Welcome back to the Swansea.com Stadium for our Championship fixture against Leeds United.

Everyone at the club was saddened to hear the news that popular Swans fan Chris Brown passed away over the weekend.

Chris was a much-loved member of the community and a keen follower of the club both home and away.

I was blessed to have had multiple conversations with Chris. He was the first to come welcome me to the area at our opening fixture against Birmingham earlier and he was so kind to me. So genuine and so positive.

I remember my youngest daughter saying after meeting Chris, “Daddy, people are so nice here.” That really stuck with me, and I will always be grateful to him for that.

It reminded me that “Superheroes” come in many forms.

I would like to pass our sincerest condolences to Chris’s family and friends at this sad time and we will remember him against Leeds with a minute’s applause in the 29th minute.

Our last home game here against Plymouth was dedicated to our charity partner of the season, Maggie’s, which was a resounding success.

The dedicated matchday was part of our season-long ‘Tackling Cancer Together’ campaign to raise awareness of all the facets of a cancer journey, from the initial diagnosis, to the mental health impact, financial struggles, and the immense impact that Maggie’s has on individuals within our community.

A whole host of activities took place across the day to shine a light of the incredible work that Maggie’s does, and I want to place on record my sincere thanks to all the staff at the club who went above and beyond to make the day so great.

Supporters can still get their hands on a very special piece of memorabilia through our online auction of the Maggie’s matchday jerseys worn by our players against Plymouth Argyle, which has been incredibly well received so far.

All money raised from the auction will be donated to Maggie's, which concludes on Wednesday (February 14) at 8pm. You can place a bid on any of the match-worn shirts HERE.

You can also take a look back at the story of our Maggie’s Matchday by watching the video HERE.

Last Saturday saw us return to winning ways with victory over Hull in what was a fantastic performance.

The squad have been showing clear signs of improvement under Luke over the past few weeks and deservedly claimed a great three points – a great reward for the 300 travelling Jacks who made the long journey to Humberside.

This Friday (February 16) is the deadline for season ticket holders to secure their seat for the 2024-25 campaign at our discounted early-bird rates.

All price packages work out at less than £18 per game, and I would like to thank each and every one of you who has already renewed for next season – your support for this club is invaluable.

The easiest way to renew your season ticket is online HERE.

As always, get behind the team like you have done all season and let’s hope we are celebrating together come the final whistle.

Enjoy the game,

Andy

 

Hello and welcome back to the Swansea.com Stadium for our Championship fixture against Leeds United.

We return to home soil following our victory over Hull City at the weekend, where the players got their deserved rewards for the grit and determination they showed.

We spoke in the build-up about the belief we had in our work as a group, and the importance of taking that out onto the pitch and continuing to improve our performances.

The players did that, and a win and clean sheet away from home is perfect. I was really pleased with how we did all elements of the game well.

We created a number of chances and got into a number of really promising positions with the ball, but we also defended really strongly, as we knew we would need to do against a very good side.

At the end we had to deal with a number of balls into our box, and they even had their six-and-a-half foot goalkeeper up in our area right at the end! We needed to stand firm and we did that.

Our goal came from a well-worked set-piece, and credit goes to Alan Sheehan and Martyn Margetson for that.

I stand in awe watching the level of detail and work they go through with the players. It’s then on the players to deliver on those instructions on a matchday, and the lads did that immaculately and it proved the difference in the game.

We know we face another tough assignment against a Leeds team who are up towards the top of the table and in excellent form.

We have some really tough games coming up against top opposition, so we have to try and learn as much as we possibly can from the weekend and understand why we have been successful.

We now have to make that the standard we don’t drop from.

I had felt a strong, positive energy in the changing room ahead of the game. We played with the belief I mentioned earlier, and now we have a chance to build on that belief.

We have to try to harness that. We have to find our own way, and repetition of what we are working on is important in helping us do that.

You will make mistakes as you work on things, but if you keep working, improving your understanding and improving your accuracy it will eventually become second nature to you and that builds confidence.

We have played well in periods of games at home recently. We want to make sure those periods last for longer and make the most of the chances we create, and maintain our concentration and focus throughout the 90 minutes.

If we do that, and with you roaring us on, we will give ourselves the best chance of producing a performance can get us a positive result.

I also want to take a moment to pass on my sincerest condolences to the friends and family of devoted Swans fan Chris Brown, who has sadly passed away.

Chris was a much-loved member of the Jack Army who followed our team home and away, and it is only right we remember him with a minute's applause in the 29th minute of this fixture.

Luke

 

A warm welcome back to the Swansea.com Stadium for our game against high-flying Leeds United.

I’m writing these notes after that excellent all-round team performance that saw us pick up three crucial points and a clean sheet against play-off hopefuls Hull City.

With the January transfer window behind us, it’s been good to see the really positive impact our three new first-team players have made.

They seem to have quickly settled in, and their pace has given us an added threat in the final third.

I’ve been particularly impressed with Ronald, he is almost like a throwback to the old-fashioned style of winger I loved to see when I was growing up, where he is always looking to hug the touchline, beat his opponent and get a cross into the box.

Whisper it quietly, but the last two games have seen us look more balanced, and the performance in Hull would certainly have been one that Luke Williams and Alan Sheehan will have been pleased with; including how well Liam Cullen took his goal from a rehearsed corner-kick routine.

I feel Luke himself has also settled into life back at the club with a great deal of poise. He has always looked to emphasise the work of the staff and the players around him, and has displayed a positive mindset.

