Nathan Dyer | Win was among best derby memories

Nathan Dyer ranked Swansea City’s win over Cardiff City last weekend among his best derby day memories.

Ben Wilmot netted the only goal of the game as the Swans claimed the bragging rights over the Bluebirds in the first meeting between the sides since 2014.

Since joining the Swans – initially on loan – in 2009, Dyer has started in every South Wales derby, scoring three goals in the process, including his memorable strike in the emphatic 3-0 win at the Liberty back in 2014.

The 31-year-old knows better than most the enormity of the fixture, and last Sunday was no different.

“I always love a derby,” said Dyer. “I remember my first one at Ninian Park and the boys telling me what to expect. When you’re involved it’s a completely different occasion, but a special one – especially for the fans and the city as a whole.

“There have been a few over the years – a couple that I’ve scored in and we’ve gone on to win. This win is definitely up there. It ranks very highly.”

Dyer returned to first-team action for the first time in over a month, with his experience alongside the recalled Wayne Routledge and Kyle Naughton proving vital in the victory.

And the winger felt it was a deserved victory – one which saw the Swans move level with second-placed Preston.

“I thought the boys fought tremendously and put their bodies on the line. There was not one time that I thought we were vulnerable or outfought,” he added.

“Down the years there have probably been tastier derbies but, nevertheless, this means the world to us. All we wanted to do was to win for the fans by any means necessary.

“You always want to win against your rivals and it’s going to be a great few weeks for the fans.”