Pennock delighted with fourth cup win

Tony Pennock revealed his delight at seeing his young Swans win the FAW Welsh Cup for the fourth year in a row.

The Under-19s recorded a 7-4 win over West End at the Liberty Stadium on Thursday night to retain the trophy once more.

Three goals in the first seven minutes set the tone before the Swans went on to lead 4-1 at the break.

James Loveridge went on to seal his hat-trick to make it six for the home side before a three-goal reply from West End threatened a valiant comeback.

But Liam Shephard's late goal put the gloss on a wonderful night for Pennock's young side.

"It was the story of our season really," he said. "We have conceded a few goals but its always pleasing to score seven goals, particularly in a cup final.

"After those three early goals I think everyone was wondering how it was going to pan out. But to be fair to West End, they did really well second half and deserved their four goals on the night.

"We always play our strongest team in the Welsh Cup and its great that the boys have won it once more.

"The boys are disappointed with the goals we've conceded, but we've won the cup for a fourth consecutive year and we're delighted."

The Swans included three first-year pros in their starting line-up as Scott Tancock, Henry Jones and James Loveridge al featured.

Tancock captained the side in his fourth final, while Jones scored a sublime free kick and Loveridge netted a superb hat-trick.

And Pennock was full of praise for the latter as he took home the match ball in his fourth Welsh Cup win.

"James has had a bit of a stop start season," he said. "He scored a couple of goals for the Under-21s, but found himself out of the team for the last few games.

"But I'm pleased for him because he's worked hard these last couple of months and he has finished the season off with a great hat-trick."