Swansea City v Barnsley – Play-Offs – 20-21 – Issue 26

Cadwch yn ddiogel Jacks

Issue 26 - Digital Copy

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Swansea City v Barnsley Saturday, May 22 - Kick-off 6.30pm

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CONTENTS Page 15 - Freddie’s Golden Glove

Page 16 - Meet the Opposition

Page 20 - Match Reports

Page 28 - Connor Roberts – 150 Matches for Swansea City

Page 46 - Century of League Football

Polite Warning: The British courts have now imposed a standard minimum three-year ban from all football grounds for football-related arrests – both inside and outside the ground. CCTV is currently in operation inside and outside the stadium, while police are also using handheld video cameras.

Offences include: obscene or racist chanting or gesturing; consuming alcohol in seated areas; continual standing in seated areas; aggressive behaviour; going onto the pitch; throwing of items; drunk and disorderly behaviour or under the influence of drugs. Please note there is also a no-smoking policy within the stadium. If broken, you could be ejected. Sales of goods inside and outside the stadium is prohibited unless via official registered sellers. The club badge is a registered trademark and unauthorised use of it will not be permitted. High-quality cameras are not permitted inside the stadium.

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CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES VISIT SWANSEACITY.COM

Chief Executive Julian Winter Board Of Directors Directors: Romie Chaudhari, Bobby Hernreich, Huw Jenkins, Jason Levien, Stuart McDonald, Martin Morgan, Gareth Davies, Julian Winter, Jake Silverstein, Sam Porter Honorary Club President: Alan Curtis; Associate Directors: David Morgan, Cath Dyer Team Management Head Coach: Steve Cooper Assistant Coach: Mike Marsh Behind the Team Goalkeeping Coach: Martyn Margetson Head of Medicine: Dr Jez McCluskey Head of Performance Analysis: Steve Rands Head of Recruitment: Andy Scott Academy Director: Mark Allen Staff: David Tivey, Ritson Lloyd, Alan Tate, Ailsa Jones, Matthew Murray, Adele Callaghan, Daniel Morris, Lee Watkins, Chris Watkins, Tom Jenkinson, Daniel Nisbett, Michael Eames, Shaun Baggridge, Huw Lake, Ashley Gill, Steffan Popham

Senior Management Group Andrew Davies (Head of Operations, Facilities & Development); Gareth Davies (CFO); Rebecca Edwards-Symmons (Head of Commercial) Club Staff Club Secretary: Ben Greenwood Assistant Football Secretary: Rebecca Gigg Head of Retail: Andrea Morris Head of Hospitality & Customer Services: Catherine Thomas Legal Counsel, Head of Safeguarding: Rebeca Storer HR Manager: Nicola Butt Senior Commercial Sponsorship Manager: Lee Merrells Commercial Marketing Manager: Katie Hughes Head of Media & Communications: Ben Donovan Media Manager: Chris Wilson-Barney Ticket Office Manager: Luke Hughes Operations & Events Manager: Matthew Daniel Facilities Manager: Gordon David Grounds Manager: Anthony Harry Disability Access Officer: Mark Phillips Community Trust Manager: Helen Elton Club Ambassador: Lee Trundle

Programme Production Contributors: Alex Bennett, Ben Donovan, Chris Wilson-Barney, Andrew Gwilym, Jonathan Davies, Sophie Davis, Julie Kissick, Alun Rhys Chivers, Adam Evans, Gwyn Rees, Ben Jones, Dylan James, Luke Evans, Rachael Tucker, Adam Lewis Designers: Callum Rothwell, Jordan Morcom Photography: Athena Picture Agency, Natalie Davis, PA, REX Print: DWJ Group Ltd Swansea City AFC Liberty Stadium, Landore, Swansea, SA10 2FA CP-D Dinas Abertawe Stadiwm Liberty, Landore, Abertawe, SA1 2FA Telephone/Ffôn: 01792 616400 Web/Gwe: swanseacity.com Email/E-bost: info@swanseacity.com

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Chief Executive’s Notes

JULIAN WINTER

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ood evening and welcome back to the Liberty Stadium for tonight’s Championship play-off semi-final second leg against Barnsley.

The football club has worked tirelessly behind the scenes in a short space of time to ensure your return to the Liberty will be a safe and enjoyable experience.

I’d also like to give a mention to the staff behind the scenes who have worked admirably in what has been a very difficult situation for everyone this season.

I want to start my programme notes by talking about how much the club is looking forward to welcoming supporters back inside the Liberty for tonight’s game.

I’d like to thank Andrew Davies, Matthew Daniel and Gordon David for helping to make today happen, as well as extending our appreciation to Swansea Council, and local agencies through our Safety Advisory Group (SAG) that have supported us in putting a plan to Welsh Government and securing a positive outcome.

The staff at Fairwood, Landore and at the Liberty Stadium have more than played their part in efforts leading into today’s game and across the season as a whole, while often working remotely, with the interests of the football club at the heart of everything they do.

It will be the first time since March 7 last year that we have been able to have supporters here, and it has been a long time coming.

There are, of course, many of you who weren’t successful in the ticket ballot but I know you will all have your moment back inside this stadium when the regulations and guidelines allow.

More pertinently, everyone at the club is aware that there are people who attended that game against West Brom on March 7, 2020, not knowing that it would be their last time watching the club they love.

The effects of the pandemic should never be underestimated, and we have sadly lost members of the Jack Army over the course of the last 14 months and our thoughts are with the friends and family of each and every one of them.

Please support us by respecting the protocols that are in place and following the guidance given by staff and stewards.

They deserve a great deal of credit during these difficult times, and I can’t stress how together the staff are from top to bottom in working towards what we all want to achieve.

Please remember to wear a face covering at all times and take care when shouting and singing. But above all, enjoy the game and get behind the players and staff.

Finally, I’d like to extend a warm welcome to the management, players, staff and directors from Barnsley who have made the long trip to south Wales for tonight’s game.

Tonight’s game is the second half in the tie, as we are all acutely aware, and there is so much still to play for.

The players put in a real shift at Oakwell on Monday night to give us a 1-0 advantage and it is set up for what we hope is a positive night on home soil.

It is our final home game of what has been a season like no other and, wherever you are watching in the world, get behind the boys and trust in them, Steve and his staff to make it a night to savour.

It has been a gruelling season in terms of the schedule and Steve, his coaching team, and the entire playing squad have performed consistently with a real resilience to put us in this position.

Enjoy the game,

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Head Coach’s Notes

STEVE COOPER G

ood evening, and at last I can say welcome back to the Liberty Stadium!

Not since March 2020 have we seen you at the Liberty and, on behalf of everyone at Swansea C i t y, w e ’ v e r e a l l y m i s s e d hearing your support!

Ever since that game against West B rom 14 months ago, we’ ve played games behind closed doors, and it has been a strange atmosphere without fans.

But now you’re back, and we’re s o h a p py t h at 3 , 0 0 0 J a c k s will be cheering us on tonight for what we hope will be a night to remember.

Our first leg against Barnsley saw us play in front of a few thousand home fans, and it made for a fantastic occasion.

Even though we didn’t have a single Jack in the crowd, it was great for the players to hear supporters again and also for supporters to experience the game in person.

One thing is for sure at our football club, and that is the understanding and realisation of how important supporters are to Swansea City, and vice versa.

Throughout this pandemic, we’ve tried our best to help supporters and the community in any way we can. ‘Our Club, Our City’ is not just a throwaway phrase - it means something, and we stand by it.

When we all stand side by side, this is a strong football club, community and city.

Having you behind us tonight means an awful lot to the players and staff.

It is something we’ve spoken a lot about this week, and it motivates us even more knowing 3,000 of you will be in the Liberty kicking and heading every ball.

We go into the game with a 1-0 lead thanks to Andre Ayew’s goal at Oakwell. The result was pleasing, and I think the effort and desire from the lads was there for all to see. It wasn’t a typical Swansea type of game, but to come away with a lead and a clean sheet was very pleasing.

That sets us up for tonight.

We’ ve been here before, of course. We’ve got experience from last year ’s play-offs, and I think we can use that this time around.

As this is my final programme notes of the season, I would just like to thank you for your support this season. Even though you’ve not been able to attend games until tonight, we’re well aware of the level of backing we have when you’re watching passionately from the safety of your homes.

We will do our best tonight to make sure you get the result you deserve – no matter if you’re at home or part of the Jack Army in attendance.

Enjoy the game,

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MATT GRIMES Captain’s Notes

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ood evening and welcome back to the Liberty Stadium for this evening’s Championship play-off semi-final second leg against Barnsley.

We are absolutely delighted to have members of the Jack Army back in the Liberty this evening. We had a taste of a stadium with fans at Oakwell on Monday and we cannot wait to experience the atmosphere with you, our supporters, cheering us on.

It’s crazy to think some of the lads haven’t experienced the Jack Army roar yet but, when they do, I know how special that feeling is going to be.

Hopefully it can give us a big boost to get us over the line.

Regardless of whether you’re in the st adium or watching from home, we know you’re all behind us and massively appreciate your support as always.

It was a great result at Oakwell on Monday evening in what proved to be a battling performance. We knew it was going to be a tough test and it was exactly what we had expected.

We had to dig in, show grit and all of the lads put a brilliant shift in to help us get the win and a clean sheet.

But it’s effectively only half-time and we have to be ready for the second leg. We want another big performance to take us over the line to Wembley and do everything we can for the club and the supporters. We need to do more and we’ll stay calm and be as prepared as possible.

I think I speak on behalf of all the boys when I say the overriding emotion is excitement. These are massive games so a little bit of nerves is always good.

It’s been a challenging season and the 46-game season builds you up into the final three games of the play-offs. We just want to put on a show in the next leg and hopefully the final after all of the hard work we’ve already put in this season.

Last year it was my first time in the play-offs and it was the same for a lot of the players. In some ways we knew what to expect but, in others, we didn’t. This year is different because we have got a lot of players who have been there and done it.

We have gone from strength to strength this season as a team. We have picked up more points, more clean sheets and have a better defensive record than we did last season, so from that point of view I do think we are better equipped this year.

The play-offs are huge games so experience of playing on a similar stage obviously helps.

