Richards proud despite defeat

Gary Richards believes Swansea City Under-23s can hold their heads high despite suffering a 2-0 defeat against Everton at Goodison Park.

The loss ended an impressive eight game unbeaten run in Premier League 2 that included six wins and stretched back to October last year.

The home side were bolstered by first-team experience from Argentinian Ramiro Funes Mori and former Ajax midfielder Davy Klaassen as goals from Antony Evans and Con Ouzounidis proved the difference.

“We knew the winning run was going to come to an end sometime,” Richards admitted.

“The team were in the game for long periods and created some good chances but could not convert them in front of goal.

“We should have done better from the goals we conceded. The two set pieces cost us but is shows the areas we must work on going forward.

“They have also included the experience of two world-class internationals, but we have to rise to that challenge and prove ourselves against experienced players.

“It’s disappointing to end our unbeaten run but we should be proud of what we have achieved this season.

“We have to dust ourselves down, make sure we are ready for the next challenge and show what character we are made of to bounce-back.

“We still want to finish the season as strong as we can and climb as high as possible in the league.

“It is important we don’t let this defeat affect us too much. We have delivered in the past, so it is up to the group to show they can do it again.”