Monk upbeat despite Chelsea defeat

Garry Monk insisted his side would not be disheartened after they were beaten 4-2 by Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

The Swans' perfect start to the Barclays Premier League campaign came to an end after a hat-trick from Diego Costa, plus a goal by Loic Remy, earned the Blues maximum points.

But for the majority of the first period, Monk's men were the superior side and were rewarded for their efforts when John Terry turned a low Neil Taylor cross into his own net early on.

The Swans had further chances to extend their lead before the midway point but were dealt a cruel blow when Diego Costa headed home the equaliser on the brink of half-time.

The Spain international added two more to his tally after the break before Loic Remy scored Chelsea's fourth of the game, prior to Jonjo Shelvey netting a late consolation goal for the Swans.

And despite Swansea's first defeat of the season, Monk felt his side gave a good account of themselves against one of the best teams in the league.

"We won't be disheartened," insisted the Swans boss. "We played some very good stuff in the first half. 

"We were disappointed to concede before half time, and maybe should have added one or two more goals because we had some good chances.

"In the second half, I think you could see the power and quality that Chelsea have, and we couldn't quite contain them.

"But the players gave what I asked of them. They were fully committed. We continued to try to play well, but we came up against a very good side.

"They have world class players who can cause you damage at any time, which is why they pay the money they do for them.

"There are a lot of stuff we need to work on, but we are edging closer. We competed very well for a considerable period of the game.

"We're making vast improvements. Some of our play today was the best we've ever played against one of the big teams.

"We're disappointed to lose the game, but the players can be pleased with the account they gave of themselves."

Meanwhile, Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho admitted this afternoon's match was a game of two halves, but was pleased with his side's display in the second period.

"The second half was fantastic for us, while the first half was fantastic for them," said the Blues boss.

"The first half was hard, they had too much time and space. But we made changes and overall I felt we deserved the victory. 

"We pressed better in the second half, which changed the game and made it difficult for them."