Preview | Barnsley under-18s vs Swansea City under-18s

Swansea City Under-18s kick off their Professional Development League campaign when they travel to take on Barnsley on Saturday (11am).

The Swans go into the fixture following a busy pre-season schedule, which included impressive wins over Exeter City and Penybont FC and a draw to Swindon Town.  

Barnsley, who finished second in the PDL North league last season, come into this fixture with an unbeaten pre-season run under their belts, winning 3-1 against Nottingham Forest in their most recent outing. 

PRE-MATCH VIEWS

Swansea City Under-18s coach Darren Davies: "We're looking forward to it, pre-season has been good and the boys have enjoyed it. We have been on the ball since day one. 

"We're looking forward to the season starting, the boys are very excited. We're going up the night before which gives us time to rest and do things properly in preparation for the game.

"We had a tough game up there last season and we'll expect another tough battle on Saturday. I'm sure they'll be excited just like us for the first day.

"I'm sure there'll be a little bit of nervous tension around the place, but we'll be looking to implement our style, our play, and go up there and just focus on us."

PREVIOUS MEETING

Barnsley U18s 2 Swansea City U18s 3

Swansea City came from behind twice to snatch victory on their last visit to Barnsley, despite playing the final half-hour with 10 men. 

Byron Anthony's side trailed when they conceded from a set play early in the first half, but they got back on level terms thanks to a Geoff Bony header. 

A fine finish from the Barnsley left wing-back from a long throw from the right restored the Tykes lead before the interval, but Kyrell Wilson again got the visitors back on level terms. 

The Swans were reduced to 10 when Jack Cooper was dismissed, but they showed great character to claim victory in stoppage time as substitute Iwan Morgan fired home.