Swansea City West Ham Under-21s Gary Richards
10th February
Gary Richards hailed Swansea City Under-21s' second-half performance as the development squad came from behind to end West Ham's 11-game unbeaten run at Rush Green.
The Hammers capitalised on a slow Swans start to take a 1-0 lead into the break thanks to a clinical finish from midfielder Grady Diangana.
But the Swans struck twice after the restart with goals from Josh Sheehan and Adam King ensuring the U21s secured their first win in Premier League Division Two since December.
"It was a game of two halves," Richards admitted. "We did not start the game well - our level of intensity was not right and we were wasteful in possession.
"West Ham looked a good side and capitalised in the first half to take deserved the lead into the break.
"We had a discussion at half-time to put things right and as a team looked more in control of the game after that."
Richards also praised the side's attacking display in the second half that saw Sheehan score a superb solo effort after a 40-yard run before King's strike outside the area on 75 minutes.
The Scottish midfielder was unlucky not to grab a second when his shot cannoned off the post five minutes from time.
"Both were great strikes from the edge of the area," added Richards. "Both goals have shown the level of attacking play we are capable of.
"As a side we looked dangerous with our chances in the second half and we could have won by more.
"We were second best in the first half but the team worked hard and recovered to win the game.
"We have three games in hand but they mean nothing unless we win them, so we must remain focused and make sure we build on this result."
READ MORE . . .
READ MORE . . .