He spoke of his belief and confidence ahead of the trip to Hull, it immediately takes the pressure off the players to see a head coach exude such calmness, and it ended up in a terrific result and performance.

Of course, we cannot help but see how well Leeds are doing this season, and those top four teams look set for an exciting run-in as they look to get promoted to the Premier League.

At least one of those four stand-out teams will invariably miss out at the end of the season, and I honestly cannot call which way that battle will pan out with the way they are all presently playing.

It goes without saying there will be lots of mixed emotions when we see the number of ex-Swans and Wales players in the Leeds squad, and I will refrain from naming them as whenever I’ve done that for previous opponents the individual I have named has invariably scored against us!

But, regardless of the results over the next couple of games, I will be content to see us continuing to get back to competing all over the field and playing in a style that gets me on my feet again.

Off the field, we as a Trust are keeping busy with more meetings lined up with representatives of the club ownership and senior management team over the next couple of weeks. We are also pushing for a date that can be announced in the coming weeks for the next fans’ forum.

If you have anything you’d like us to ask on your behalf, please come and see us at the Trust Pod before any home game, or send us an email to supporters@swanstrust.co.uk.

There are a couple of other areas of work coming up to remind you of, too. After the next two home games have been played, the first Matchday Experience working group meeting will be taking place at the stadium on Friday, February 23 and we are looking forward to seeing that initiative develop over the coming months.

On the same day, we are hosting our first of three Swansea City Heritage talks at the stadium, led by award-winning author David Brayley.

This first instalment will focus on ‘The Golden Era of the 1950s’ and, with only a few spaces remaining, it’s an event I’m looking forward to. More details on all three upcoming events are available HERE.

Then, a week later, over St David’s Day weekend, we are hosting our next Global Jacks event, which takes in the Blackburn home game and our away trip to Watford a few days later.

This is a project I really enjoy, and it will be great to meet up with Swans supporters from around the world once again, with attendees coming from countries such as Greece, Poland, Ireland and the USA. More information on what we have lined up that weekend is available HERE.

Enjoy tonight’s game, and let’s get behind the team to help us get another positive result. 

Dave

 

The Swansea.com Stadium has become a period positive venue with free period products available in toilets throughout the ground.

The Swans have worked with TOTM – a planet-friendly period product company based in south Wales – to provide access to products at Swans matches, while staff at the stadium will also have access during the working week.

Swansea City believes period products should be treated as essential – just like toilet paper – and the club is proud to be implementing a new means for supporters attending matches, and for staff employed at the club, to have access to provisions.

Seventy per cent of those who have periods have experienced instances of being caught short, while period poverty is on the rise with 32 per cent of people worrying about the cost of products.

As well as the practical and financial challenges periods can provide, there is also a taboo, which leaves half of people who menstruate to feel uncomfortable discussing them.

Swansea City hopes that by becoming a period positive venue and football club, it can help break down these stigmas and champion initiatives – like those promoted by TOTM – which focus on menstrual comfort and period dignity.

The club recently held a period dignity business event at the stadium, which was hosted by Gabriella Jukes, and attended by businesses across the city. Guest speakers included the club's safeguarding officer Rebeca Storer, and representatives from local charities.

The club also works with local charity STOPP, who provide free period products in all public toilets across the city - as well as providing products for those most in need - by donating products to their cause as well as raising awareness of the challenges some people face due to their periods.

“Providing free period products is the next important step as we take action to back up the important strides made in this area over the past few months,” explained Storer.

“We believe that access to period products should be free in public toilets, and we’re pleased to have been able to take this step as a club by providing our supporters with environmentally-friendly products from a local company.

“It’s important for wellbeing that people can manage their periods with dignity and in comfort and we will be continuing to work in this area, reducing taboos and shining a spotlight on the excellent work of local businesses and charities.”

 

It’s the final chance for Swansea City supporters to get their hands on a very special piece of memorabilia through our online auction of the Maggie’s matchday jerseys worn by our players against Plymouth Argyle.

The Swans wore a limited edition one-off home kit for the fixture against the Pilgrims, which featured the Maggie's logo next to our club crest, and the auction to bid for one of the jerseys closes at 8pm on Wednesday (February 14).

all money raised from the auction will be donated to Maggie's in order to help them continue to deliver their vital range of services for those impacted by cancer.

Maggie's rely totally on fundraising to keep their doors open, and costs to run their Swansea centre for 2024 are expected to be approximately £700,000.

Shirts worn by Swansea City players in the match are now available to bid on in a live auction, which includes match-worn and match-issued shirts.

You can bid for one of the jerseys here.

The Maggie's matchday formed the latest part of our 'Tackling Cancer Together' campaign, which was launched in August 2023 when the cancer support charity became our official partner for the 2023-24 campaign.

Our vibrant, eye-catching pink third kit has been central to the campaign. The kit features spots of various colours, which represent some of the most common types of cancer.

The campaign includes a dedicated page on our website where you can share your own cancer stories, and donate to Maggie's.

New signing Ronald wants to provide moments of excitement and joy to the Jack Army after completing his move to Swansea City towards the end of the January transfer window.

The 22-year-old winger joined from Brazilian club Gremio Anapolis for an undisclosed fee, and has already provided exciting glimpses of the pace and trickery he can provide in forward areas.

He has signed a contract through to the summer of 2027, with the option for an additional 12 months, and wears the number 35 shirt for the Swans.

