Martin praises focus of Steven Benda following key save

12th November
First team
Huddersfield away Steven Benda

Russell Martin hailed Steven Benda’s focus after the Swansea City goalkeeper came up with a key save in the closing stages of the goalless draw at Huddersfield.

The German had barely been troubled through a contest the Swans dominated.

But he was called upon in the 92nd minute to deny Danny Ward, rushing out quickly and standing tall to block the striker’s effort.

Nathan Wood then blocked the follow up effort as the Swans headed into the World Cup break eighth in the table but on the same number of points as sixth-placed Millwall.

Martin admitted Benda’s stop had been a massive moment, and hailed his levels of concentration.

"It's a massive save, Steven has also been outstanding with his feet, and he was again today," said Martin.

"He's as important with the ball as any other player on the pitch.

"Steven's been outstanding in this run of games we've had since he came into the team, really top.

"He was not needed for a huge amount but when he's called upon, he has to stay focused, concentrate and it's a massive save from a massive goalkeeper, not just physically but for us. He's been amazing.

"I'm frustrated he needed to make the save because it was a mistake from us. We've had too many of them recently and they've hurt us.

"We needed the moment from him and he produced it. I feel for Steve because we have conceded goals this week that were avoidable and he couldn't have done much more than he's done, he deserves more clean sheets, for sure. Hopefully we can build off the clean sheet we got today."