Monk hails "committed" Swans display

1st February

Garry Monk hailed his side's "committed" performance after the Swans ran out 1-0 victors at Southampton.

A late Jonjo Shelvey stunner was enough to secure Swansea a hard-fought victory at St. Mary's - their third away win of the season - to cap off a resilient display by Monk's men.

The Swans, whose numbers were depleted by injuries and absences, defended resolutely throughout the game and limited their high-flying opponents to few chances.

And after hitting the post with a long-range effort earlier in the second half, Shelvey struck home the winner with a sensational 25-yard drive in the 83rd minute.

Reflecting on Swansea's courageous performance, Monk felt his side executed their game plan to perfection.


"The game plan was to frustrate them, get to the hour mark and then push for the goal," said the Swans boss. "Tactically, I think we got it spot on today.

"We frustrated them in the first half, then we went for the three points in the second. And what a goal by Jonjo Shelvey - that's a goal worthy of winning any game.

"I'm happy with the three points in what has been a difficult month for us. We spoke about getting back to basics in the week, and we executed the plan very well.

"We've been in a difficult moment, especially in the last two games. We didn't show the commitment we've shown all season. But today was a very committed performance.

"There are periods in a season when you have to adapt. We've played some fantastic football this season, but you have to adapt sometimes, and we did that every well today."

Meanwhile, Saints boss Ronald Koeman was left frustrated and disappointed after his side suffered their first defeat of 2015.



"It's frustrating because I don't think we deserved to lose," said the Dutchman. "We played very well in the first half and had good chances, but if you don't score it's difficult to keep up that dominance.
"It's disappointing, but the spirit of the players means we will keep going."