Harry Darling | We need to be more clinical
Harry Darling felt a point on the road at Watford was a positive for Swansea City, but admitted they paid for missed opportunities in the first half.
The Swans took a deserved lead when Ryan Andrews headed into his own net in bizarre fashion, and Luke Williams’ men had chances to extend their lead with Ronald and Ben Cabango forcing good stops from Daniel Bachmann.
The second half was a different matter though and, while Przemysław Płacheta and Cabango had further chances for the visitors, Watford were much improved.
Wesley Hoedt’s header appeared to be turned in by Ryan Porteous for the equaliser shortly before the hour mark, and the Swans defence was forced to stand firm against the Hornets' late pressure.
“In the first half, we played really well and we need to learn how to put our chances away,” said Darling.
“In the second half, they had a few chances but we defended well and put in some good blocks.
“I think we’re still building as a team and working. At the end of the day, it’s a good point.”
It was the defender’s first start since the home defeat to Leicester City at the end of January but, with fixtures against Bristol City and Cardiff City fast approaching, Darling is hoping for more opportunities, be that at centre-back or right-back.
“It was frustrating being injured. You can’t do anything from the side, all you can do is hope the boys do well and cheer them on,” he added.
“Naughts [Kyle Naughton] is playing brilliantly in the right-back role and the boys at the back have been brilliant. So it’s good competition.
“When the fixtures come out, you always look for the derbies, the games against Bristol City and Cardiff.
“I’m sure we’ll have a good following on Sunday and hopefully we can get another good result.”
It's also a busy time off the field for Darling, after he and his partner Sofia recently welcomed daughter Gigi to the world.
“It is obviously a big change,” he smiled.
“Me and my girlfriend are loving it though, I’m not enjoying the sleepless nights, but other than that I’m enjoying being a dad."