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Saturday, September 14, 2002 Swans could face season-long struggle, warns Giles

Western Mail SWANSEA CITY were last night warned that they face a season-long struggle unless they sign an experienced centre-half to help ease their defensive frailties. The Third Division strugglers contest the first Welsh derby of the season at Wrexham today sitting 22nd in the league after collecting only one victory in their first seven matches and conceding 14 goals. If they lose at Wrexham and other results go against them, Swansea could be rock bottom of English football's hierarchy for the first time in their 82-year league history come 4.45pm this afternoon. The Swans, though, are confident of reversing their ailing fortunes at The Racecourse after their performance against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Worthington Cup in midweek. But David Giles, a former Swansea and Wrexham winger, fears the Vetch Field club, who have registered only one clean sheet this season, will continue to find it hard without reinforcing their defence. "I can see Swansea struggling for the rest of the season unless they sign an experienced centre-half," said Giles. "They need someone who has been there and done it, a player who can help out the younger guys. They need to find a Keith Walker (former Swansea defender), if you like. "Nick (Cusack) might have to wait until the next transfer window to sign someone, but I can't see things getting any better unless they do." Giles, who spent 10 months at The Racecourse in 1978 before a four-year stint with the Swans, has identified strikers James Thomas and Jamie Wood as key to Swansea's hopes in today's all-Wales encounter. "They are two quality players," said Giles, also a former Wales and Cardiff City winger. "They've formed a fantastic partnership in a short space of time. "They look very dangerous and could cause Wrexham a few problems. If they can do that, and the defence holds firm, Swansea are in with a chance, though Wrexham are the favourites." Wrexham entertain Cusack's side after claiming a confidence booster of their own when they disposed of First Division Bradford City 2-1 in the Worthington Cup on Tuesday. Giles, now a local radio pundit, believes the North Wales club will aim to use that result to their advantage. "Beating Bradford will have done them the power of good," he said. "And they will hope to follow that up with another win against Swansea." Meanwhile, Cardiff City aim to get their league season back on track against Stockport County at Ninian Park today after successive draws against Luton Town and Cheltenham. "Cardiff need to win this one," said Giles. "They have collected only four points from the last nine at home. "They had a tremendous result in the Worthington Cup in midweek (a 5-1 win against Boston United) which will have given them a lot of confidence. "(Bluebirds striker) Robert Earnshaw scored a brilliant hat-trick against Boston and he must start against Stock-port. It is time to unleash him."

Saturday, September 14, 2002 Smith sure Wrexham can trump Swans aces

Western Mail DENIS SMITH is confident he has "lightning fast" defenders to stop Swansea City strikers James Thomas and Jamie Wood in their tracks in today's Welsh derby at The Racecourse. Wood and Thomas, who scored a goal apiece in the 3-2 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Worthington Cup in midweek, are forming an explosive partnership after being snapped up by Swansea in the summer. Player-coach Nick Cusack believes the pacy 23-year-olds are "as good as any" strikers in the Third Division and hopes their impressive form continues in North Wales as Swansea seek to haul themselves away from the bottom of the league. But Smith, who has presided over two victories, two draws and two defeats so far this season, believes his players are quick enough to cope with the attacking threat posed by Thomas and Wood. "I have three centre-backs - Shaun Pejic, Dan Bennett and Stephen Roberts - who shouldn't be beaten for pace," said Smith. "Don't get me wrong, I know what James Thomas can do - I thought he would become a big star when I saw him play at Blackburn last season - and Jamie Wood is also dangerous. "But we ought to be able to cope because Pejic and Bennett are both lightning fast and will keep close tabs on Thomas and Wood. "And we have a lot of pace throughout the side. We know that we can cause teams problems by using it." Wrexham are favourites to take three points from today's all-Wales encounter and not simply because they enjoy home advantage. The Dragons' Worthington Cup success against First Division Bradford City in midweek helped erase memories of their league defeat at Torquay on August 31 - and Smith hopes it will be the turning point. He said, "The midweek result may have raised a few eyebrows, but it was not a massive surprise to us because we knew we were capable of it. "But it's important we take the performance against Bradford, not Torquay, into the Swansea game. "Our season has been up and down, which is frustrating. I'd prefer to have won every game and be top of the league already, but sometimes you have to do it the hard way." Smith, who is still without the injured Lee Jones and Brian Carey, wants three points to help lift Wrexham into the top half of the table. Swansea, meanwhile, are keen to avoid the ignominy of dropping to 92nd in the English pyramid for the first time in their 82-year league history. Cusack is expected to stick largely with the side that lost to Wolves, though he insists the emphasis will again be on attack with the player-coach continuing up front alongside Thomas and Wood. "I may be described as gung-ho or cavalier in the in the way I approach the game, but I want my side to entertain," said the 36-year-old. "We have shown time and time again that we possess quality in attack and we can score goals from anywhere. "In James Thomas and Jamie Wood we have two strikers as good as any in this division and we are utilising them well. "However, what we must do is tighten up at the back and eliminate silly mistakes that are proving costly. If people don't take responsibility, we will continue to concede soft goals." Today sees a return to The Race-course for former Wrexham striker Steve Watkin, who is struggling to break into the first team at the Vetch this season. The 31-year-old could also miss out on a place among the substitutes, with John Williams and Jonathan Keaveny the current favoured replacement strikers.