It definitely holds us in good stead that so many of the lads experienced playing in the play-offs last year.

At the same time, you need to have your best game and you need some re al quality because Barnsley are a very tough opponent.

We have to be excited about the challenge and the opportunity, and we have to be at the top of our game.

Enjoy the game this evening!

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n our final programme page of the season, Swans Trust chair Andy Godden shares his thoughts on today’s game, and this season.

Firstly, can I just say it’s good to be back at the Liberty Stadium!

It’s a shame that only around 3,000 fans can attend today’s game, but we have to start somewhere, and it is at least a sign that things are starting to return to normal.

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the efforts of everyone involved, from the wonderful club staff who have worked so hard to enable this event to happen, the local and Welsh Government authorities for their support, and importantly also the fans for helping to make the process as smooth as possible. We know many more fans would love to be in attendance this evening, so it falls on all of us lucky enough to be here to represent those unable to attend, and be even louder in supporting the team as we aim to get to Wembley and back to the Premier League!

We find ourselves in a very positive position, having earned a hard-fought 1-0 win at Oakwell in the first leg.

In many ways it was a microcosm of our entire season, with our undoubted defensive solidity augmented by positive attacking play, all capped off by the genius that is Andre Ayew. When he cut onto his left foot we all expected him to curl it into the far corner, which only goes to show how highly we regard Andre and how important he’s been for us during both spells with the club.

No doubt Barnsley will redouble their efforts to try and turn the tie around, however, we have every confidence in Steve Cooper and the team, and that we will stand up to the challenge.

We should remember that the position we find ourselves in is a direct result of the hard work of so many people at our club. We cannot speak highly enough of the job Steve and his coaching team have done in earning two consecutive playoff places, which have been achieved in quite exceptional circumstances.

We can’t underestimate the challenges that we have faced with the shortened calendar, with games every three or four days for large chunks of the season. To maintain such a strong challenge, often up against teams with considerably bigger budgets, is an excellent achievement. Everyone at the club deserves to see their efforts rewarded with a return to the Premier League, and we have every confidence we will get there.

Finally, can I take the opportunity to thank so many of you for joining the Swans Trust this season. Our voice is only as strong as our membership, and by joining the trust you have helped us ensure the voice of the fans is heard loudly within our club. We continue to develop a very strong working relationship on the ground with the club’s management team, and that has proven extremely important over the last year in particular.

Through our regular communications, I hope you have seen all the good work we have done representing the interests of the fans, and we hope as many fans as possible will join or rejoin the trust when our 2021-22 membership opens in the summer.

Stay safe and best wishes.

Andy Godden, Chair: Swansea City Supporters’ Trust

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HELPING FAMILIES ENJOY FOOTBALL AT HOME The ‘homemade waste pipe goal’. Waste pipes, push-fit knuckle bends and some barrier fencing. It doesn’t seem like much, but sometimes it’s all you need to transform your garden into a proper footy pitch.

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GOLDEN GLOVE: WOODMAN BAGS CLEAN SHEET AWARD

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reddie Woodman believes his Sky Bet Championship Golden Glove award is purely down to a collective effort at Swansea City.

“It’s a massive team effort, and it’s an amazing achievement to keep 20 clean sheets in the Championship.

The goalkeeper, on loan from Newcastle United for a second season, was presented with his trophy after keeping the most clean sheets in the Championship this term.

“Keeping clean sheets gives the team a huge opportunity to win matches, and it put us in a great position in the league.”

Woodman kept 20 clean sheets during the regular campaign, which has seen the Swans qualify for the play-offs. An impressive figure between the sticks, the 24-year-old has again impressed during his second spell at the Liberty.

And Woodman was quick to share the accolade with his team-mates.

“I feel guilty for accepting it because many people look at clean sheets as down to the goalkeeper, but I know how hard the team has worked for clean sheets,” said Woodman.

“Every clean sheet we’ve had this season, after the game it’s always been a collective congratulations to everyone.

“While my name is on the award, it’s the team that has really won the award. Every player has played their part and should feel proud.

The Swans’ record of 24 league clean sheets came under Paulo Sousa during the 2009-10 season, with Dutchman Dorus de Vries also winning the division’s Golden Glove award.

And Woodman revealed Swans first-team coach Alan Tate, who featured alongside de Vries in that team, had been speaking to him about that record throughout the season.

“Tatey waits for us after games to see us off, and if we get a clean sheet then he’d say ‘one more down’,” added Woodman.

“He got 24 clean sheets during one season when Dorus de Vries was in goal, and we were making good progress for that this season, so I’d say ‘we’re going to beat the record’. We didn’t manage that, but it’s still a very good amount and it’s one we can be very proud of.”

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BARNSLEY

FACT FILE OWNER

BFC Investment

NICKNAME

The Tykes

@BarnsleyFC @barnsleyfc @BarnsleyFC

STADIUM OPENED CAPACITY Oakwell

1888

THE GAFFER

The Frenchman was appointed as Gerhard Struber’s successor on a three-year contract, and has superbly led Barnsley to the playoffs when many had tipped them for another battle with relegation.

During his playing career, Ismaël enjoyed spells with Strasbourg, Crystal Palace, Lens, Werder Bremen, Hannover 96 and Bayern Munich. The former centre-half has vast managerial experience, most notably leading Austrian side LASK to their first-ever Champions League play-off. Ismaël has also had stints in charge of Hannover 96, VfL Wolfsburg II, F.C. Nürnberg, VfL Wolfsburg and Apollon Smyrnis.

CLUB CAPTAIN Former Leeds United midfielder Mowatt joined the Reds in 2017, and was handed the captain’s armband after the departure of head coach Daniel Stendel last season.

The 26-year-old has been a stand-out performer for Barnsley, and his return from injury for the first leg was a big boost for the Reds.

Known for his work-rate and creativity, Mowatt went on to lead the Tykes to safety last year, picking up the Player and Players’ Player of the Year awards at the end of the campaign.

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FOUNDED

1887

TWITTER INSTAGRAM FACEBOOK

ALEX MOWATT VALÉRIEN ISMAËL

CLUB DETAILS SOCIAL MEDIA FACILITIES

23,287

STADIUM MEET THE OPPOSITION Barnsley have been absent from the Premier League since 1998. The Reds have spent most of their time since then dipping in and out of League One and the Championship, and pulled off an incredible escape from relegation last term. Barnsley’s highest finish in the Championship since the end of their stint in the Premier League was when they finished fourth in 1999-2000, losing 4-2 to Ipswich Town in the play-off final. They won the Football League Trophy in 2016.

BARNSLEY’S FORM Barnsley came into the play-offs on the back of two wins in their final five games – as well as a creditable 2-2 draw against champions Norwich City. The Tykes were 21st in the table when Valerien Ismael was appointed in October 2020 with only three points from their opening six games.

Since then the Frenchman guided the Yorkshire side to 74 points from 40 matches thereafter.

THE KEY MEN

Cauley Woodrow has been a consistent scorer for Barnsley ever since joining from Fulham, and it has proved the case again this term with the striker having 14 goals in all competitions, while also weighing in with five assists.

He has been well backed up by the exploits of January arrival Daryl Dike, who has scored nine goals in 19 appearances during his spell on loan from Orlando City.

Carlton Morris has caught the eye since his move from MK Dons, while Callum Brittain and Callum Styles have enjoyed excellent seasons.

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ONES TO WATCH

MICHAL HELIK

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Tall, commanding and a real threat in the air, Helik arrived in 2020 and has cemented himself in the starting 11 this season. The Pole is no stranger to success, helping KS Cracovia to their first ever Polish Cup triumph in his homeland before making the move to Yorkshire. Helik is a classic ‘nononsense’ defender and chips in with goals at the other end of the pitch, having struck six times in all competitions in his maiden season at Oakwell.

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Brittain has made 40 league appearances following his switch from MK Dons in October, and established himself as an integral part of Valérien Ismaël’s side.

He has played for England at under-20 level and is known for his attacking ability despite having a deeper role at right wingback. The 23-year-old is a menace down the flank, with his crossing ability offering a real threat to opposing defences.

CALLUM BRITTAIN

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DARYL DIKE The American international has proved a big hit for the Tykes following his loan move in February. Dike has struck nine times in 19 league games since joining from Orlando, while he made his senior international debut against Trinidad and Tobago. Football is certainly in the family - his eldest brother Bright was a Nigerian international who played for Portland Timbers and Toronto FC, while his sister Courtney was capped by Nigeria. He is also the cousin of former West Ham loanee Emmanuel Emenike.

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Arriving from Bury in 2018, Styles returned on loan immediately and had to wait until the run-in of the 2019-20 Championship campaign before he saw regular first-team action for Barnsley. He penned a new contract in the summer to extend his stay at Oakwell to 2023 and ended the regular season with four goals in 42 Championship appearances.

Styles can also play for Ukraine and Hungary via his grandparents’ heritage.

The striker is Barnsley ’s leading scorer this season with 14 in all competitions.

Woodrow started his career at non-league Luton before joining Fulham and gaining some Premier League experience while at Craven Cottage. Loan spells with Southend, Burton, Bristol City and Barnsley means he has featured in all four divisions. Joined Barnsley permanently in January 2 0 1 9 . W o n t h e To u l o n Tournament in 2016 with England Under-21s.

CALLUM STYLES

CAULEY WOODROW 19

SWANSEA CITY 2 DERBY COUNTY 1 MATCH DETAILS DATE: SATURDAY, MAY 1 VENUE: LIBERTY STADIUM REFEREE: DARREN BOND

Swans: Freddie Woodman; Connor Roberts, Ryan Bennett, Ben Cabango, Jake Bidwell (Ryan Manning 64); Korey Smith, Yan Dhanda (Jay Fulton 86), Matt Grimes (captain); Morgan Whittaker (Ollie Cooper 64), Liam Cullen, Jamal Lowe (Brandon Cooper 90).

MATCH REPORT T

Subs not used: Ben Hamer, Conor Hourihane, Wayne Routledge, Joel Latibeaudiere, Kyle Naughton.

wo goals in three second-half minutes saw Swansea City return to winning ways at the Liberty Stadium and increase Derby’s relegation concerns.

