Swans Ignore Mind the Gap Announcement from Rest of Championship

The Swans miss the chance to close the gap on leaders – from the pen of Abigail Davies

The Swans remain second in the Championship despite dropping points at home to Watford on Tuesday night.

It was a game of two halves at the Liberty with The Swans looking to be in complete control in the first 45, taking the lead through a Stephen Dobbie strike on 26 minutes. Mark Gower’s inch-perfect ball into the penalty area played Dobbie through on goal and after being dropped to the bench for Saturday’s trip to Scunthorpe, the Scot broke the deadlock with his second goal in 3 games.

From the outset The Swans found joy on both flanks with Rangel and Dyer’s partnership seemingly becoming one of the most important and successful in the side. The Swans dominance continued after taking the lead, with Dyer’s pace and trickery showing why he is a defenders worst nightmare- causing numerous problems for Watford who were unable to deal with the skilful winger.

Even though Dobbie’s presence in the side is crucial, I feel the return of the dynamic Darren Pratley will be a welcome boost as there was a lack of movement for The Swans pushing forward with Luke Moore quite static as the home sides loan striker. The hosts had a chance to double their lead through Scott Sinclair just before half time as he worked his way into the box with great footwork but saw his effort fire wide of the target.

There was a further opportunity for Brendan Rodgers’ side to extend their lead after the break as Loach’s sliced clearance presented Stephen Dobbie with an opening and his shot from 20 yards forced a good save from The Hornets keeper.

Joe Allen’s work ethic and determination to win back possession yet again stood out in the centre of midfield, as well as this the 20 year old looked a threat going forward with some great one two’s and link up play with Nathan Dyer and Stephen Dobbie.

The Swans opener was cancelled out with 12 minutes left on the clock as The Swans were caught out by a Troy Deeny chip over the defence into the path of Danny Graham, who connected and fired past Dorus De Vries to level the score. After netting the equaliser the visitors looked the more likely to find a winner, pressing high up the field and not allowing The Swans to build up their attacks from defence as we usually see them do so successfully.

The Swans draw saw them miss the chance to close the gap on league leaders QPR after Neil Warnock’s side were beaten at Millwall.

Next up for Swansea City is a trip to Derby County, where Brendan Rodgers team know 3 points will be vital if they are to remain in that highly sought after second automatic promotion spot.