Friday, September 13, 2002 Hollins: Cusack has what it takes to be boss

Evening Post Former Swansea City boss John Hollins reckons Nick Cusack has the credentials to succeed in management. Hollins, who was dismissed by ex-chairman Mike Lewis a year ago this week, watched his old club lose by the odd goal in five in a pulsating Worthington Cup tie with Wolves in midweek. Cusack was Hollins's skipper during his time at the Vetch, and the one-time Chelsea manager has backed the 36-year-old to succeed at the helm. "He is still young and he is still learning, " Hollins said. "But when I had him as a player at Swansea, he was one of those who you could give instructions to and he would carry them out on the pitch. "That sort of quality is what you need to go into management." Added Hollins: "Swansea really made a good game of it against Wolves - Nick obviously did his homework and then ran himself into the ground. "Now they need to take that edge they showed to Wrexham because it's all about picking up points. "If they show the same spirit and fight, they can do well."

Friday, September 13, 2002 More of the same

Evening Post Nick Cusack is hoping that Wednesday night's Worthington Cup thriller with Wolves will be the catalyst for improvement in the league - starting at Wrexham tomorrow. The player-manager picked up on Wolves boss Dave Jones's remarks that sometimes teams raise themselves for big games and find it difficult to reproduce that form in the next game. Cusack agreed that normally is the case but is determined that his side will not fall into that trap. "Tomorrow is the acid test, " he said, "but I don't think Wednesday was a onegame wonder. The way we've played in the past two or three games suggests we have got the opportunity to take things on. "I believe we will continue to score goals - we've scored two in almost every game. "I was more satisfied with the defending against Wolves. Although we conceded three goals, it wasn't a case of basic schoolboy errors. "Generally I could not fault the lads and I don't think we're far away from a couple of wins which would transform our season." Cusack was impressed with the performance of a number of his players in midweek and wants that to continue. He singled out Terry Evans, skipper Kristian O'Leary and Gareth Phillips for praise, but said they have to continue that standard. "We have to be more resolute at the back and stronger mentally all over the field, " he added. "I think a couple of clean sheets and a good attacking display will give us a boost and some self-belief. "At the moment, we know we can score goals but we are fearful we are going to concede at the back of our minds. "If we can eradicate that it will obviously give us the impetus to go and win matches." Cusack is still without Neil Sharp (ankle) and Jason Smith (groin) for the trip to North Wales but Steve Watkin could force his way into the squad despite suffering a dead leg which kept him out of contention for the Wolves match. Cusack, though, is likely to stick to the same side. Meanwhile, Swansea fans not making the journey to North Wales can make the shorter trip to St Helen's to watch the Whites play Ulster for free in the Celtic League, providing they produce their season tickets. Next Saturday Whites fans can use their season tickets to see the Swans at Vetch Field against Torquay and there will be other chances throughout the winter.