Ronald has spent the last 18 months on loan in Portugal with Estrela da Amadora, helping them secure promotion to the top-flight, where he has made 17 appearances so far this term.

The aim is for him to bring athleticism and dynamism to head coach Luke Williams’ options in the final third, and the Brazilian is eager to make his mark in SA1 and gets fans out of their seats.

“I hope to bring moments of happiness, and help my teammates in all aspects of the game,” he said.

“I am a winger, I am very fast and good in one-to-one situations. I like to score goals and make assists. I like to attack high up the field, and I hope I can create difficulties for my opponents.

“I AM VERY MOTIVATED, IT IS A DREAM TO BE HERE. I AM VERY MOTIVATED AND EXCITED TO TRY AND PROVIDE MOMENTS OF HAPPINESS FOR THE FANS OF SWANSEA.

“It has been a dream of mine to play football in the UK. I have achieved that goal and objective and now I want to help the team achieve good things.”

Ronald has been impressed with the set-up and the facilities he has found in SA1, and believes he is ready to have an impact in the Championship on the back of his experience in Portugal.

“The structure of the club is very impressive, I have never been at a club like this, in Brazil or Portugal,” he said.

“I am very happy that the club has shown faith in me. I am just focusing on being happy here and trying to help the team.

“I feel ready. I grew up as a man and as a player during my 18 months in Portugal, so I am more mature and prepared for the higher level that the Championship is.

“I hope I can adapt as quickly as possible so I can help the team soon.”

Ronald has already racked up three appearances for his new club, featuring against Leicester City, Plymouth Argyle and Hull City.

And he is keen for more after enjoying his initial outings in Swansea colours.

“For me it was incredible to make my debut,” he said.

“I never expected to have an emotion like the one I felt playing for the team in a great stadium and, regardless of the result, I was very happy to have played and now I need to make sure I work and focus, and think about the next game.

“The expectation for playing at home in front of the fans is very high, and I'm very motivated to play at the Swansea.com Stadium, even more so after making my debut there.

“I want to start off on the right foot and I’m really hungry to do well for this club."

 

 

There's one stadium tour available to purchase for February half-term at 10am (February 15). 

Prices are as follows:

Adults: £15

Senior Citizen (Over-65): £12

Juniors: £12

Under-threes: Free

You can secure your place by clicking below.

 

 

*Our February half-term tour with Lee Trundle taking place on Thursday, February 15 at 1pm is now sold out. 

 

Wales international striker and Swansea City legend  Alan Curtis was an influential figure in the club's thrilling rise under John Toshack.

Signing professional at the Vetch Field in July 1972, he was leading marksman in Swansea's 1977-78 promotion success and moved to Leeds United for £350,000 in June 1979.

He re-joined Swansea in December 1980 after a serious knee injury hampered his time at Elland Road, and he featured in consecutive Welsh Cup final triumphs and the unforgettable promotion to the top-flight in 1981.

He helped the Swans launch a Division One title charge the following campaign, beginning it with a wonderful solo goal in a 5-1 win over Leeds, before joining Southampton in November 1983.

He later had spells with Stoke City, Cardiff City, Swansea again, Barry Town and Haverfordwest, before returning to Swansea and holding a number of roles including caretaker manager, assistant-manager, head of youth development and first-team coach before retiring in 2019.

Curtis was awarded an MBE in the Queen's New Year's Honours List in 2022 for services to Welsh football stretching back over four decades.

 

Swansea City fell to defeat against Plymouth Argyle at the Swansea.com Stadium as Morgan Whittaker's strike proved the difference.

Swansea City: Carl Rushworth, Jay Fulton (Przemyslaw Placheta 57), Ben Cabango, Matt Grimes (captain), Jerry Yates (Liam Cullen 68), Jamie Paterson, Josh Tymon, Nathan Wood, Kyle Naughton, Ollie Cooper (Charlie Patino 77), Ronald (Charles Sagoe Jr 77).

Unused Substitutes: Andy Fisher, Joe Allen, Mykola Kuharevich, Bashir Humphreys, Filip Lissah.

Plymouth Argyle: Conor Hazard, Bali Mumba (Matthew Sorinola 86), Ryan Hardie (Ben Waine 75), Morgan Whittaker (captain) (Julio Pleguezuelo 90), Mickel Miller (Lind Sousa 86), Alfie Devine (Adam Randell 75), Lewis Gibson, Darko Gyabi, Brendan Galloway, Ashley Phillips, Adam Forshaw.

Unused Substitutes: Callum Burton,Callum Wright, Caleb Roberts, Freddie Issaka.

Referee: Sam Allison

Attendance: 16,965

 

Swansea City claimed the first league win of Luke Williams’ tenure as Liam Cullen’s goal gave them victory over play-off hopefuls Hull City at the MKM Stadium.

Cullen swept home a Josh Tymon corner in the 11th minute for his fifth goal of the season, and it proved the difference, although the Swans margin of victory could have been greater given the promising positions they got themselves into.

They also defended stoutly when required as the visitors followed their head coach’s demand that they show belief in themselves despite being viewed as underdogs, and it yielded a deserved three points and a first away win at Hull since 2014.

 

Hull City: Ryan Allsop, Lewie Coyle (captain) (Billy Sharp 55), Ryan Giles, Jacob Greaves, Alfie Jones, Ozan Tufan (Adama Traore 68), Tyler Murton, Jaden Philogene, Regan Slater, Fabio Carvalho (Abdulkadir Omur 76), Anass Zaroury (Aaron Connolly 68).

