Under-18s suffer narrow defeat

The Under-18s went down to a 2-1 defeat against Millwall on Saturday in Development League Two South.

Despite taking an early lead thanks to Stephen Fallon's goal, the Lions roared back to claim all three points in the capital.

The result brought an end to the squad's eight-game winning streak, and was their first defeat in 13 outings in all competitions.

And coach Gary Richards insists the group are now looking forward to starting afresh in the New Year ahead of a challenge on three fronts.

"We started the game well and played excellent for the first 20 minutes," he said. "But we let Millwall back into it and we struggled to get a grip of the contest for the rest of the half.

"We gave the ball away too much and didn't deal with Millwall's style and they scored twice before half time.

"We created chances after the break but it was one of those days where the ball wouldn't drop or we weren't clinical enough in front of goal.

"On a positive note, myself and Cameron (Toshack) are pleased with the development of the group and we'll keep working hard after the Christmas break to hit the ground running in the league and two cup competitions.

"We have a hectic January coming up with six or seven matches and everyone is looking forward to it."

SWANS U18s: Lewis Thomas (Gareth Owen, 65), Aaron Lewis, Keston Davies, Joe Rodon, Cai Owens (Jordan Sherman, 70), Jamie Latham, Adnan Maric, Jack Evans (Tom Dyson, 70), Stephen Fallon, Owain Jones, Dan James.