Friday, September 13, 2002 Forget the Guv'nor, Gazza is number one

Evening Post Manchester United fan Gareth Phillips savoured his contest with ex-Old Trafford star Paul Ince on Wednesday - but Gazza would much rather have faced Gazza. You might think Swansea City's 5ft 8in midfield menace would view the player known as the Guv'nor as his ultimate opponent. But in actual fact Phillips, 23, would prefer to test his skills against the mercurial Paul Gascoigne. "Paul Ince is a great player, " said the man from Pontypridd, "but I always used to like watching Gascoigne playing. "I guess my style is more like Ince's and Gazza is a more creative player, but I used to love watching all his tricks and skills." He continued: "It's always great to play against the top players. "You tend to learn as you are playing, especially against someone like Ince who has so many caps and so much Premiership experience. "His class showed with his movement and touch, and that's what you have to aspire to. "I wouldn't say he was one of my favourites, but when I was growing up everyone used to like watching United and he was the Guv'nor, so it was quite something to face him." Challenge the former England captain he did and, like the home team as a whole, Phillips emerged with great credit from the 3-2 Worthington Cup defeat by Wolves. "We know Gareth's a real asset in terms of breaking things up and putting in tackles, " player-boss Nick Cusack said. "It was a great experience for him coming up against people like Ince, and I've told Gareth he can be a great player for us if he just plays it simple when he's on the ball." With just two league goals to his name since his debut in early 1999, Phillips is not the type to grab the headlines every Saturday. But the former Welsh Under-21 is a cog in Cusack's side, with his brand of no-nonsense midfield play part of the manager's masterplan. "I was left out against York a couple of weeks ago and was lucky to get a chance to come on so early against Hartlepool last weekend, " Phillips added. "Hopefully I won't lose my place in the side again too soon and we can start climbing the table. "We showed once again against Wolves that we are dangerous going forward - James Thomas and Jamie Wood look as good as any strikers in the division. "Now we should take confidence from the Wolves game into Wrexham tomorrow and I'm sure that if we can cut out the silly mistakes at the back, we are capable of getting three points and starting to go up the league."

Thursday, September 12, 2002 BATTLING SWANS HIT BY KILLER STING-RAE

Evening Post Sky Television got value for money once again at Vetch Field last night as Swansea City pushed First Division Wolves all the way for a place in the Worthington Cup second round. The satellite broadcaster's recent visits to South West Wales include the 4-1 demolition of Northampton in the Third Division championship season and last year's memorable 4-0 thrashing of Queens Park Rangers in the FA Cup. And while Swansea may have finished up losing to Wolves, Nick Cusack's side played their part in a cracking cup tie for the armchair neutrals. The team placed 90th of 92 in the Football League tables against another on the verge of the Premiership would not seem the perfect recipe for a close-fought, entertaining encounter. But Swansea belied their lowly status - and the patchy early-season form which has put them there - to give the Black Country giants a run for their money. Indeed, Wolves's full firstteam were given a real scare in the first half as Swansea twice took the lead to send the vociferous home crowd wild. It was only in the second period that Dave Jones's band of ex-Premiership stars stamped their authority - and 12 minutes from the end before an unstoppable Alex Rae drive saved the Sky cameras rolling through half-an-hour of extratime. "They were very, very good opposition with very good players, " player-boss Cusack said, "and the boys can hold their heads up high. "They played with a lot of spirit, kept going until the end and deserve a lot of credit. "Sometimes when the television cameras are here and you are put in the spotlight, Third Division players can under-perform. "But I thought we played with a lot of confidence, knew what we were doing and gave them a really good game, so I'm pleased." Wolves might have wondered if Swansea 2002 was going to be the latest in a long line of unexpected League Cup exits after the first quarter. The excellent Roger Freestone had already saved from Dean Sturridge and Ludo Pollet and seen Kris O'Leary get in the way of Shaun Newton's shot when Swansea went ahead after just seven minutes. Back up front where he started his career a decade-anda-half ago, Cusack won a freekick just outside the visitors' box. Paul Reid stepped over the dead ball as a decoy before James Thomas marked his comeback from injury with a lofted, curling strike which went in via the underside of the bar. The Vetch erupted, and suddenly there were thoughts of an upset. But after Pollet had wasted another chance, Nathan Blake met Rae's flighted pass perfectly to nod home off the post. The equaliser must have tasted sweet for the former Cardiff City striker, though it failed to silence the boo-boys. The man on the bench for Wales in Finland last weekend received a roasting from the home crowd each time he went close to the ball. Freestone parried Denis Irwin's fierce strike to deny Wolves the lead, before Swansea nudged in front again in the 22nd minute. After a crisp passing move, Terry Evans stepped up from the back to provide the killer ball as Swansea showed their attacking prowess not for the first time this season. James Thomas fended off Pollet before pulling back sweetly for partner-in-crime Jamie Wood, who fired past Michael Oakes from 12 yards. Thoughts of a giant-killing act returned, but again the lead was short lived as Pollet ended a game of head tennis with an overhead kick which crept inside Freestone's far post. Swansea huffed and puffed, but from there on a shock rarely looked on the cards. Wolves turned the screw after the break, and only Freestone denied the Premiershiphopefuls the lead before the 78th-minute. Then, after brilliant saves from Newton and Blake, the former Welsh international stopper could only watch in despair as Rae's rocket sent Wolves through. "When it was 2-1 I thought we could have gone on and won the game, " added Cusack. "Their equaliser came from a centre-half who would normally sky it but took a touch like Maradona, and their third goal was just one of those strikes. "But I cannot praise my players enough for their efforts. They did not freeze, and the way they passed the ball and put them under pressure, we looked a decent side. "They took responsibility, all wanted the ball and caused a very good side problems going forward before being pipped at the post. "Onwards and upwards is the message. We've got to go Wrexham on Saturday and be positive." Be positive, indeed, and produce a similar performance to last night in order to win some much-needed league points. Their spell in the Worthington Cup limelight over, the plan must be for Swansea to attract the cameras once again with a sustained effort in the league.