Unused Substitutes: Ivor Pandur, Sean McLoughlin, Greg Docherty, Noah Ohio, Matty Jacob.

Swansea City: Carl Rushworth, Jay Fulton (Charlie Patino 78), Ben Cabango, Matt Grimes (captain), Jamie Paterson, Josh Tymon, Przemyslaw Placheta (Joe Allen 66), Liam Cullen (Jerry Yates 66), Nathan Wood, Kyle Naughton (Bashir Humphreys 74), Ronald (Ollie Cooper 78).

Unused Substitutes: Andy Fisher, Mykola Kuharevich, Charles Sagoe Jr, Filip Lissah.

Referee: Geoff Eltringham

Attendance: 21,017

 

Swansea City AFC Foundation has donated books promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion to Ynysfach Primary School as part of the EFL Together campaign.

The EFL has donated over 2,000 books to clubs across England and Wales for local primary schools, helping to provide vital education to young people on these important topics.

The book collections include a wide range of titles which represent different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives; promoting diversity in literature, in order to help inspire understanding, empathy, and a sense of unity.

Club ambassador Lee Trundle and Foundation sports and education co-ordinator Katy Hosford delivered the books to pupils from the Neath school.

“It’s great the EFL are spreading the message of diversity and inclusion, these messages will filter through the schools and into the wider communities,” said Trundle.

“With the diversity that we have in society today, it’s important that young people learn about equality and inclusion from an early age.

“There are a real variety of books, and it’s important for young people to have something that interests them that they can really engage with.”

Hosford added: “It’s always great to encourage young people to read, but to have them reading about such important topics really adds to it.

“You could see how excited the pupils were when they received their books and that’s really great, we want to have young people feeling enthusiastic about reading.

“I think these topics are crucial for young people to learn about, it helps them to grow and understand how to treat people.”

Wrth i brofion fynd, nid ydynt yn mynd yn llawer llymach na hyn. Heno, mae Abertawe yn croesawu tîm Leeds United sydd wedi ennill chwe gêm gynghrair yn olynol i aros yn gadarn yn yr brywdr am le yn nau uchaf y Bencampwriaeth.

Hyd yn oed hefo colli ychydig o bwyntiau ar ôl Nadolig, mae Leicester City yn dal i edrych yn anghyffyrddadwy a gallent guro record Reading o 106 pwynt o dymor 2005-06.

Ond, ar ôl dechrau araf, mae Southampton a Leeds hefyd yn cael tymhorau anhygoel, ac yn sicr mae’n ymddangos yn ras rhwng y ddau hynny am yr ail safle yn yr adran. Wrth gwrs, does dim o hyn yn helpu’r Elyrch wrth mynd i fewn i’w gwrthdaro gyda Leeds heno.

Fe fydd digon o wynebau cyfarwydd yng ngharfan y gwrthwynebwyr, gan cynnwys cyn-chwaraewyr academi Abertawe Daniel James a Joe Rodon. Gall dadlau eu bod yn y ffurf orau yn eu bywydau ar hyn o bryd.

Mae’n sicr yn argoeli’n dda i Gymru cyn eu gêm rownd gynderfynol ail cyfle Ewro 2024 yn erbyn Y Ffindir yng Nghaerdydd mis nesaf.

Yna, wrth gwrs, mae Connor Roberts a seliodd symudiad benthyciad i Leeds o Burnley ar y dyddiad cau o'r ffenestr Mis Ionawr, a gallai'r newid i garfan Daniel Farke roi bywyd newydd i'r dyn o Gastell-nedd. Allwch chi ddim anghofio Ethan Ampadu, y dyn yn canol y cae sy'n tynnu'r tannau.

Mae'n anodd credu ei fod ond yn 23 oed. Bydd y chwaraewr canol cae - ar yr amod ei fod yn cadw'n heini - yn ennill ei 50fed cap dros ei wlad ym mis Mawrth, ac mae yntau bellach yn gyson yn cynhyrchu arddangosfeydd gorau ei yrfa.

Wrth gwrs, mae gan Leeds ddigon o fygythiadau eraill yn eu rhengoedd, gan gynnwys rhai fel Patrick Bamford, Wilfried Gnonto, Crysencio Summerville a Georginio Rutter.

Ond mae yna un dyn y bydd cefnogwyr Abertawe yn ei ofni fwyaf. Neu efallai ddim cymaint ag yr oeddent yn meddwl y byddent. Daeth Joel Piroe yn arwr yn Abertawe ar ôl sgorio 46 gôl mewn 96 ymddangosiad i'r clwb.

Roedd bob amser yn mynd i chwarae ar lefel uwch ar ôl serennu o dan Russell Martin yn ne Cymru, ond nid yw hynny wedi gweithio allan i'r ymosodwr yn Leeds.

Efallai ei fod yn swnio fel peth rhyfedd i’w ddweud am chwaraewr sgoriodd ar ôl dim ond 19 munud ar ei ymddangosiad cyntaf i’r Gwynion yn erbyn Ipswich ac sydd bellach â 10 gôl gynghrair i’w enw i’r clwb.

Nid yw wedi dechrau unrhyw un o chwe gêm gynghrair ddiwethaf Leeds ond dyma’r math o chwaraewr sy’n gallu gwneud argraff fawr oddi ar y fainc, sy’n dynodi pam mae tîm Farke yn cael tymor mor drawiadol.