The Swans had trailed to a Tom Lawrence header with an hour gone in SA1, but turned the game around in the blink of an eye.

Morgan Whittaker headed home his first league goal for the Swans against the club he left in January to level matters, before Connor Roberts showed superb technique to volley home what proved to be the winner.

It gave Steve Cooper’s side a first home win since beating Middlesbrough on March 6, and left them fourth in the table on 80 points with one fixture remaining.

And the head coach would have been pleased with the character his much-changed side showed to fight back from a goal down against a side battling for Championship survival.

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LINEUPS Derby County: Kelle Roos; Nathan Byrne, George Edmundson, Matt Clarke, Craig Forsyth; Kamil Jozwiak (Patrick Roberts 70), Graeme Shinnie (captain), Jason Knight; Martyn Waghorn (Louie Sibley 80), Colin Kazim-Richards, Tom Lawrence.

Subs not used: David Marshall, Max Bird, Eiran Cashin, Lee Buchanan, Festy Ebosele, Kornell McDonald, Louie Watson.

QUOTE OF THE GAME “I JUST WANT TO KEEP ADDING MORE GOALS TO MY GAME. I’M REALLY HAPPY HERE, AND I HOPE THAT’S SHOWING IN MY APPEARANCES.” MORGAN WHITTAKER

WATFORD 2 SWANSEA CITY 0 MATCH DETAILS

LINEUPS

DATE: SATURDAY, MAY 8 VENUE: VICARAGE ROAD REFEREE: GEOFF ELTRINGHAM

Watford: Ben Foster; Marc Navarro, Craig Cathcart (captain), Christian Kabasele, Achraf Lazaar; Philip Zinckernagel (Will Hughes 65), Carlos Sanchez (Joao Pedro 65), Dan Gosling (Ben Wilmot 82); Isaac Success, Andre Gray (Troy Deeney 71), Ken Sema.

MATCH REPORT S

Subs not used: Daniel Bachmann, William TroostEkong, Stipe Perica, Francisco Sierralta.

wansea City fell to defeat in their final league game of the season as goals from Andre Gray and Isaac Success saw Steve Cooper’s side get no reward for a positive showing at Vicarage Road.

The Swans enjoyed the better of long periods of the contest with Andre Ayew, Liam Cullen, Matt Grimes and Jamal Lowe among those to have opportunities to get on the scoresheet.

But Gray ’s goal, the striker claiming it after a clearanc e ric ocheted in off him, put the Hornets ahead before Success sealed the win in emphatic fashion.

Despite the defeat, Swansea finished the season in fourth place, and prepared to take on Barnsley in the semi-finals of the play-offs after the Tykes finished fifth.

Swans: Freddie Woodman; Connor Roberts, Ryan Bennett, Marc Guhei, Jake Bidwell; Jay Fulton, Matt Grimes (captain) (Korey Smith 66), Conor Hourihane (Morgan Whittaker 77); Andre Ayew (Ollie Cooper 65), Liam Cullen (Wayne Routledge 66), Jamal Lowe (Yan Dhanda 66).

Subs not used: Ben Hamer, Ryan Manning, Joel Latibeaudiere, Kyle Naughton.

QUOTE OF THE GAME “IT WAS MAYBE NOT IDEAL IN TERMS OF GETTING THE RESULT, BUT THERE IS A BIGGER PICTURE AND, IN THE END, IT HAS NOT IMPACTED ON OUR LEAGUE POSITION AND WHO WE ARE PLAYING.”

STEVE COOPER

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BARNSLEY 0 SWANSEA CITY 1

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MATCH DETAILS DATE: MONDAY, MAY 17 VENUE: OAKWELL REFEREE: GEOFF ELTRINGHAM

MATCH REPORT S

wansea City secured a lead to take back to the Liberty Stadium after Andre Ayew’s superb strike settled the first leg of their play-off semi-final at Barnsley.

In a hard-fought contest of unrelenting commitment from both sides, it was a moment of quality from Swansea’s top scorer that proved the difference; Ayew firing home his 17th goal of the season with his left foot seven minutes before the break.

Steve Cooper’s side had to weather spells of heavy pressure from the Tykes after the break but, with the likes of Marc Guehi, Kyle Naughton, skipper Matt Grimes and Freddie Woodman outstanding defensively, they secured another clean sheet ahead of Saturday’s return leg in south Wales.

It further extended the Swans’ 15-year unbeaten record against Barnsley, and marked the third time this c ampaign they have beaten them without conceding.

Towards the end of a tight first half, Ayew struck the decisive blow as he latched on to Naughton’s pass and drove infield before curling the ball into the far corner of the net.

B arnsley pressed for an equaliser after the break, but Woodman made fine stops to deny Carlton Morris and Callum Brittain from the hosts’ best opportunities.

LINEUPS Barnsley: Brad Collins; Toby Sibbick, Mads Andersen, Michal Helik; Callum Brittain, Romal Palmer (Jordan Williams 78), Alex Mowatt (captain), Callum Styles; Dominik Frieser (Carlton Morris 46), Cauley Woodrow, Daryl Dike (Victor Adeboyejo 88).

Subs not used: Jack Walton, Liam Kitching, Conor Chaplin, Aapo Halme, Michael Sollbauer, Jasper Moon.

Swans: Freddie Woodman; Kyle Naughton, Ben Cabango, Marc Guehi, Jake Bidwell; Jay Fulton, Matt Grimes (captain), Conor Hourihane; Andre Ayew, Liam Cullen (Wayne Routledge 69), Jamal Lowe.

Subs not used: Ben Hamer, Joel Latibueadiere, Ryan Bennett, Connor Roberts, Ryan Manning, Korey Smith, Yan Dhanda, Morgan Whittaker.

QUOTE OF THE GAME “I WAS PLEASED WITH THE EFFORT, BUT WE HAVE BEEN HERE BEFORE AND WE WANT TO FINISH THE JOB.” STEVE COOPER

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STILETTOS & STUDS

BY JULIE KISSICK

J

acks, how are we all feeling ahead of the second half of the biggest game of the season so far ?! I’m writing this on the morning after the night before and it is safe to say, I’ve had very little sleep!

That was some first leg game, wasn’t it? Not the prettiest football, but a proper nail-biter nonetheless and one we deserved to win.

I felt as though my heart was going to burst through my chest at the end of that match at Oakwell. I don’t know how the Barnsley fans in the stadium managed to stay in their seats. I was pacing like a caged lion for 90-plus minutes.

But what a great result to be able to bring a win back to the Liberty Stadium and how wonderful to see the fans back. I can only imagine how exciting the anticipation, the journey to the ground and the game itself was for those fans who were lucky enough to get seats at Oakwell.

The atmosphere sounded superb considering there were only a few thousand Reds in situ and how inspiring that, despite the hostility of playing in a stadium which housed only home supporters, we got the job done.

We won! (I’m grinning from ear to ear typing this, can you tell?!) And we did it thanks to another touch of class from the man who appears to be able to conjure them up like a magician.

Andre Ayew produced the stand-out moment of the match and the only goal, curling the ball into the net to leave Brad Collins with no chance. He’s

the man for the solo performances and the big moments, Andre.

And what a game Freddie Woodman had too. It isn’t often a goalkeeper gets man-of-the-match, but he was my pick - he was superb. Having missed out on the play-offs last season due to injury he certainly made his presence felt on Monday night and he’ll want to do the same in front of the 3,000 fans present at the Liberty Stadium tonight.

Barnsley boss Valerien Ismael said in his postmatch press conference that the pressure in the return leg will be on us and he referenced the Leeds v Derby decider of a couple of years ago where Leeds won 1-0 at Derby and ‘everyone thought Leeds would go through’ with another win at home, but they didn’t.

And that’s one of the many reasons we love football, isn’t it? The unpredictable nature of the beautiful game means that taking anything for granted is not a move made by the wise and we have to believe that Steve Cooper and his coaching staff will have done enough with the players this week to ensure that they know that and are able to produce another solid display and an all-important victory.

The prospect of not getting to Wembley this time around is too difficult to comprehend, but we’re only at half-time with another 90 minutes to play.

Let’s raise the roof Jacks. Bring. It. On! Come on you Swans!

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Requires Sky TV. Complete Sky Sports: £25 extra a month with a new 18 month contract. After 18 months, the then current price of Sky Sports Complete Pack will apply (currently £32pm without a contract, with 31 days notice required to cancel). New customers: Sky Signature required from £25 a month with an 18-month minimum term, standard price will apply outside minimum term (currently £31pm without a contract). Prices may change in this period. General: UK Channel Islands and Isle of Man residential customers only. Information correct as of 15 April 2021. Further terms apply.

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Requires Sky TV. Complete Sky Sports: £25 extra a month with a new 18 month contract. After 18 months, the then current price of Sky Sports Complete Pack will apply (currently £32pm without a contract, with 31 days notice required to cancel). New customers: Sky Signature required from £25 a month with an 18-month minimum term, standard price will apply outside minimum term (currently £31pm without a contract). Prices may change in this period. General: UK Channel Islands and Isle of Man residential customers only. Information correct as of 15 April 2021. Further terms apply.

ERTHYGLAU CYMRAEG

BY ALUN RHYS CHIVERS, GOLWG

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m y tro cynta’ y tymor hwn, croeso i Stadiwm Liberty! Mae Steve Cooper wedi dweud droeon dros y 14 mis diwetha’ pa mor bwysig fyddai cael cefnogwyr yn eu seddi unwaith eto. Roedd hi’n braf profi awyrgylch torf go iawn yn Oakwell, a dw i’n siŵr y bydd y ‘Jack Army’ yn creu awyrgylch parti go fawr ar gyfer yr ail gymal.

arall yn y Bencampwriaeth. A gellid maddau i unrhyw un am anghofio mai dim ond 24 oed yw Freddie Woodman yn y gôl, ac yntau wedi ennill gwobr y Faneg Aur am y nifer fwyaf o lechi glân (20) yn yr adran – dim ond tîm Watford (23) sydd â mwy na’r Elyrch ond mae’r rheiny wedi’u rhannu rhwng Daniel Bachmann (13) a Ben Foster (10).

