Fan focus: Susan Davies

The Jack Army go under the spotlight in our regular feature where one fan revisits their favourite memories and stories of following the Swans over the years.

Name: Susan Davies

Age: 40

From: Llanelli.

How long have you been supporting the Swans?

Since I was 14. My dad Steve took me to the games and I followed all the matches - home and away - and loved every minute of it. My youngest brother John soon started following the Swans and he was hooked as much as we were.

What was the first Swans game you attended?

It was the Swans against Monaco in the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1991. It was an amazing night. Monaco were managed by Arsene Wenger and had players like Emmanuel Petit and George Weah in their team.

We lost, but we pushed them hard, losing only 2-1 with Andy Legg getting our goal. The second leg (which ended 8-0 to Monaco) did not go so well, though!

Why did you start supporting the Swans?

My father was a big fan and I went along to watch the Swans with him, so he is to blame!

What is your most memorable Swans moment?

There have been a few good ones, but I would have to go for the game where we saved our Football League status in 2003 against Hull City.

I don’t think you could say it was an enjoyable day, at least not before James Thomas scored his third goal to make it 4-2. Up until that point, it was agony. After that, the feeling of relief was massive.

What is the best game you've seen at the Vetch/Liberty?

There have been some great games in the Premier League, while a lot of people would probably choose the play-off semi-final against Nottingham Forest in 2011.

But I would go for the 3-2 win over Leeds United in December 2007. We were 2-1 up when Ferrie Bodde got sent off, but then Jason Scotland made it 3-1. They got one back but we held on for a brilliant win.

What is the best goal you’ve seen at the Vetch/Liberty?

There are a few that stick in the memory, but I would have to go for Lee Trundle’s long-range strike against Yeovil Town.

Can you tell us about the greatest sacrifice you have made to watch the Swans?

I did not get an apprenticeship at work because I took a day sick to watch the Swans in Wycombe in the Autoglass Trophy and then another two days to recover after that!

Describe to us your typical pre-match ritual?

I usually get to the Liberty about an hour before kick-off. We’ll grab some food on the way and then get into the stadium, pick up a copy of Jack Magazine, watch the build-up on the big screens and start soaking up the atmosphere.

Who is your favourite Swans player of all time, and why?

Roberto Martinez. He was a calming influence in middle of the park at a time when we really needed it. His passing was great and he always give 100 per cent for the cause.

Who is your favourite current player, and why?

Leon Britton - the little maestro with a big heart. He gives 100 per cent every time he steps on the pitch and he never pulls out of a tackle.

What is your favourite Swans kit from over the years?

I would go for the white and gold home centenary kit.

If you could sign one player for the club, who would it be?

Gareth Bale. He is Welsh, and he is very good at football! He'd probably just about squeeze into our starting XI.

What has been your most disappointing moment watching the club?

I would go for losing the Division Three play-off final at Wembley against Northampton Town in 1997. It was absolutely heartbreaking to lose in that manner.

What makes Swansea City special to you?

It is great family club, and when the fans start singing at the Liberty, there is no better place to be.