Darren Davies proud of "mature" performance from young squad

Coach Darren Davies was pleased with the maturity of a young Swansea City Under-18s side after they secured a 1-1 draw against Crewe Alexandra.

Rohan Davies and Dan Watts had a number of chances for the visitors, but Thomas Woodward would be the one to open the scoring in the 72nd minute with a fine finish. 

However, the home side drew level nearing the final whistle, substitute Mohamed Jatta finding the bottom-left corner as he slid in to meet a cross.

The Swans fielded a very young side with 10 under-16s in the matchday squad for the upper-age group.

Kiel Higginson and Sam Knipe made their debuts, whilst Caio Ifans and Thomas Searle – who had featured as substitutes in recent games – landed their first start for the under-18s.  

“It’s probably the youngest side we’ve fielded this season, we had six starters who were under-15s and under-16s," said Davies. 

“They were excellent and, not only that, I also think the scholars who played actually helped the youngsters, and they deserve a special mention as well. 

“I think tactically more than anything, we’ve learnt a lot. We set up slightly different because of the lesser physicality we had in the team, but they are real mature for their age.

“We didn’t press as high as long as we normally do because we knew we couldn't sustain that for long periods of time. 

“We did grow into the game; we could have scored two or three goals in the second half. I’m just disappointed for them that they couldn’t hang on.  

“To the youngest player on the pitch and to the oldest player on the pitch, they should be proud of themselves. 

“They stuck together and helped each other through it. As coaching staff and as a club, we have to acknowledge that.”