Blues draw at Swansea with Andy Munro reporting.
Swansea manager Steve Cooper is a bit like a Welsh version of Tony Mowbray in that he continually whinges and never gives credit to the opposition. This attitude was compounded by his sidekick Alan Tate grabbing Jon Toral by the throat during the game, and let’s hope the FA metaphorically do the same to him.
Anyway, Blues secured a great point on the road despite a bit of late and expected pressure from the Swans. That’s now a win and a draw against two of the promotion favourites.
It’s quite revealing that Karanka’s two ex-Smoggie players, George Friend and Adam Clayton, were again influential in our spirited resistance ably supported by the waspish Ivan Sunjic. However, work needs to be done certainly on the left hand side with Pedersen too often socially distanced from his winger not helped by the mercurial Bela rather too lamely chasing back.
Up front the Juke did everything that was asked of him battling to keep the Swansea rear guard occupied but too often was left a lonely figure. In fairness Toral seems to be very gradually getting up to speed and could have netted but still only makes sporadic appearances forward of the Juke and his headed flick ons.
However, Rome wasn’t built in a day, particularly from the ruined foundations of last season and maybe the solution lies with our present squad. Beko, once fit, will add much needed pace and goal power as can Scott Hogan. Dan Crowley can be given a run, in rotation with Toral, and if we sign the Chelsea wide player on loan maybe Sanchez can switch to his natural left and provide a reason for Bela to become sharper and more focussed.
At the back, there must still be a concern about Harle Deane’s rash tackling in and around the penalty area so maybe it’s time to give Roberts a whirl. However, all this can wait while we remain unbeaten.
