Yzzy Taylor | Our professionalism won us the game
Swansea City Women’s manager Yzzy Taylor was delighted to see her side confirm a place in the top four of the Genero Adran Premier ahead of the phase two split, while also praising the team’s professionalism in securing a 3-0 victory over The New Saints at the M&P Group 3G.
A first-half penalty from Aimee Deacon, followed by a goal from Chloe Chivers, set the platform for the Swans before Ellie Lake added a third after the break to seal the result.
The victory ensured Swansea moved onto 24 points, securing a top-four finish ahead of TNS, who can reach a maximum of 23 points in their remaining phase one fixtures.
The result marked three wins from the Swans’ last four matches, and Taylor was pleased to start the calendar year in such positive fashion and felt it was refreshing to return to competitive action after a prolonged break due to postponements, which she believes allowed her side to be as prepared as possible for the contest.
"I think as a group we managed the game well," said the Swans boss.
"There were periods in the game where we knew TNS would be strong and we would have to ride the wave. TNS can be relentless in their athleticism on their press - but when we needed to show resilience we did that in abundance.
"The goals came at great times for us and then being able to get another well worked goal in the second half really sealed the deal. We had strong performances all over the pitch so I am really pleased.
"I think professionalism won us the game. We created chances and on another day it could have been more, but then we were also asked to defend well.
"We spoke about going out and doing a job in this game and matching that with a performance we could be proud of, and I believe we have done that.
"Confirming a top-four place with two games to go is great - it was a goal of ours this season and shows the progression we have been able to make as a group. We have set other goals and will continue to strive for this in the next part of the season."