will not lie down and aim to finish the season as strongly as possible.

“I don’t think any of us are going to crumble,” the midfielder said.

“We all know the challenge we face but will give 100 per cent as we have done most of this season.

“Everyone is going to give everything and I can guarantee you that we will fight right to the end.” 

It was a tale of two penalties as West Ham keeper Joseph Anang denied Adam King’s first-half effort, while Kemp slotted home from 12 yards after the break.

That swung the contest in the Hammers’ favour and it was an uphill struggle for the Swans from there.

And, having enjoyed the better of the early stages, Maric admits the defeat was a tough one to take.

“We knew how important the game was,” he added. “We were aware of our situation and the fact we needed points. 

“It was in our hands but the game ran away from us, which has happened a few times this season. Maybe, we need to manage things a bit better, but I did feel that we were unlucky.

“They got awarded a penalty which they put away, so the momentum shifted and we felt more pressure. It was another hill we had to climb. 

“It was a difficult one to take because I think we started off really well. Even after they scored, we kept on going and had chances to equalise, but it just felt like the ball didn’t fall for us.”