Yr un yw’r fantais o ran goliau ar ddiwedd y cymal cyntaf y tro hwn â’r tymor diwetha’ dros Brentford, ond y gwahaniaeth yw fod y yr ail gymal gartre’ ac nid oddi cartre’ y tro hwn. Fe allai’r fantais honno wneud gwahaniaeth mawr mewn gêm sy’n debygol o fod yn un agos unwaith eto ac nid, gobeithio, yn un debyg i’r ail gymal y tymor diwetha’ pan redodd ‘BMW’ Brentford i ffwrdd â hi o 3-1.

Fe allai nifer sylweddol o chwaraewyr yr Elyrch brofodd y siom yn erbyn Brentford ddeg mis yn ôl chwarae yn yr ail gymal. Ond bydd Steve Cooper yn awyddus iddyn nhw anghofio’r gêm honno wrth iddyn nhw geisio mynd gam ymhellach y tro hwn a chyrraedd Wembley. Thâl hi ddim i edrych yn ôl yn ormodol ac mae’n siŵr mai un gêm ar y tro fydd neges y rheolwr o hyd.

Roedd yr hanner cynta’ yn Oakwell nos Lun yn un digon di-fflach ar y cyfan, cyn i Andre Ayew – ie, fe eto! – ddangos ei ddoniau, troi ar ei sawdl tua’r cwrt cosbi ac anelu chwip o ergyd ar draws a heibio’r golwr i hawlio’i ail gôl ar bymtheg y tymor hwn.

Ond mae’r Elyrch ddwy gêm i ffwrdd o gyrraedd yr uchelfannau unwaith eto. Byddai’r ail gymal a’r ffeinal yn gemau enfawr ar ddiwedd unrhyw dymor, ond cofiwch mai’r tymor hwn yw’r tymor olaf o daliadau parasiwt, felly mae llawer mwy ar gael na dim ond lle yn yr Uwch Gynghrair.

Roedd Steve Cooper yn sôn wrth y wasg ar ddiwedd y noson pa mor emosiynol fyddai’r gêm yn y Liberty, ac mai’r allwedd i lwyddo yn yr ail gymal yw gwybod sut i fanteisio ar yr emosiwn a’i droi’n sbardun. Mae e’n hollol ymwybodol y gallai methu â rheoli’r emosiwn arwain at ddagrau yn y pen draw.

Fe fyddai hefyd yn wobr deilwng am ddau dymor o waith caled gan Steve Cooper a’i dîm o dan amgylchiadau eithriadol o anodd. Perfformiad fel y cymal cynta’ fydd ei angen unwaith eto yn y Liberty, stadiwm lle nad yw rhai o’r chwaraewyr wedi chwarae gerbron torf eto.

Ond rhaid dweud bod gwylio’r Elyrch y tymor hwn fel gwylio bechgyn yn cyrraedd oed yr addewid.

Mae’r bartneriaeth rhwng Ben Cabango a Marc Guehi, dau chwaraewr ugain oed yng nghanol yr amddiffyn, mor gadarn ag unrhyw bartneriaeth

Mae’r gemau ail gyfle bob amser yn hynod gyst adleuol, ac fe all y dorf chwarae rhan hollbwysig. Mwynhewch y gêm gynta ’nôl yn y Liberty, gan obeithio am daith i Wembley yn fuan!

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CONNOR ROBERTS

150 GAMES AT SWANSEA CITY Age: 25 Role: Right Back Nationality: Welsh Teams: Swansea City, 150 Games, 11 Goals Yeovil (Loan), 54 Games Bristol Rovers (Loan), 5 Games Middlesbrough (Loan), 4 Games International Team: Wales, 25 Games, 1 Goal

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TEN YEARS AGO, A 15-YEAR-OLD CONNOR ROBERTS WAS TWEETING SWANSEA CITY’S STAR MEN GOOD LUCK AS THEY WENT INTO THE BIGGEST GAME OF THEIR CAREERS. FAST FORWARD TO THE PRESENT DAY, AND ROBERTS IS ON THE END OF THE MESSAGES OF SUPPORT.

Roberts, from Neath, grew up a Swans fan and was a mascot at the Vetch and a season ticket holder at the Liberty.

Dreaming of emulating his heroes and getting the opportunity to play just once for the Swans, he has now matched an appearance record set by one of those players he used to idolise.

Roberts’ appearance against Watford in the final regular fixture of the Championship campaign now puts him on 150 in a Swans shirt – the same made by Wales team-mate Joe Allen during his time at the Liberty.

Roberts sits alongside Allen at the top of the list when it comes to first-team appearances made by a homegrown graduate of the Swans’ academy.

Safe to say, it is something that means a lot to the 25-year-old.

“I didn’t think I’d get to play one game for Swansea, let alone 150,” said Roberts.

“So to get here is unbelievable. When I got to 100, I looked at the record number made by an academy player, and I saw it was Joe Allen with 150. It means a lot to me, because Joe is an unbelievable player and did really well here.

“To reach 150 in a short space of time is a big achievement.”

Roberts’ stamina and energetic displays down Swansea’s right flank have played a pivotal role in the team’s success this season.

He’s operated at right-back, right wing-back and right-wing this term, with the versatile Roberts scoring five goals in the meantime, while contributing seven assists.

Whether it’s been playing his part in a stonewall defence that claimed a league-best 20 clean sheets this term, or providing support for the attack and unleashing some trademark long throws, Roberts has done it consistently throughout the campaign.

He is a player that runs an average of 12km a game, which an opposing player will do well to beat. He is a player that his boss Steve Cooper has referred to as “a ridiculous athlete”.

And, as he explains, he won’t allow his preparations off the pitch to let him down as he puts in the “basic requirements”.

CONTINUES ON NEXT PAGE...

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“Ever since I was a young boy I played a lot of sports.

My fitness comes from that, I don’t drink alcohol either. A lot of people don’t understand that, but it’s never interested me. Why would I want to have a drink when I’ve never tried it before?

“Of course, I do enjoy myself in other ways. I don’t eat perfectly – I’ll have the odd treat here and there – but as long as I work hard and give 100 per cent in every game I play, then I’m running 12km a week if we have just the one game.

“For me, I think running up and down the pitch is one of the basic requirements of a footballer. I don’t particularly see it as a skill, but it’s something I can do so I’ll do it all day long for the team.

“I want to help in other ways too, so if it’s defending or attacking, a set-piece – whatever it is, I want to help as much as I can.

“I’ll play whenever I get asked too, even if I am a bit tired. If we played one day, and for whatever reason I’m asked to play the next day, then I would. It’s no secret I enjoy playing games a lot more than I do training!”

Roberts’ path has been on an upward trajectory ever since he has handed his debut against Wolves in the FA Cup in January 2018 by Carlos Carvalhal.

Following a first taste of senior football with Yeovil in League Two, which saw Roberts claim a number of club trophies, there were less successful loan spells at Bristol Rovers and Middlesbrough.

Recalled from the Riverside by Carvalhal, Roberts finally made his debut for the club he supported as a boy, along with being a season ticket holder, in the famous old competition at Molineux.

He went on to gain Premier League experience as the club’s seven-year spell in the top-flight came to an end.

Since then, he’s been a vital cog in the machine as the Swans continue to plot their own journey back to the promised land.

“There were numerous occasions during my time coming through the academy, and when I was out on loan, when I wondered whether I’d ever be good enough to wear the Swansea jersey and play for my club,” says Roberts.

“Since I made my debut in the FA Cup against Wolves, it has been a rollercoaster with relegation, some good performances and some bad ones, along with a playoff semi-final.

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“A little while ago, I went through my Twitter account and I was messaging Scott Sinclair and a few of the squad before the play-off final in 2011. I said good luck and told them we were all behind them.

“Now I’m in a similar position now and people are tweeting me or wishing me luck when they see me out and about with my missus.

“I found a photo of myself the other day when I was a mascot at the Vetch. It almost brought a tear to my eye because I thought ‘that boy there is achieving his dream.’

“The more memories I can create in a Swansea shirt the better.”

R ober t s is hoping to add more memorable moments as the Swans face Barnsley in the Championship play-off semi-finals.

Cooper’s side headed to Oakwell on Monday to set up tonight’s mouth-watering return leg at the Liberty, with the Jack Army finally back inside the stadium cheering on Roberts and co.

For Rober t s, a return to the promised land of the Premier League would be his greatest achievement in a Swansea shirt.

But, as he quickly points out, all focus is solely on Barnsley.

“Ever since I’ ve played football, I’ ve always wanted the opportunity to prove I can play and that I’m half-decent,” adds a modest Roberts.

“This is another opportunity to do that.

“As a team, we will try our best and give absolutely everything. That’s all Swansea fans expect of you – I know that because I’m from here, and I was one of those fans in the crowd. I know what it means to people here.

“To get promoted with Swansea City is a dream of mine. If we can do that, it would be unbelievable.

“But there’s a lot of hard work to be done before we can even think about that. Hopefully with the crowd behind us at the Liberty, which will be an amazing feeling hearing them sing away, we can get to the final.”

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BACK A JACK WINNER: BEN JONES

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pril’s Back a Jack winner was lifelong Swansea City fan Ben Jones, who has been integral to lifting the spirits of his family and friends and wider community.

Ben has conducted bi-weekly quizzes with themes around VE Day, St David’s Day and of course, Swansea City. The purpose of the quiz was to stay connected and to provide a positive focus for those taking part.

The focus has been to help those around him with their mental health in what has been a difficult period for all.

“The main reason for the quizzes were to keep in touch, but it gave everyone a chance to relax, which was especially important in the first lockdown as with all the distressing and alarming news everywhere, it was good to have an escape,” said Ben. Ben was previously part of the Royal Military Police and has a history with Swansea City stretching back to his childhood. Ben was a ball boy at the Vetch, and later volunteered to make teas and coffees for the journalists present.

Whilst a ball boy for an FAW Premier Cup match at the Vetch, Ben once pre-emptively picked up the ball whilst it was still in play. and he still remembers Alan Curtis shouting at him in jest from the North Bank. It’s a tale Ben still gets teased about by friends and family many years later. The Back a Jack competition has been well-received during the 2020-21 season and any details on plans to continue the initiative will be communicated in due course. Swansea City would like to thank Peter Lynn & Partners for their sponsorship of the community scheme.

