Swansea were beaten 2-0 by title favourites Northampton on Saturday and left the field to a chorus of boos and jeers. It was a dreadful start that saw two poor defensive errors cost the home side any chance of opening day glory. Murmurs of discontent are already flooding around the streets of Swansea, with many believing that Kenny Jackett isn't the man for the job. But is this fair after only 90 minutes?
Saturday's season opener can be divided into three very different periods:
Kick-off - 20 mins: Swansea started poorly and a number of defensive errors gifted the visitors several chances and the opening goal. Swansea literally couldn't hold onto the ball. Down to 10 men for much of this period, with Forbes receiving treatment.
20 - 65 mins: With eleven men, Swans dominated. Created a succession of chances that should have been in, from O'Leary (twice), Tate, Connor and Robinson - and had a very strong penalty appeal turned down.
65 - 90 mins: Jackett's substitutions meant Swans lost control of midfield. Northampton grew in confidence and eventually grabbed second with eight minutes left. Swansea created almost nothing of any note.
Stuart Jones created the sort of defensive error that managers have nightmares about, as Jackett watched on helplessly from the touchline to see his side lose an early goal. After growing in confidence, Swansea then dominated with Alan Tate's header cleared off of the line and a number of excellent chances being missed. Unfortunately, the removal of Martinez in the centre of midfield appeared to leave Swansea somewhat lightweight in that area - and Jackett must hold his hands up to that mistake. Lets just hope that Jackett has learnt from Saturday's opener, for example, that Britton is probably too lightweight to occupy a central berth and that Stuart Jones still has a long way too go before he can be considered a first-team regular.
Nevertheless, just look at the improvement from Northampton's last visit to the Vetch!! Judging a manager on results is one thing, but after only 90 minutes?!! Perhaps after five or so games, if we are still showing no sign of improvement, then we do have something to worry about.
All supporters will be hoping that Swansea can claim points from both their next two fixtures this week, with trips to Rochdale and Macclesfield soon upon us. Lets get behind the side and I'm sure that the results will follow.
Kenny Jackett's Barmy Army!!