Anthony Wright praises character to fight back despite cup exit

Coach Anthony Wright was pleased with the character shown by Swansea City Under-21s to fight back against Southampton in the Premier League Cup, even though a point wasn't enough to progress to the quarter-finals.

The Saints maintained their unbeaten run in Group C with the 2-2 draw, whilst a point saw the Swans finish in third place below West Bromwich Albion, after the Baggies won their final group game.

Southampton had the advantage early on after Jay Robinson slotted home from inside the box, before Brandon Charles’ strike had them two goals to the good in the 24th minute. 

In-form Thomas Woodward drilled home to pull one back for the Swans before the break and, within four minutes of the second period, Sammy Henia-Kamau levelled the scores.

The Swans had a plethora of chances to claim a comeback victory but it was not to be as they bowed out of the competition.

"It was a real tough game, but once again it was a game where we showed that we can compete at this level with category one teams," said Wright.

"It was a real difficult start for us, going 2-0 down. But I thought the players showed great character and got themselves back into the game which was very pleasing to see.

"Goals always change games. We actually had a lot of control in the first half, we made two small errors that led to their goals, and you do get punished at this level.

"It was disappointing from us to give those errors away, but they never really tested us. They had a few half chances.

"We regrouped half-time, we did change shape and then we had great control in the second half. We deservedly got the equalising goal to get back into the game, then we looked like the only team who could go on to win the game.

"At this moment in time, we've got around 13 players unavailable to this group. We've got players with the first team, and out on loan. All those players would come into this group and make an impact.

"The pleasing thing is that it shows how well the crop of players are doing behind them, with a performance like this against a strong side."