Potter delighted with Bolton triumph

Graham Potter toasted Swansea City’s blend of quality and character as Barrie McKay’s goal secured a 1-0 victory at Bolton Wanderers.

The Swans banked a first away victory since September 1 thanks to McKay’s early goal.

The Scot struck in spectacular style after only 15 minutes at the University of Bolton Stadium as Potter’s men took charge in the first half.

The Swans had a tougher time in the second period as Bolton huffed and puffed and threatened to get back into the game.

But the Swans held on for a clean sheet and a welcome win ahead of the international break.

“It’s a great result for us – to come away from home and win 1-0 shows the character of the lads,” Potter said.

“We had to respond to the disappointment of last week at Rotherham and we did that.

“I thought we played really well in the first half and we probably should have been more than 1-0 up at half-time.

“But at the same time we knew Bolton were always in the game. They play a lot of direct balls and the second balls can drop to people in dangerous areas.

“The second half was more of a scrap. We couldn’t control things very well and it was about digging in and getting over the line.

“Thankfully we managed to do that. That’s what you have to do sometimes in this division – come away from home and grind out a result.

“We have shown in the second half the qualities that you need. The players fought for each other, as they have done in every game, and from that perspective they are fantastic to work with.”

The Swans lost out at Rotherham despite controlling the contest for long periods and going 1-0 up.

Potter was delighted to see his team avoid another late disappointment at Bolton – but admitted they must take their opportunities when they come.

“The next stage for us is making sure we convert more chances,” he added.

“We are improving in terms of our understanding of how to create, but we have to be a bit more careful when it comes to the final ball and the last pass.

“It says a lot about the players, though, that we were able to recover from last week and get three points and a clean sheet.

“As a unit and as a squad, we have shown that defensive mentality you need in every game this season.

“I have not been able to accuse the players of not trying in any game. Sometimes you need a bit of luck in your box and we had that today.”