Mae cefnogwyr Abertawe wastad yn poeni am 'felltith y cyn-chwaraewr' - ac os byth mae'n mynd i streicio, heno fydd y noson. Ond ar ôl sicrhau buddugoliaeth gyntaf yn y gynghrair o dan Luke Williams yn Hull City, fe fydd yr Elyrch yn gallu chwarae’n hyderus heno.

Roedd y perfformiad yn erbyn Plymouth Argyle hefyd yn gryf iawn, a does dim dwywaith fod Williams eisoes yn gwneud ei farc ar y tîm. Mae gornest ddiddorol yn ein disgwyl, ac mae'n un y dylai Abertawe ymhyfrydu ynddi wrth i'r pwysau eistedd yn gadarn ar ysgwyddau Leeds.

Ian Mitchelmore

This season marks the 30th anniversary of Swansea City’s first trip to Wembley for the Autoglass Trophy final in 1994. To mark it, our club historian Gwyn Rees takes us back through the story of that campaign and some of the key figures involved. Here, he profiles the manager who led the Swans to silverware at Wembley; Frank Burrows.

Frank Burrows was born in Larkhall in Scotland on January 30, 1944. Growing up in a region that also produced former Dundee United manager Jim McLean, he soon showed his potential as a schoolboy player and joined Raith Rovers in 1962.

As teak tough defender, known for being an uncompromising and often intimidating presence, Burrows would eventually leave his homeland to try his luck south of the border with Scunthorpe United.

He soon became a regular and, when Mel Nurse left Swindon Town in 1968, it was Burrows they opted for to replace him.

The Scot proved to be a tremendous acquisition, playing alongside Stan Harland in a watertight defence that let in only 35 goals in 46 league games as the Robins were promoted and pipped Watford to the Third Division title on goal difference.

As impressive as this was, it was in the League Cup that Swindon made all the headlines that season, battling through to the Wembley final against the mighty Arsenal, where they shocked the football world by defeating the Gunners 3-1 after extra-time.

After making over 350 appearances for the Robins, during the 1973-74 season he became player-coach at the club.

Burrows’ ambition to become a manager saw him move to Portsmouth in 1979, winning promotion to the Third Division a year later. A short spell as manager at Sunderland was followed by him taking over at Cardiff City in 1986, and he secured promotion up from the fourth tier in 1988.

However, a disagreement with the Ninian Park board saw him resign his position, and he moved back to Portsmouth for a short spell.

March 1991 would see him return to south Wales to take over at the Vetch Field, replacing Terry Yorath as Swans boss.

Burrows inherited a relegation battle, but he led the Swans to safety and the following campaign saw him secure the Welsh Cup by beating Wrexham at the National Stadium in Cardiff.

His knowledge of the lower leagues meant he was often astute in his transfer dealings, as evidenced by the acquisitions of the likes of John Williams, Des Lyttle and John Ford from non-league clubs. All three would perform well for Swansea and make the club a considerable profit when they moved on to pastures new.

Such moves allowed Burrows to build an improving side and the Swans narrowly missed out on a first Wembley visit when they lost to West Bromwich Albion in the Second Division play-offs at the end of the 1992-93 season.

However, that trip to the famous old stadium soon arrived when Burrows led Swansea City to the Autoglass Trophy final against Huddersfield Town.

The game finished 1-1 after extra-time, but the team kept its nerve, winning 3-1 in the penalty shootout to cap a fantastic day for players and supporters alike.

The next season once again saw inconsistency in league performances but, after just 10 games of the following season and with senior players leaving amid doubts over a potential sale of the club, Burrows shocked everyone when he announced he was resigning.

He became something of a footballing nomad after leaving SA1, returning to Cardiff City for a brief spell, then moving on to West Bromwich Albion, before being diagnosed with cancer of the kidneys in 2001.

He continued in various scouting positions for different clubs, and was connected with Leicester City when he sadly passed away in November 2021.

We’ve had some classic dust-ups with Leeds United over the years, so for this column I have decided to look back at my top five favourite Swans games against the Yorkshire club.

However, while I was doing some research to jog my failing memory, I found something of a surprise – a fascinating match I have to admit I knew little or nothing about.

Reading about the game really sparked my interest.

As a result, it found its way into my top five – despite the fact it was a Swans defeat!

But before we take a more detailed look at that game – let’s remind ourselves of some classic Swans wins.

Top of the list for those who remember it will surely be the 5-1 win on the opening day of the 1981-82 season as the Swans made their debut in the top-flight.

Bob Latchford’s hat-trick, Alan Curtis’ brilliant fifth goal and iconic celebration; they are stand-out moments during the Swans’ long history.

Then, there was the unforgettable 3-2 victory in 2007 when the Swans bounced back from Ferrie Bodde being sent off in the League One top-of-the-table clash played at a packed Liberty Stadium.

Jason Scotland’s solo goal to put the Swans 3-1 up at half-time will always be a favourite moment for me in a win which saw the Swans take a five-point lead at the summit of the standings.

And what about the 3-0 drubbing we meted out to United courtesy of a Scott Sinclair brace in the Championship in February 2011?

Luke Moore rounded off a magnificent win which saw the home team keep up their push for promotion to the Premier League.

The most recent Swans win I wanted to revisit was the 1-0 smash and grab raid we launched on Elland Road at the start of the 2019-20 season.