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JACK THE LAD O

ve r t h e p a s t c o u p l e o f weeks, social media and the media in general have been celebrating a number of Swansea City promotions.

The main focus was the 40th anniversary of that unforgettable May afternoon way back in 1981 at Preston when the Swans won promotion to the top flight for the first time in the club’s long and proud history.

W i t h a f i l m c u r re nt l y b e i n g put together documenting the Swans’ rise under playermanager John Toshack, other promotions from that era have also been highlighted.

Followers of the Tosh: A Feature Documentary Twitter account will have been revelling in old photographs, newspaper cuttings and even snippets of flickering film from the late 1970s and early 1980s.

Fans of a certain age like me have delighted in snaps and match repor t s from the 2-0 win over Halifax at the Vetch in 1978 that clinched promotion from the old Fourth Division.

Then there was that legendary night in 1979 when a late t o w e r i n g To s h a c k h e a d e r sealed a 2-1 win over Chesterfield which took us into the second tier.

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And the aforementioned 3-1 win over P reston North End which made the dreams of all Swansea City fans finally come true. The Swans were in the First Division.

Now I’m sure there are a lot of younger Swans fans who get fed up of old fogies like me banging on about the exploits of Toshack’s team.

But I was 13 years old when I first saw the Swans play in March 1978 - I watched those sides lift the Swans from the old Fourth Division to the First Division within a handful of thrilling seasons.

The likes of Toshack himself, Wyndham Evans, Jeremy Charles, Nigel Stevenson, Robbie James and Alan Curtis, to name just a few, were my schoolboy heroes.

And they didn’t just get to the First Division, they topped it, looking down on the giants of English football.

S o I hope you’ll indulge my reminiscences, but even I am aware they may become boring for some.

And what about today’s players? I’m sure they must get fed up of hearing about the glories of the past from people like me.

Whether those are the s u c c e s s e s u n d e r To s h a c k back in the day or the more recent triumphs under the likes of Roberto Martinez, Brendan Rodgers and Michael Laudrup as the Swans reached, and thrived, in the Premier League.

They must also be reminded by the walls of the Liberty Stadium, which are dotted with photographs of the likes of Curtis, Leighton James, Bob Latchford, Leon Britton, Garry M o n k , W i l f r i e d B o n y, G y l f i Sigurdsson et al.

Well my message to the current Swansea City players is: go out there and shut up old fogies like me! Make sure your pictures will be hung in celebration of top-flight glories.

Go and make your own history.

Yo u h a v e t h e c h a n c e t o g o and write your own names in Swansea City folklore.

In 40 or 50 years, your names will be mentioned in the same b r e at h a s t h e l i ke s of A l a n Waddle, Dzemal Hadziabdic, Tommy Craig, Leighton James, John Mahoney, L ee Trundle, Alan Tate, Scott Sinclair and Nathan Dyer.

S everal of you have already contributed significant chapters to the Swansea City story over the past few seasons.

But promotion back to the Premier League would ensure you write yourselves a chapter of your very own in the club’s history.

And what would it mean for the likes of Connor Roberts, Ben Cabango and Liam Cullen t o h e l p t h e S wa n s i n t o t h e Premier League?

The Holy Trinity of Curtis, Charles and Robbie James might have some competition in the local hero stakes if the Swans go up this season.

Or Rodgers leading them into the promised land less than 10 years after battling for Football League survival in that make or break last day of the season match with Hull.

There may not have been a rise from the bottom of the pile this time around.

B u t w h e n yo u c o n s i d e r t h e financial constraints the club has been under since relegation from the Premier League and the particular challenges Covid-19 has posed all clubs this season, this set of players deserve all the plaudits of their predecessors if they secure promotion.

Each time the Swans have reached the top flight, there has been a special back story with the club battling against adversity to reach the top.

Don’t forget, if they manage to go up, they will have done it without the backing of the best band of supporters in the country - the mighty Jack Army!

Whether it was the Toshackinspired meteoric rise from Fourth to First just a few years after the Swans having to suffer the indignity of applying for re-election.

No other set of players in the history of this football club has ever had to go out and play under that kind of handicap week in week out!

And on the subject of s u p p o r t , h e r e’ s a m e s s a g e for the lucky 3,000 who will be scattered around the Liberty Stadium tonight.

You may be few in numbers, but make sure you create the kind of atmosphere that will bring back memories of the biggest Vetch Field showdowns and packed Liberty Stadium o c c a s i o n s l i ke t h e p l a y - o ff second leg against Nottingham Forest a decade ago.

So come on boys. Go out there tonight and send us to Wembley and a massive step towards consigning Curtis and co along with Brendan’s boys that little bit further back into history.

This is your time now. Win the club’s place back in the Premier League and earn your place in the hearts and memories of Swansea City fans forever.

C’mon you Swans!

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SWANSEA CITY’S CLASSIC

PLAY-OFF ENCOUNTERS For the eighth time since their introduction in 1986, Swansea City are looking forward to a play-off campaign having secured their berth in the Championship semi-finals.

The Swans have experienced their own mixture of joy and heartache in a format that has provided so many memorable moments over the last 35 years.

Here, we look back at some of the Swans finest play-off moments...

Torquay United 3 Swans 3 Division Four play-off final, second leg May 25, 1988

Swans 3 Chester City 0 Division Three play-off semi-final, second leg May 14, 1997

Swansea had claimed a play-off place in the second year of the new post-season competition under Terry Yorath.

The Swans surged into the Division Three play-off final with an emphatic win over Chester at The Vetch.

They had beaten Rotherham in the semi-finals, and headed to Plainmoor with a 2-1 advantage from the first leg of the then two-legged final against Torquay.

The visitors looked to be cruising when a Paul Raynor goal was quickly followed by a Sean McCarthy penalty inside half an hour.

But Torquay, inspired by soon-to-be Manchester United winger Lee Sharpe, hit back through a brace from Scottish defender Jim McNichol.

Alan Davies restored Swansea’s advantage on the night right on half-time, only for David Caldwell to hit back and set up a nervy finale.

But Swansea held on to get the job done.

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After a goalless first leg, Jan Molby’s side were wellplaced and they took full advantage with a clinical display in front of goal.

Chester’s cause was not helped by a red card for Chris Priest, but the Swans’ always looked in control.

Dai Thomas put them ahead six minutes before the break, with Steve Torpey doubling their advantage before the half-time whistle sounded.

Carl Heggs added a third just past the hour mark to seal the win.

However, there would be Wembley disappointment for Molby’s men as a late John Frain free-kick condemned them to defeat to Northampton.

Swans 3 Nottingham Forest 1 Championship play-off semi-final, second leg May 16, 2011 This contest ranks right up there with the most thrilling encounters played out at the Liberty Stadium.

Brentford 0 Swans 2 League One play-off semi-final, second leg May 14, 2006 Leon Knight scored twice as the Swans secured their place in the League One play-off final thanks to victory at Griffin Park.

Kenny Jackett’s men looked to be in a bit of trouble after drawing the first leg of the semi-final 1-1 at the Liberty.

But Knight put the Swans ahead in the tie inside 10 minutes in West London, as he lifted the ball over Brentford goalkeeper Stuart Nelson from 20 yards out.

The striker quickly added his second goal, racing onto a pass from Leon Britton before powering home to make it 2-0.

Rory Fallon had a great chance to make it 3-0 but his headed effort flew off target.

Goalkeeper Willy Gueret was on top form for the visitors, making a series of spectacular saves to ensure a second trip to the Millennium Stadium following the Swans’ Football League Trophy success.

The stakes could not have been higher when the Swans and Forest met in May of 2011.

Four days earlier, the first leg had ended 0-0 at the City Ground despite Neil Taylor’s second-minute red card.

After a supreme effort in that game, the Swans returned home and finished the job on a pulsating night in SA1.

Leon Britton put the hosts ahead with a stunning finish on 28 minutes – it proved to be his last goal in professional football – before Stephen Dobbie quickly doubled the advantage.

But Forest fought back in the second half, and put the cat amongst the pigeons when Robert Earnshaw made it 2-1 on 80 minutes.

Anxiety reigned at the Liberty as Forest won a stoppagetime corner, with keeper Lee Camp coming forward as the visitors attempted to save their season.

But when the set-piece was cleared to Darren Pratley, he raced forward before steering the ball into the empty Forest net from just inside his own half.

Brendan Rodgers memorably raced down the touchline in celebration as the Jack Army erupted

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Swans 4 Reading 2 Championship play-off final – May 30, 2011

Dobbie got in on the act with a fine finish five minutes before the break, but the contest was far from over.

Swansea City sealed promotion to the top-flight for only the second time in their history with a thrilling victory over Reading.

Joe Allen headed into his own net early in the second half to give Reading hope, then Matt Mills’ powerful header made it 3-2 on 57 minutes.

Scott Sinclair scored a hat-trick at Wembley as the Swans ended their 28-year wait for a return to the top tier of English football.

The Swans were wobbling, and it needed a brilliant Garry Monk block to deny Noel Hunt an equaliser.

The Swans took the lead in the 21st minute thanks to Sinclair’s penalty after Nathan Dyer had been tripped in the box. It was 2-0 just a minute later, with Sinclair netting at the far post after Adam Federici parried Stephen Dobbie’s cross.

But with 10 minutes remaining, Andy Griffin fouled Fabio Borini in the box and Sinclair completed his hattrick from the spot to secure the Swans’ place in the Premier League.

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WOODMAN NAMED COMMUNITY CHAMPION BY COMMUNITY TRUST

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reddie Woodman has been named Swansea City’s PFA Community Champion for the 2020-21 season by the club’s Community Trust.

The goalkeeper, who is currently on loan from Newcastle, was presented with the award, which recognises his support for the local community over the past year.

Woodman joins the likes of Joe Rodon and Connor Roberts on the list of players to have received the accolade.

Although the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic and local lockdown restrictions meant that external community visits were limited this term, the 24-year-old ensured he did his bit by getting involved in several virtual activities.

