Preview | Swansea City Ladies v Port Talbot

Swansea City Ladies face Port Talbot in the Welsh Premier Women's League Cup semi-final at Llandarcy on Sunday (2pm) fuelled by last season’s heartache.

Ian Owen’s side – winners of he tournament in 2016 – reached the final last season, only to be beaten 3-1 by Cardiff Met.

Met would also pip the Swans to the Welsh Premier Women's League title, and Owen believes those close calls have added to the drive and determination of his squad this time around.

His team have certainly responded in the right fashion this season, with the Swans currently boasting a perfect record in all competitions.

“I really enjoy seeing the players get their reward for their hard work,” said Owen.

“We’ve tasted success in the past, while last season we were so close on a number of trophies but fell just short. It’s a big motivation and having gone so close last season there is more motivation this time around.”

Despite the Swans going into the clash with Port Talbot as favourites, the message in the home camp is clear.

“The players know they must apply themselves,” said Owen. “Being favourites can sometimes cause you problems, but there isn’t any danger of that happening in this group.

“There are a lot of young players in our squad, but we have a lot of experience too and that helps.

“This season has been great so far, I can’t fault the effort, commitment or attitude from the squad.

“But it’s all good and well making a good start. If you want to win things then you have to continue your good work.

“Last season was hard to take because we got so close to lifting silverware. But we are determined not to experience that this season and we’re driven by those memories.”