 

 

There’s nothing quite like clinching an away victory with a last-minute winner, which was delivered courtesy of Wayne Routledge in front of the delirious travelling Jack Army.

But while I was reminding myself of some of the details of those classic Swans wins, I stumbled across the details of an FA Cup third-round clash between the clubs in 1970.

This match took place about eight years before my first visit to the Vetch, but it still came as something of a surprise that I hadn’t read about it before.

Leeds, of course, were flying high having won the league title the previous season.

Under the leadership of their legendary manager Don Revie, the Elland Road outfit were forging their reputation as one of the most formidable club sides British football has ever seen.

The team which took the field in Yorkshire that day was pretty much their iconic line-up of the era – packed with household names.

The home team was: Gary Sprake, Paul Reaney, Terry Cooper, Billy Bremner, Jack Charlton, Norman Hunter, Peter Lorimer, Allan Clarke, Mick Jones, Johnny Giles, Paul Madely. Sub: Terry Yorath.

No putting out weakened teams in the FA Cup in those days!

By contrast, the Swans team was full of local talent: Tony Millington, David Lawrence, Vic Gomersall, Carl Slee, Mel Nurse, Geoff Thomas, Len Allchurch, Willie Screen, Herbie Williams, Dai Gwyther, Brian Evans. Sub: Doug Rosser.

The first thing that struck me about the match was that neither side played in their familiar all-white strips.

Leeds had only relatively recently adopted their kit of white shirts, white shorts and white socks in the early 1960s. Apparently, Revie wanted them to look and play like the great Real Madrid sides of that era.

However, it had already become their trademark look and was recognised across Europe.

The Swans had played in white shirts and white shorts since their inception in 1912 – apart from a brief period in the 1950s when they wore black shorts.

But, on this day, Leeds lined-up in an all-blue kit – apart from their usual white socks. The Swans, meanwhile, were in all-red for the day.

The unfamiliar feel to the occasion continued once the whistle sounded to start the match.

Any expectations the reigning champions of England would dominate the fourth-tier side from Wales were instantly dispelled.

In front of a crowd of more than 30,000, the Swans more than held their own against the champions in the early stages and took a surprise lead after 24 minutes.

An Evans shot was turned away by Leeds’ Swansea-born goalkeeper Sprake, but Gwyther was on hand to put the Swans ahead.

As the game went on the Swans looked to be on their way to one of the biggest FA Cup shocks to that date.

Leeds’ fifth-round humbling at the hands of Colchester United was more than a year away, and their defeat in the final at the hands of Sunderland didn’t come until 1973.

However, the match turned on a controversial incident on the hour mark when a coming together between Clarke and Nurse saw the United player end up flat on the floor.

After consulting his linesman, referee Danny Corbett sent Nurse off, a decision described as harsh not only by Swans fans but many neutral observers at the game.

Ten minutes later, Leeds were level thanks to a Giles penalty after Lawrence was adjudged to have handled in the box.

And, with just 12 minutes left, Jones headed his side in front from a Cooper corner.

The Swans had a chance to force a replay at the Vetch in the last minute, but Evans was denied by Sprake.

To illustrate how well the Swans had performed on the day, the following Saturday Leeds went to Stamford Bridge where they hammered Chelsea 5-2 in the First Division.

Revie’s team would go on to reach the final of the FA Cup where they eventually lost to Chelsea in a replay, which is reputed to be the dirtiest FA Cup match in history.

The Swans would get some consolation that season, going on to win promotion to the old Third Division.

If this match turns out to be as entertaining as some of the encounters recalled above – especially the Swans wins - we should be in for a treat.

C’mon you Swans!

Swansea City Under-21s were held to a draw against Aston Villa in their final Premier League Cup group-stage fixture at Bodymoor Heath, but it proved enough to secure a place in the knockout stages.

Cameron Congreve slotted home the opener for the visitors in the first half, only for the hosts to level five minutes later as Kobei Moore converted from the spot.

It left the Swans waiting on the result of the final group fixture between Brighton & Hove Albion and Hull City and, while the Seagulls secured a 4-1 win, they did not record the 10-goal swing needed to oust Anthony Wright's side from second spot in Group A.

The Swans handed Iestyn Jones a first start for the upper-age group after his debut as a substitute in Tuesday’s defeat against Charlton Athletic, whilst Kit Margetson returned between the sticks.

It was a fast start from the hosts, instantly charging down the right before Mitchell Bates and Richard Faakye blocked efforts on goal.

Bates was soon involved again but this time in the Villa half, nodding a ball into the area but it could not find another teal Swansea shirt, before the midfielder sent a delivery across the face of goal which was just beyond the oncoming Liam Smith.

Villa keeper Lander Emery was soon off his line to gather a cross-field pass from Ben Lloyd, while the Swans had shown some promising moments in the press from Smith and Congreve.

Jones then made a tremendous block in the area to send Omari Kellyman’s effort out for a corner.

But Congreve made no mistake after neat build-up, with Lloyd delivering for his teammate to turn in from just inside the penalty area for his fifth goal of the season.

However, the lead was shortlived as Moore converted from the spot after Kellyman was brought in the six-yard box.

The hosts began to threaten following the equaliser, and it took a  brilliant one-handed save from Margetson to keep out Moore’s diving header from a Villa set-piece.