Passionate on the topic of knife crime having grown up in Croydon – an area with one of the highest crime rates across the English capital – London-born Woodman was the star guest at a special awareness workshop with young participants from our online Premier League Kicks programme back in November.

He spoke articulately about his experiences of growing up in Croydon, where he knew of many people affected by knife crime, and how football prevented him from potentially going down a different path.

Woodman was also part of the Trust’s campaign video to promote World Mental Health Day; joining Jamal Lowe and Swansea City Ladies striker Stacey John-Davis in delivering important messages that appeared on the club’s website and across the social media channels.

He then partook in Zoom calls with participants from our Premier League Kicks Targeted initiative; helping lift the spirits of those who had been struggling with their mental health during these difficult times.

“I’m delighted to be nominated for the award,” said Woodman, who was also recently awarded the Championship Golden Glove accolade after keeping 20 clean sheets this term.

“A lot of people have done some good stuff for the community, so I’m really happy.

“It’s so important to do your bit for the community and give back to all the people that come and support you at the Liberty.

“Mental health and knife crime are two very important topics and I’m really happy to play my part in letting the community know about them.

“The main point is to educate the next generation and hopefully, they can gain awareness and it will make the whole community a safer place. That’s got to be the end goal.”

Tom Williams, head of programmes at the Trust, added: “It’s been fantastic to have Freddie involved in our virtual activities over the past season.

“Having a high-profile player speak with such passion and authenticity on important topics such as knife crime was really powerful and impactful.

“Freddie was able to relate these topics to his own personal experiences which kept young people were fully engaged, ensuring those important messages really struck home.”

John Hudson, director of corporate social responsibility at the PFA, said: “The PFA has been immensely proud of the outstanding efforts of players during a very difficult season.

“We feel they should be recognised for their support and involvement in the local community.

“The award will hopefully raise awareness of the importance many of our members attach to their roles off the pitch and highlight their commitment to support those most in need during the crisis.”

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SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY U23S 1 SWANSEA CITY U23S 1 MATCH DETAILS LINEUPS DATE: MONDAY, MAY 10 VENUE: MIDDLEWOOD

Swans U23s: Lewis Webb, Ryan Bevan, Jacob Jones (Ben Lloyd, 60), Trialist, Harry Hines, Scott Butler, Bradley Gibbings (Rio Campbell, 86), Daniel Williams (capt), Ali Al-Hamadi (Cameron Congreve, 80), Lincoln McFayden, Trialist.

MATCH REPORT QUOTE OF THE GAME S “WE’VE FINISHED THE Subs not used: Jamie Searle, Ryan Bassett.

wansea City Under-23s ended their Professional Development League season with a draw against Sheffield Wednesday at the Owls’ training ground.

Kris O’Leary’s side had taken a first-half lead through Ali Al-Hamadi’s ninth goal of the season, but Liam Waldock struck after the break to ensure both sides shared the spoils.

The game was the Swans’ third away trip in six days, with a victory at PDL 2 North champions Sheffield United and a draw against Colchester preceding the stalemate with the Owls.

The result means the Swans, who handed a debut to recent signing Lincoln McFayden after he was given EFL dispensation to play, end the season on 26 points and a six-match unbeaten run.

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SEASON HAVING LOST JUST ONCE IN THE LAST 11 GAMES, AND THAT’S A POSITIVE SIGN. LIKE I SAID, THE NEXT STEP IS TURNING THOSE DRAWS INTO WINS.” KRIS O’LEARY

DATE: TUESDAY, MAY 11 VENUE: LANDORE

SWANSEA CITY U18S 0 BIRMINGHAM CITY U18S 3 MATCH REPORT S

Swans U18s: Tyler Evans; Daniel Watts, Panashe Makokowe, Ryan Bassett, Cian Williams; Joel Cotterill, Cameron Congreve (capt), Adnaan Moti (Jada Mawongo, ht); Aaron Hillier, Iwan Morgan (Geoff Bony, 77), Rio Campbell (Sebastian Dabrowski, 77).

The hosts looked to respond before the break. Cameron Congreve’s through ball almost released Moti on goal, while Cian Williams dragged a low shot narrowly wide.

wansea City Under-18s’ Professional Development League season ended with defeat by in-form Birmingham City at Landore.

The Blues arrived in South Wales on a five-match unbeaten streak, and they continued their strong run thanks to goals from Kieran Wakefield, Jordan James and Rico Patterson.

Byron Anthony made three changes from the young Swans’ 3-1 win over Crewe Alexandra the previous Saturday.

Tyler Evans replaced Alex Rutter in goal, while there were also recalls for Iwan Morgan and Adnaan Moti.

But they fell behind after just 14 minutes at Landore when Wakefield raced away from the defence, before sliding a low shot past Evans.

Evans came to the Swans’ rescue as the visitors almost doubled their lead within a minute, saving well after a neat one-two saw Harry Manton get in behind the defence.

But the goalkeeper was powerless in the 27th minute when a low cross was turned in by James.

However, they fell further behind seven minutes after the restart as Patterson fired home from the penalty spot after Panashe Makokowe was penalised.

Patterson and Wakefield went close to extending Birmingham’s advantage later on while, at the other end, Morgan shot straight at Bradley Mayo.

QUOTE OF THE GAME “I THOUGHT WE WERE A LITTLE BIT FLAT IN THE FIRST HALF AND LARGE PARTS OF THE SECOND HALF WITHOUT THE BALL. THAT ALLOWED THEM TO DICTATE PARTS OF THE GAME THAT WE NORMALLY TAKE CONTROL OF.” BYRON ANTHONY 43

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DATE: SUNDAY, MAY 16 VENUE: PARK AVENUE

ABERYSTWYTH TOWN LADIES 0 SWANS LADIES 5 MATCH REPORT T

Swans Ladies: Claire Skinner, Ellie Lake (Kelsey Thomas 81), Shaunna Jenkins, Alicia Powe (C), Jess Williams (Chloe Chivers 69), Tija Richardson, Emma Beynon, Laura Davies (Chloe Tiley 79), Kelly Adams (Nieve Jenkins 76), Katy Hosford (Kate Searle 81), Stacey John-Davis.

But the lead was doubled just before the interval as Hosford’s low cross got the slightest touch from John-Davis to find the far corner.

ija Richardson bagged a brace as Swansea City Ladies convincingly defeated Aberystwyth Town on their travels to remain unbeaten with only two games of the league campaign remaining.

The Swans were comfortably in charge and continued to pressure Aber’s goal as Beynon’s early cross into the penalty area c aused a moment of panic, but the home side were able to clear their lines.

The defending Welsh Premier Women’s League champions were in full command from kickoff and went into the break with a healthy twogoal lead after strikes from Richardson and Stacey John-Davis.

The three points were safely sealed with just over an hour played as Hosford’s cross into the box allowed Williams to smash home a half-volley from close-range.

In the second half, the dominance continued and the Swans added a further three goals as Jess Williams and Emma Beynon found the back of the net, with Richardson also adding her second of the afternoon.

Richardson broke the deadlock as she turned home Katy Hosford’s corner with a powerful header into the top-right corner.

Aber goalkeeper Ffion Ashman got the home side out of a difficult situation as she tipped Beynon’s shot over the crossbar from the middle of the box.

Swansea were awarded a penalty for a handball against Aber captain Caroline Cooper; Beynon stepped up and buried it from the spot despite Ashman getting a strong hand to the ball.

The Swans were definitely in the mood for more and looked to increase their lead as Hosford forced Ashman to parry her shot from distance away to safety.

But it was high fives all round as Richardson bagged herself a brace as she headed Chloe Chivers’ free-kick into the back of the net five minutes from full time.

45

A CENTURY OF LEAGUE FOOTBALL Historian Gwyn Rees looks at the club’s campaigns throughout its 100-year involvement in the Football League divisions and Premier League.

2018-2019 CHAMPIONSHIP

Relegation from the Premier League came as a considerable blow and a number of players would depart, including the likes of Lukasz Fabianski, Alfie Mawson, Ki Sung-yueng, Jordan Ayew, Roque Mesa, Sam Clucas, Federico Fernandez and Jordi Amat.

L e ague form would ultimat ely prove t o be inconsistent but the form of a nucleus of young players provided much reason to be positive, as did an FA Cup run where the Swans came within an ace – and some controversial officiating decisions – of knocking out Pep Guardiola’s all-conquering Manchester City in the quarter-finals.

The man brought in to start the rebuilding process was Englishman Graham Potter, who had won many plaudits for his successful spell in charge of Swedish club Ostersunds, leading them to cup glory and an eye-catching Europa League adventure where they humbled Turkish giants Galatasaray and gave Arsenal an almighty scare.

The season started with victory at Sheffield United, with positive results against Preston, Birmingham and Leeds following as Potter quickly outlined a commitment to playing attractive football.

46

(FINISHED 10TH)

A mid-t able finish was a t e st ament t o the manager ’s use of the young squad, and with the likes of Joe Rodon, Dan James, Connor Roberts, George Byers, Yan Dhanda and Oli McBurnie becoming regulars, the future looked bright for the club.

2019-2020 CHAMPIONSHIP (FINISHED 6TH)

The job done by head coach Potter in his only season at the club once again caught the imagination of a Premier League side, and the Swans were s o o n s e a r c h i n g fo r a r e p l a c e m e n t fo r t h e Brighton-bound Englishman.

The man given the task of continuing the revival at the club was Steve Cooper, a coach who guided England’s under-17 side to World Cup glory, having enjoyed impressive spells working in the Wrexham and Liverpool academies where he developed a reputation for improving young players.

T he new head c oach would see James and McBurnie depart for Manchester United and Sheffield United, while the likes of Leroy Fer, Wilfried Bony and Martin Olsson left as their contracts expired.

However, the return of Andre Ayew and Borja to the fold after spending the previous season on loan elsewhere, provided experience in a young squad and helped provide an excellent start that had Swansea top of the table at the end of August.

Consistency was the key to the second half of the season, and the loan signings in the January window of Rhian Brewster, Conor Gallagher and Marc Guehi proved a master stroke.

By the time the Swans played leaders West Bromwich Albion at home on the March 7, 2020, the side were eighth in the league and just two points off the play-offs.

