‘We attacked with confidence’

29th March

Cameron Toshack was pleased to see Swansea City Under-23s progress in the Premier League Cup with an attacking display that saw them beat Bristol City 4-2.

The young Swans attacked from the off at Landore, creating a host of early chances before Botti Biabi and Kenji Gorre netted in quick succession before the break.

Biabi added a third soon after half-time before Adnan Maric scored a fourth, with Bristol City netting twice late on.

The result will see the under-23s continue the defence of the cup they lifted last season in the quarter-final at home against Brighton next month.

“We are really pleased to progress,” Toshack said.

“This competition is a great opportunity for these players to impress and we attacked with confidence from the first whistle.

“We could have scored two or three with the opportunities we created in the opening 15 minutes but kept going, got the opener and rolled on from there.

“It is important we progress, not just to defend the title, but more games mean more development opportunities for our players.

“That is what it is all about. It is nice to challenge for a trophy, but we want competitive games to challenge players that are coming through the system.”

The development side had a youthful edge once again with Ben Cabango (pictured above) and Matthew Blake starting in defence.

The under-18 pair are part of a crop of homegrown players starting to push through the academy system, with Cabango’s 45-yard pass helping craft the fourth goal.

“It is important we push and stretch our younger players who will be stepping up to development football next season.” Toshack continued.

“I thought the players that stepped up today did really well. Ben and Matthew looked good out there. They have trained with us the last few days and not looked out of place.

“Ben had the vision to see the opportunity to play in behind and knowing Daniel James’ attributes, with his speed and skill, it led to a goal. So he deserves credit.

“We have involved a number of under-18s this season and none have let themselves down.

“Chances at this level can be limited so when you do get your chance you have to show what you can do, and I think both did that today.”