by Michael Wicherek
STEVE Cooper remains positive ahead of Swansea’s next match – against fierce rivals Cardiff on Sunday – despite a heavy midweek home defeat to Brentford.
The Swans boss says it is important for his side to start winning again in front of the home fans. The derby is the ideal opportunity to do so in front of a sell-out crowd.
Reacting to the defeat, Cooper said: “It’s disappointing, [we are] not going to hideaway from a poor score line at home.”
Cooper saw his side exposed by Brentford who went into the tie sitting in mid-table.
“Obviously three really disappointing goals we conceded”
Cooper bemoaned the poor defensive display across the pitch but was keen not to place blame on his back four. He said: “We fell short defending all throughout the pitch.”
Brentford exploited sloppy play from Swansea with three well taken counter attacking goals which is a concern for Cooper as it differs to previous games where his side conceded late on.
“If you make errors and give time and space that will happen.”
He will be hoping that this is not the case when Cardiff come to visit this weekend.
“Two options, we can either cry or get on with it.”
With the South Wales derby just around the corner, Cooper was keen to stress the importance of moving on from another defeat.
“I said to the players its done, disappointing, it hurts we’ve let ourselves down.”
Swansea will attempt to arrest their run of three games without a win against their neighbours.
The Swans want to “stand up and be counted” according to Cooper. The fans will be expecting a greatly improved display in the next game.
“We look at where we can win the game”
Cooper has been ringing the changes in recent weeks but said he is happy with the squad’s performances.
Deflecting any doubts over his selection, Cooper claimed that the changes made were due to their plans for the opposition and how they feel they can best win the game.
Ahead of the derby Swansea have no fresh injury concerns.