In the second period, the Swans came close to retaking the lead when Maliq Cadogan was played through the centre of the park to race goalward, but Emery raced off of his line to intercept.

Margetson was called into action again down the other end and produced yet another fine one-handed save to keep out the threatening Moore's powerful strike from distance.

Cadogan went close twice within a matter of minutes after a clever pass found the striker free on the right, but his effort struck the woodwork.

The former Crystal Palace man was then found in a similar position moments later, but Emery was on hand to deny him.

There were some nervous moments leading up to the final whistle after Rory Wilson appealed for yet another penalty for the hosts, but the referee waved away any appeals as the spoils were shared.

 

Swansea City Under-21s: Kit Margetson, Josh Carey (Glory Nzingo 79), Kian Jenkins, Joel Cotterill (captain), Iestyn Jones, Richard Faakye, Mitchell Bates, Ben Lloyd, Maliq Cadogan (Aimar Govea 79), Cameron Congreve (Charlie Veevers 90), Liam Smith.

Substitutes: Ewan Griffiths, Yori Griffith.

 

Name
Remy Mitchell

DOB
20/01/2004

Position
Goalkeeper

Left Footed / Right Footed
Right

Nationality (according to UEFA)
British

Signed for the Swans
2022

Previous clubs
Arsenal

What is your best memory in a Swans shirt?
Saving the penalty that got us to the Nathaniel MG Cup final.

What is your favourite thing about Swansea?
I love the beaches, coming from London you don’t get much chance to go to the beach.

Who is your football idol?
Cristiano Ronaldo.

What is your favourite film?
Inception

Who is your favourite music artist?
Tame Impala

What is your cheat meal?
A burger from Five Guys.

What subject were you best at in school?
Geography

Football bucket list
Win the Premier League with Arsenal.

A stadium you’d love to visit (as player or fan)
Borussia Dortmund’s stadium, the Westfalenstadion.

Your first football memory
Going to watch Arsenal in a League Cup tie at the Emirates. It was the first game I ever went to.

First football shirt you owned
The maroon shirt Arsenal wore during their final season at Highbury (2005-06).

Other football position you played
I’ve always been a goalkeeper.

Are there any other sports you have played?
Cricket and tennis.

Preferred shirt number
I don’t really mind, but being a keeper you always like the number one.

Your roommate for away games
I usually room with the other keeper, but Ben Hughes is always good company!

Favourite computer game
EA FC.

Aim for the season?
Get as much game time as possible and hopefully gain experience in the senior environment.

Who is the most famous person you’ve met?
Pele

An interesting fact about you
I can pretty much name all the countries of the world by looking at their flags.

Swansea City Women earned a crucial south Wales derby victory over Cardiff City Women to end their opponent's long unbeaten run in the Genero Adran Premier and close the gap in the title race to five points.

The Swans dominated the opening 45 minutes and got their reward as a stunning long-range strike from Chloe Chivers broke the deadlock.

The hosts were improved after the break at Leckwith, but Katy Hosford would double Swansea's lead with 10 minutes remaining to end Cardiff's long run without defeat in the Welsh top-flight, which had stretched back over 18 months.

Seeking to respond after dropping points against Aberystwyth last time out, the Swans started off brightly. 

Chivers found space down the right before firing off a shot from a tight angle, which Cardiff keeper Ceryn Chamberlain push onto her post.

Swansea defender Jess Williams came close to an opener 10 minutes later, getting a head to Hosford’s corner but sending her glancing effort just wide.

The Swans continued to cause a threat from set-pieces, Chivers’ corner found Stacey John-Davis, who headed over the crossbar.

But the Swans would make their dominance count seven minutes before the break. Chivers picked up the ball some 35 yards from goal before hitting a stunning strike past Chamberlain to give her side a much-deserved lead.

The hosts came out of the blocks quickly in the second half,  but they didn’t cause too many problems for Chelsea Herbert in the Swansea goal.

Instead the visitors threatened again; Chivers tried her look from distance, but Chamberlain was this time equal to her effort.

The first real chance of the game for the hosts came 70 minutes in. Mikalya Cook cut inside onto her right foot and forced a good save from Herbert. The rebound would fall to Hannah Power in the box, but she was unable to get her effort on target.

The Bluebirds committed numbers forward and began to pile on pressure, but an excellent defensively display from Sophie Brisland-Hancocks and Williams kept the Cardiff forwards at bay.

That resilience got its reward with 10 minutes remaining as Swansea doubled their lead. Ellie Lake's cross to the back post found Hosford for the captain to tap home.

The goal put the seal on the derby-day win, as the Swans narrowed the gap between the sides as phase one of the Genero Adran Premier season drew to a close.

 

 

Cardiff City Women: Ceryn Chamberlain, Lisa Owen, Ffion Price, Hannah Power, Siobhan Walsh (captain), Megan Bowen, Seren Watkins, Kerry Walklett (Rhianne Oakley 60), Olivia Basham (Mikayla Cook 56), Hollie Smith, Tija Richardson (Madison Lloyd 78).

Unused subs: Anna Phelps, Grace Evans.

Swansea City Women: Chelsea Herbert, Lucy Finch, Ellie Lake, Rachel Cullen, Robyn Pinder (Emily Thomas 46), Chloe Chivers, Katy Hosford, Stacey John-Davis, Sammy Wynne, Sophie Brisland-Hancocks, Jess Williams.

Unused subs: Steph Turner, Monet Legall, Kelsey Thomas, Imogen Harris.

