Ceri Phillips | We defended resiliently

Swansea City Ladies head coach Ceri Phillips praised his side’s resilient performance as they ran out 3-1 winners over The New Saints Women.

Nia Rees and Emma Beynon, who filled in at striker, both netted within 12 minutes to give the Swans an incredible start.

But a foul in the box from Shaunna Jenkins handed TNS a penalty which captain Beth Lewis would convert.

TNS would hold onto possession well against the Swans but struggled to break down the resilient defence as they struggled to challenge Chelsea Herbert in the Swansea goal.

Katy Hosford put the game out of sight late in the second half firing home from distance. 

Phillips praised his side for their strong performance and was glad to see how they battled against TNS.

“It’s a long journey here and it could have been an even longer journey home so it was very important to get the win,” said Phillips.

“There are plenty of things that we could have done slightly better, but it was a big battle in the second half and I think the girls showed a different side to them that helped them win that battle, get the ball and get control of the game back.

“The start of games has been a bit frantic and a bit slow to start, but we came firing out of the blocks today, and with the long journey you would almost understand a bit of complacency.

“Two early goals settled it really and then the penalty put the bit between their teeth, but we battled really well in that second half.

“I don’t really recall them getting in behind us too much but they did have a lot of possession, we defended resiliently and it was a good team effort out of possession and it was nice to get that late goal and secure three points.

“We have a couple of injuries in the attacking positions at the minute so Emma came in and did a fantastic job for us today. Right from the start she was outstanding today.”