But the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic ensured all sport was swiftly brought to a halt, and talk of playoff hopes were put to one side as the world faced up to an epochal event.

Action would eventually resume in June with a comprehensive 3-0 away win at Middlesbrough, and the Swans would remain in the promotion hunt to the last.

Needing to beat Reading and hope other results went their way, a 4-1 win at the Madejski Stadium – with two goals in the dying minutes – and Nottingham Forest’s home loss to Stoke by the same margin saw Swansea snatch sixth place.

The Swans played Brentford in the play-off semi-final first leg at home, and in a tense game a solitary goal from Ayew gave the side a lead going into the second leg in London.

But the second leg saw the home side score two early goals to take control of the tie, and they extended that lead with another goal straight after the restart.

Brewster did score with 12 minutes remaining, but the Bees held on to claim a spot in the Wembley final.

47

48

49

MAIN PARTNERS

CLUB PARTNERS

WESTACRES

OFFICIAL SUPPLIERS

50

PLAYER SPONSORS 20-21 FREDDIE WOODMAN

STEVEN BENDA

BEN HAMER

RYAN BENNETT

BEN CABANGO

MARC GUEHI

JOEL LATIBEAUDIERE

KYLE NAUGHTON

CONNOR ROBERTS

JAKE BIDWELL

RYAN MANNING

KIERON FREEMAN

WESTACRES

KOREY SMITH

MATT GRIMES

MORGAN WHITTAKER

JAY FULTON

WAYNE ROUTLEDGE

CALL 01792 616 624 OR

JAMAL LOWE

YAN DHANDA

PAUL ARRIOLA

CONOR HOURIHANE

ANDRÉ AYEW

LIAM CULLEN

EMAIL L.MERRELLS@SWANSEACITY.COM FOR AVAILABILITY 51

SEASON 2020-21 FIXTURE

52

Match Statistics

Key

Goal =

Sub = 2 (number denotes player replaced)

Captain =

DATE

TEAM

Newport County (CC R2) A L 2-0

Sat, Sep 5, 3pm

Woodman

Routledge 3

Naughton

Rodon

Fulton

Bidwell 1

Grimes

Preston North End A W 0-1

Sat, Sep 12, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Rodon

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Birmingham City H D 0-0

Sat, Sep 19, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Rodon

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Waycombe Wanderers A W 0-2

Sat, Sep 26, 12.30pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Rodon

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Millwall H W 2-1

Sat, Oct 3, 3pm

Benda

Roberts

Cabango

Rodon

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Huddersfield Town H L 1-2

Sat, Oct 17, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Naughton 3

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Coventry City A D 1-1

Tue, Oct 20, 7.45pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Bristol City A D 1-1

Sat, Oct 24, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Stoke City H W 2-0

Tue, Oct 27, 7.45pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Bennett 3

Guehi

Manning 1

Grimes

Blackburn Rovers H W 2-0

Sat, Oct 31, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Naughton

Guehi

Bidwell

Smith

Brentford A D 1-1

Tue, Nov 3, 7pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Smith

Norwich City A L 1-0

Sat, Nov 7, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Rotherham United H W 1-0

Sat, Nov 21, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Sheffield Wednesday H D 1-1

Wed, Nov 25, 7.45pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Bennett

Naughton 2

Bidwell 4

Grimes

Nottingham Forest A W 0-1

Sun, Nov 29, 12pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes Smith 5

1

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Smith

Bennett

Naughton

Bidwell

Grimes

Middlesbrough A L 2-1

Wed, Dec 2, 7pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango 2

Bennett

Guehi

Manning

Luton Town H W 2-0

Sat, Dec 5, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Cabango

Guehi 3

Bidwell

Grimes

A.F.C. Bournemouth H D 0-0

Tue, Dec 8, 7.45pm

Woodman

Roberts

Latibeaudiere

Cabango

Naughton

Bidwell

Grimes

Cardiff City A W 0-2

Sat, Dec 12, 12.30pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Derby County A L 2-0

Wed, Dec 16, 5.30pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton 2

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell 3

Grimes

Barnsley H W 2-0

Sat, Dec 19, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Queens Park Rangers A W 0-2

Sat, Dec 26, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Reading H D 0-0

Wed, Dec 30, 8pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Watford H W 2-1

Sat, Jan 2, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Guehi

Cabango

Bidwell

Manning 1

Grimes

Stevenage A (FA R3) W 0-2

Sat, Jan 9, 3pm

Woodman

Garrick 4

Naughton

Cabango

Evans

Barnsley A W 0-2

Sat, Jan 16, 7.45pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Cabango

Nottingham Forest H (FA R4) W 5-1

Sat, Jan 23, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts 5

Latibeaudiere

Brentford H D 1-1

Weds, Jan 27, 7pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Rotherham United A W 1-3

Sat, Jan 30, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

1

3

Manning

Byers

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Bennett

Guehi 4

Manning

Hourihane 3

Cabango

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Cabango

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Norwich City H W 2-0

Fri, Feb 5, 8.15pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Manchester City H (FA R5) L 1-3

Wed, Feb 10, 5.30pm

Woodman

Roberts 3

Latibeaudiere

Cabango

Guehi

Manning 4

Grimes

Nottingham Forest H W 1-0

Wed, Feb 17, 7pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton 1

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Huddersfield Town A L 4-1

Sat, Feb 20, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton 3

Bennett 1

Guehi

Bidwell 5

Grimes

Coventry City H W 1-0

Wed, Feb 24, 7pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Naughton 3

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Bristol City H 1

Sat, Feb 27, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Latibeaudiere 3

Cabango

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Stoke City A W 1-2

Wed, Mar 3, 8.15pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Cabango

Guehi

Manning

Middlesbrough H W 2-1

Sat, Mar 6, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Cabango

Guehi

Manning

Blackburn Rovers A D 1-1

Tue, March 9, 6pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Cabango

Guehi 1

Bidwell

Grimes

Luton Town A W 0-1

Sat, Mar 13, 12.15pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Bennett

Latibeadiere

Manning

Grimes

A.F.C. Bournemouth A L 3-0

Tues, Mar 16, 7.45pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Bennett

Latibeadiere 1

Manning

Grimes

Cardiff City H L 0-1

Sat, Mar 20, 5.30pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton 2

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell 3

Grimes

Birmingham City A L 1-0

Fri, Apr 2, 8pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton 3

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Grimes

Preston North End H L 0-1

Mon, Apr 5, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Cabango

Guehi

Manning

Fulton

Grimes

Millwall A W 0-3

Sat, Apr 10, 12.30pm

Woodman

Naughton

Bennett

Guehi

Manning

Fulton

Grimes

Grimes 2

Grimes

Sheffield Wednesday A W 0-2

Tues, Apr 13, 6pm

Woodman

Naughton

Bennett

Guehi

Manning 2

Fulton

Grimes

Wycombe Wanderers H D 2-2

Sat, Apr 17, 12.30pm

Woodman

Naughton 2

Bennett

Guehi

Manning

Fulton 4

Grimes Grimes

Queens Park Rangers H L 0-1

Tues, Apr 20, 7pm

Woodman

Roberts

Naughton

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Reading A D 2-2

Sun, Apr 25, 12pm

Woodman

Naughton 1

Cabango

Guehi

Bidwell

Fulton

Grimes

Derby County H W 2-1

Sat, May 1, 3pm

Woodman

Roberts

Bennett

Cabango

Bidwell 1

Smith

Grimes

Watford A L 2-0

Sat, May 8, 12.30pm

Woodman

Roberts

Bennett

Guehi

Bidwell

Fulton

Grimes

4

Booked =

Sent off =

Carabao Cup = CC

FA Cup = FA

SUBSTITUTES Smith 2

Gibbs-White

Smith

Gibbs-White

Smith

Gibbs-White

Lowe 1

Smith

Gibbs-White 1

Lowe

Smith

Gibbs-White 2

Smith Smith

1

Lowe

Ayew

Benda, Rushesha, Evans, Williams, Dhanda 2, Peterson 3, Asoro 1

Lowe 2

Ayew

Benda, Naughton, Fulton 1, Dhanda, Routledge 2, Peterson, Cullen

Ayew

Benda, Naughton, Fulton, Dhanda, Routledge, Peterson, Cullen 1

Ayew

Benda, Naughton, Fulton 1, Dhanda, Routledge, Peterson, Cullen 2

Lowe 1

Ayew

Webb, Naughton, Fulton 2, Routledge, Garrick, Cullen, Gyokeres 1

Gyokeres 1

Lowe 2

Ayew

Benda, Evans, Fulton, Dhanda, Palmer 1, Garrick 3, Cullen 2

Gyokeres 1

Lowe 2

Ayew

Benda, Manning, Fulton 1, Dhanda, Palmer, Garrick, Cullen 2

Smith

Fulton

Lowe

Ayew

Benda, Naughton, Manning, Dhanda, Routledge, Cullen, Gyokeres 1

Fulton

Dhanda 2

Lowe

Ayew

Benda, Cabango 3, Bidwell 1, Smith, Palmer 2

Fulton

Dhanda

Lowe

Ayew

Benda, Bennett, Manning, Grimes, Routledge, Palmer 2, Gyokeres 1

Dhanda 2

Lowe 3

Ayew

Benda, Latibeaudiere, Manning, Grimes 1, Routledge, Palmer 2, Gyokeres 3

Palmer 3

Lowe

Ayew

Benda, Latibeaudiere, Manning, Grimes 1, Dhanda 3, Routledge, Gyokeres 2

Fulton

Dhanda 2

Lowe 3

Cullen 1

Benda, Latibeaudiere, Manning, Rushesha, Williams, Smith 3, Cooper, Routledge 1, Palmer 2

Smith

Dhanda

Lowe 3

Cullen 1

Benda, Latibeaudiere, Manning 4, Rushesha, Fulton, O.Cooper, Routledge 3, Palmer 2, Ayew 1

