Luke Williams | We showed so much resilience

Luke Williams spoke of his pride in the character of his players after a battling performance saw them end their winless run with a 1-0 victory over Bristol City at Ashton Gate.

Josh Tymon’s first goal for the Swans was the difference between the sides, and gave the visitors a first win of 2025.

The wing-back kept his nerve to convert the rebound after Goncalo Franco’s effort had been parried by Max O’Leary.

But there were heroes everywhere in white. Lawrence Vigouroux made key early saves and commanded his box with authority; skipper Ben Cabango and the recalled Kyle Naughton were outstanding in defence alongside Hannes Delcroix, while new signing Lewis O’Brien caught the eye with a lively, energetic midfield display.

And Williams passionately praised the manner in which the Swans ran themselves to a standstill for the cause.

“That was a hard-fought win, because we came under a lot of pressure,” said the head coach.

“The players were so resilient, and then showed the ability to create some really good chances, so I am very proud of the way they battled and protected our goal.

“Then they had the bravery to create something of their own to take the points.

“We built into the game, the home team were aggressive but we stood up to that and then were able to create some big chances.

“The bedrock for us as a group has got to be the grit and determination we showed, the desperation to defend our own box.

“We showed that, but this group also has talent and I hope this result can help us gain a second wind and enjoy the rest of the season.

“I hope we see as a bare minimum that level of ability to fight and compete with the opposition.”

Following the final whistle, Williams’ staff and players all went to share the victory with the 2,000 Jacks who had made the journey across the Severn to cheer the side on, and then held an impromptu team huddle on the pitch.

“Honestly, I hope people know that we put them first because the club is about them,” the Swans boss said of the fans.

“So we should always make sure we are not off the pitch too quickly, we should make sure we show them how much it means to us and how much they mean to us, more importantly.

“It’s been a while since we have had the chance to share a moment like that with them, so it was perfect, just perfect.”