 

Name
Imogen Harris

Do you have a nickname?
Ims

Your date of birth
21/02/2006

Your nationality
Welsh 

What position do you play?
Centre midfield or striker

Which is your preferred foot?
Right footed

Which clubs did you play for before joining Swansea City?
Pontardawe Town, Rhos, Briton Ferry Llansawel, Cardiff City Women.

When did you sign for the Swans?
The 2022-23 season. 

What is your best moment in a Swansea City shirt?
My best moment would be making my first-team debut against TNS. 

What is your favourite thing about playing for Swansea City?
The passion and drive all my teammates have, as well as the amazing facilities and opportunities.

Who is your football idol?
Paul Scholes

What is the first position you played in football?
Right wing

What is your first memory of football (either watching or playing)?
My first memories would be watching my brother play every Saturday in the pouring rain and cold.

What is the first football shirt you owned?
A Manchester United 1998 home kit.

Do you have any pre-match rituals or superstitions?
I always put my right shin pad on first. 

What is your full-time occupation?
Student

Who is the most famous person you've met?
David Beckham

Do you play any other sports?
I play netball.

What is something that is on your bucket list?
Loads of things! I want to attempt an Ironman, walk up Pen y Fan and I’d like to go skydiving. 

What is your favourite film?
Enchanted  

Who is your favourite music artist?
Dave

What is the best TV series you've watched?
Friends

What is the best concert you've been to?
Coldplay 

What was your favourite subject in school?
PE

Swansea City 3 - 2 Leeds United
League One - December 29, 2007
 

 

The Swans came out on top in a classic encounter between two sides battling for League One promotion.

Roberto Martinez’s men were flying high at the top of the table and went ahead early on thanks to Andy Robinson’s free-kick, but Dennis Wise’s Leeds levelled thanks to a fine Jermaine Beckford goal.

Garry Monk then put the Swans back ahead with a header, before Ferrie Bodde was dismissed for a rash tackle on Jonny Howson.

Despite the numerical disadvantage, the 10 men extended their lead just before half-time through Jason Scotland.

Although Alan Thompson’s free-kick reduced the arrears at the start of the second period, the Swans held on for a thrilling victory.

 

Age
13

What was the first Swansea City game you attended?
Stade Rennes (pre-season friendly).

What is your favourite memory of watching the Swans?
Being at the Cardiff away game last season!

Who is your favourite Swans player and why?
Matt Grimes, because he always gives 100% and is good on the ball.

What do you like most about supporting Swansea City?
The atmosphere at games.

Why did you start supporting Swansea City?
My dad is a fan and he got me into it.

Do you play football? If yes, what position do you play?
Yes I play for Llandarcy and I'm a defender.

Do you play any other sports?
I do. I play rugby for Tonmawr.

What is an interesting fact about you?
I collect sports memorabilia.

What is your favourite subject in school and why?
P.E it's good to try other sports!

Chairman - Andy Coleman
Honorary Club President - Alan Curtis MBE

Directors

Jason Levien, Andy Coleman, Nigel Morris, Brett Cravatt, Jake Silverstein, Martin Morgan, Paul Meller (supporter director), Romie Chaudhari, Bobby Hernreich, Todd Marcelle, Gareth Davies.

Chief of Staff and Head of Strategy: Ken Gude

Associate Directors: Adam Lewis.

FIRST-TEAM STAFF

Head Coach - Luke Williams

Assistant Head Coach - Ryan Harley

Assistant Head Coach – Alan Sheehan

Head of Goalkeeping – Martyn Margetson

First Team Coach Analyst - George Lawtey

First Team Coach - Kris O'Leary

Head of Medical - Dr Jez McCluskey

Staff: Ailsa Jones, Bethany Chaddock, Matt Murray, Thomas Gittoes, Michael Eames, Shaun Baggridge, Shaun Howl, Jonathan Jones, Jono Aveston, Jake Dayus, Patrick Orme, Lewis Binns, Chris Watkins.

SENIOR MANAGEMENT GROUP

Paul Watson (Sporting Director); Andrew Davies (Head of Commercial, Operations, & Facilities);
Gareth Davies (CFO);
Josh Marsh (Head of Football Operations).

CLUB STAFF

Club Secretary: Ben Greenwood

Football Operations &
Administration Manager: Rebecca Gigg

Head of Commercial: Richard Morris

Head of Marketing: Katie Doyle

Head of Partnerships: Lee Merrells

Head of Hospitality, Events and Fan Engagement: Catherine Thomas

Head of Retail: Andrea Morris

Ticket Office Manager: Lewis Bullen

Head of Safeguarding: Rebeca Storer

HR Manager: Nicola Butt

Head of Media & Communications:
Ben Donovan

Head of Facilities: Gordon David

Grounds Manager: Evan Davies

Disability Access Officer: Catherine Thomas

Head of Swansea City AFC Foundation: Paul France

Club Ambassador: Lee Trundle

PROGRAMME PRODUCTION

Contributors: Andrew Gwilym, Hayley Ford, Sophie Davis, Rachael Tucker, Cerith White, Rhys Kemish, Dom Hynes, Sammy Wynne, Fraser Dickson, Ben Donovan, Ian Mitchelmore, Owen Morgan, Gwyn Rees, James Dow.

Designers: Callum Rothwell,
Jordan Morcom, Lewis Ward
Photography: Athena Picture Agency,
Natalie John-Davis, Alamy.