Smith

Fulton

Lowe 1

Ayew

Benda, Cabango, Manning, Dhanda, Routledge 1, Palmer, Garrick, Cullen, Gyokeres

Palmer 4

Lowe 3

Ayew

Benda, Naughton, Bidwell, Grimes 1 , Dhanda 4

Dhanda 2

Cullen 2

Ayew

Fulton 1 Fulton

Fulton

2

1

Smith Smith

Dhanda 2

Lowe 1

Smith

Fulton

Lowe

Smith 5

Fulton 1

Fulton

Dhanda

Fulton

Dhanda

Fulton Fulton Fulton 1

Routledge

Fulton

Smith

Dhanda

Grimes

Fulton

2

1

, Cullen, Gyokeres

, Routledge 2, Garrick 5, Cullen, Gyokeres 3

Benda, Latibeaudiere 3, Manning, Fulton, Routledge, Palmer 2, Garrick, Lowe 1, Gyokeres 4

4

Benda, Evans, Manning, Fulton, Routledge, Palmer 2, Garrick, Cullen, Gyokeres 1

Ayew Ayew

Benda, Latibeaudiere, Cabango, Manning, Routledge 1, Palmer, Dhanda, Cullen, Gyokeres

Lowe 4

Ayew

Benda, Latibeaudiere, Cabango, Manning 3, Garrick 4, Palmer 3, Dhanda 1, Cullen 5, Gyokeres

Lowe

Ayew

Benda, Latibeaudiere, Manning, Smith, Routledge, Palmer, O.Cooper, Cullen, Gyokeres

Lowe

Ayew

Benda, Latibeaudiere, Manning, Smith 1, Routledge, Palmer, Garrick, Cullen, Gyokeres

Smith 2

Lowe 3

Ayew

Benda, Latibeaudiere 1, Manning, Routledge, Palmer 2, Dhanda, O.Cooper, Garrick, Gyokeres 3

Smith

Lowe

Ayew

Benda, Evans, Routledge, Palmer, Dhanda, Gibbs-White 1, O.Cooper, Garrick, Gyokeres

Dhanda

Gyokeres

Webb, Guehi, Bidwell 3, Grimes, Smith 1, Williams, O.Cooper 4, Cullen 2, Lowe

1

2

1

Lowe

Ayew

Hamer, Latibeaudiere, Manning, Routledge, Byers, Dhanda, O.Cooper, Garrick, Cullen

Routledge 1

Cullen

Webb, Cabango, Naughton, Bidwell 4, Fulton 2, Cooper 3

Hourihane

Lowe 1

Ayew

Hamer, Bennett, Latibeaudiere, Manning 1, Williams, Dhanda, O.Cooper, Garrick, Morris

Dhanda 1

Hourihane

Lowe 2

Ayew

Hamer, Latibeaudiere, Evans, Manning, Williams, Fulton 1

Fulton

Hourihane

Lowe 1

Ayew

Hamer, Latibeaudiere, Cabango, Manning, Freeman, Dhanda, O.Cooper, Morris 1, Whittaker

Fulton

Dhanda

5

Lowe 1

Morris 2

Webb, Naughton, Freeman 3, Bennett, Bidwell 4, Hourihane 5, Arriola 1, Whittaker 2

Fulton

Hourihane 3

Lowe 2

Ayew

Hamer, Cabango, Latibeaudiere, Manning, Smith 3, Dhanda, Arriola 2, Morris 1, Whittaker

Fulton 4

Hourihane

Lowe 1

Ayew

Hamer, Cabango 1, Latibeaudiere, Manning 5, Smith, Dhanda 4, Arriola, Morris 2, Whittaker 3

Dhanda 1

Hourihane 2

Lowe

Ayew

Hamer, Latibeaudiere 3, Manning, Freeman, Smith 1, Fulton 2, Arriola, O.Cooper, Whittaker

Dhanda 1

Hourihane 2

Lowe

Ayew

Hamer, Naughton, B.Cooper, Manning, Smith, Fulton 1, Arriola 2, O.Cooper, Whittaker 3

Fulton

Smith

Lowe 1

Ayew

Hamer, Latibeaudiere, Bidwell, Freeman, Hourihane 1, Dhanda, Arriola, O.Cooper, Whittaker

Fulton

Smith 1

Hourihane

Ayew

Hamer, Latibeaudiere, Bidwell 2, Bennett, Dhanda, Arriola, O.Cooper, Arriola, Lowe 1, Whittaker

Fulton 2

Hourihane 3

Smith

Hourihane

Smith 2 Fulton 4

2

, Garrick 5, Ayew, Lowe 1

, O.Cooper, Garrick, Morris 2

Lowe 4

Ayew

Hamer, Bennett, Latibeaudiere 1, Manning, Smith 3, Dhanda 2, O.Cooper, Routledge 4, Whittaker

Dhanda 1

Ayew

Hamer, Cabango, Bidwell, Freeman, Fulton 2, O.Cooper, Routledge, Lowe 1, Whittaker

Hourihane 3

Lowe

Ayew

Hamer, Cabango, Bidwell, Freeman, Fulton, Dhanda 2, O.Cooper, Routledge 3, Whittaker 1

Hourihane 1

Ayew

Whittaker

Hamer, Cabango, Latibeaudiere, Manning 3, Smith 1, Dhanda 4, Routledge, Lowe 2

Smith 1

Fulton

Lowe 2

Ayew

Hamer, Cabango, Latibeaudiere, Manning, Hourihane, Dhanda 1, Routledge 2, O.Cooper, Whittaker 3

Hourihane 1

Whittaker 2

Lowe

Ayew

Hourihane

Ayew

Routledge 1

Lowe

Hourihane 3

Ayew

Routledge 1

Lowe

Hourihane 3

Roberts

Smith

Fulton

Hourihane 4

Routledge 2

Dhanda 3

Whittaker

Hourihane 5

Ayew 1

2

3

2

Hamer, Cabango, Latibeaudiere, Roberts 1, Bidwell, Smith, Dhanda, O.Cooper 2, Whittaker 3 Hamer, Latibeaudiere, Freeman, Roberts 1, Bidwell 2, Smith 3, Dhanda, O.Cooper, Whittaker

Lowe

Ayew 1

Hamer, Cabango, Latibeaudiere, Bidwell, Smith 3, Dhanda 4, Routledge 1, 5, Whittaker 2, Cullen 5

Routledge 1

Lowe 3

Hamer, Cabango, Latibeaudiere, Manning, Hourihane, Dhanda 2, O.Cooper, Whittaker 3, Cullen 1

Lowe 2

Hamer, Bennett, Latibeaudiere, Naughton, Bidwell, Smith, Dhanda 1, Routledge 2, O.Cooper 2

Lowe Lowe 3

4

Cullen 3

Hamer, Bennett, Latibeaudiere, Roberts 1, Smith 4, Dhanda, O.Cooper, Ayew 3

Cullen

Hamer, Naughton, B. Cooper 4, Latibeaudiere, Manning 1, Fulton 3, Hourihane, O.Cooper 2, Routledge

, Whittaker 2

Cullen 2

Hamer, Naughton, Latibeaudiere, Manning, Smith 4, Dhanda 3, O.Cooper 1, Routledge 2, Whittaker 5

53

CHAMPIONSHIP TABLE 20-21 POS

54

TEAM

*Sheffield Wednesday deducted 6 points. P = Promoted. R = Relegated.

P

W

D

L

F

A

GD

PTS

1

Norwich City P

46

29

10

7

75

36

39

97

2

Watford P

46

27

10

9

63

30

33

91

3

Brentford

46

24

15

7

79

42

37

87

4

Swansea City

46

23

11

12

56

39

17

80

5

Barnsley

46

23

9

14

58

50

8

78

6

Bournemouth

46

22

11

13

73

46

27

77

7

Reading

46

19

13

14

62

54

8

70

8

Cardiff City

46

18

14

14

66

49

17

68

9

Queens Park Rangers

46

19

11

16

57

55

2

68

10

Middlesbrough

46

18

10

18

55

53

2

64

11

Millwall

46

15

17

14

47

52

-5

62

12

Luton Town

46

17

11

18

41

52

-11

62

13

Preston North End

46

18

7

21

49

56

-7

61

14

Stoke City

46

15

15

16

50

52

-2

60

15

Blackburn Rovers

46

15

12

19

65

54

11

57

16

Coventry City

46

14

13

19

49

61

-12

55

17

Nottingham Forest

46

12

16

18

37

45

-8

52

18

Birmingham City

46

13

13

20

37

61

-24

52

19

Bristol City

46

15

6

25

46

68

-22

51

20

Huddersfield Town

46

12

13

21

50

71

-21

49

21

Derby County

46

11

11

24

36

58

-22

44

22

Wycombe Wanderers R

46

11

10

25

39

69

-30

43

23

Rotherham United R

46

11

9

26

44

60

-16

42

24

Sheffield Wednesday* R

46

12

11

23

40

61

-21

41

55

SQUAD LIST V

HEAD COACH: STEVE COOPER Freddie Woodman Ryan Bennett Ryan Manning Marc Guéhi Jay Fulton Korey Smith Matt Grimes Jamal Lowe André Ayew Jordan Morris Steven Benda Conor Hourihane Wayne Routledge Morgan Whittaker Ben Hamer Paul Arriola Liam Cullen Yan Dhanda Joel Latibeaudiere Connor Roberts Jake Bidwell Kyle Naughton Tivonge Rushesha Ollie Cooper Kieron Freeman Brandon Cooper Daniel Williams Lewis Webb Ben Cabango

1 2 3 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 13 14 15 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 26 30 31 34 36 37 42 44

HEAD COACH: VALÉRIEN ISMAËL 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 14 16 20 21 22 24 26 27 28 29 30 40

Jack Walton Jordan Williams Ben Williams Callum Styles Liam Kitching Mads Andersen Callum Brittain Herbie Kane Cauley Woodrow Daryl Dike Conor Chaplin Carlton Morris Luke Thomas Toby Sibbick Romal Palmer Clarke Oduor Aapo Halme Michael Sollbauer Alex Mowatt Dominik Frieser Victor Adeboyejo Michał Helik Brad Collins

MATCH OFFICIALS REFEREE: JOHN BROOKS ASSISTANT REFEREES: NICK GREENHALGH AND MATTHEW JONES FOURTH OFFICIAL: MATTHEW DONOHUE