Thursday, September 12, 2002 THE TV HOT-SHOTS

Evening Post Nick Cusack vowed to keep hold of prize assets James Thomas and Jamie Wood after the young strike pair shone in front of the Sky television cameras last night. The two 23-year-olds netted inside the first 22 minutes as First Division Wolves were given a fright in the Worthington Cup opener at Vetch Field. With his dynamic duo in such form, Cusack will be confident of climbing the Third Division table, and he has no plans to lose either summer signing. "We will have to make sure we keep them because they are vital to us, " said Swansea's player-boss. "I said beforehand that they would give any First Division defence problems and they proved me right. I think we've got two really outstanding players there. "They work tremendously hard, are very strong and committed and have an eye for goal. "I can see them going on from here and having great careers. It's just a question of how far they can go. "They have got to keep working hard and we have got to keep advising them and helping them." Swansea-born Thomas took just seven minutes to announce his return from injury last night, floating a stunning 20yard free-kick in off the bar to put Swansea ahead. After Nathan Blake's leveller, Thomas turned supplier for Wood as the home side went in front again. Ludo Pollet equalised before Alex Rae snatched victory 12 minutes from the end after Wolves had taken the sting out of an entertaining contest. "I was very pleased with the performance overall, " added Cusack. "I ask myself now what sort of a team is going to go out on Saturday, and it had better be that one. "We need three points and I'm sure if we play like that we can beat anybody in this division. "I think the crowd were entertained and people liked what they saw - with the system we are playing we might concede a few goals, but we are likely to score a few too. "Now we must turn these good performances into league points and people might start getting a bit excited, which would be nice.

Thursday, September 12, 2002 HOLIDAY AWARD SOOTHES THE PAIN

Evening Post Sky man-of-the-match Michael Howard's moment of glory was tinged with disappointment last night, despite walking off with a bottle of champagne and a five-star holiday to Bali. Former Bradford boss Chris Kamara voted Howard the best player on the pitch in the 3-2 cup defeat but the ex-Tranmere trainee would have much preferred a win, which he reckons the team would have deserved. "It's great to win the holiday, " he said, "but we're all a little disappointed in the dressing room after the game. "They're a good side who have spent a lot of money and we gave them a run for their money. But we should have been able to hold on especially after going 1-0 up then 2-1 up. "Perhaps if we could have held on at 2-1 up until halftime it would have been different." The modest Howard, who has a trip for two worth £2,500 courtesy of Swansea sponsors The Travel House to look forward to, wasn't quite sure whether he had done enough to earn the man-of-the-match accolade. "You're never sure how well you have done when you walk off the pitch, " he said. "I thought I did all right, I made one or two mistakes but put some good crosses in. "But all the lads did well, Roger made some great saves and James Thomas scored that great goal, so it could have gone to anyone." Howard admitted last night's improved performance would mean nothing if not repeated against Wrexham on Saturday. "That's what the gaffer (Nick Cusack) has told us, " he added, "and all the players agreed. "There are plenty of positives but you have to have those otherwise you start going backwards. "We played well tonight. Everyone was expecting us to get beaten 4-0 or 5-0 and in the end it took a great goal to beat us. "But we have to carry that forward otherwise it's all for nothing. It's pointless playing like that if we don't do the business in the league matches."

Thursday, September 12, 2002 Cusack praises commitment and passion of his players

Western Mail NICK CUSACK praised his side's endeavour against Wolverhampton Wanderers - and called for them to reproduce it in the Welsh derby at Wrexham on Saturday. The player-coach said Swansea "did themselves proud" in front of the Sky Sports cameras and felt they could have staged a Worthington Cup giant-killing after taking a 2-1 lead in the first half. "I was very pleased with the performance and the work-rate," said Cu-sack, who featured in a three-pronged Swans attack. "We possibly should've gone on to win the game after going 2-1 up because we placed ourselves in the driving seat. "Roger (Freestone) made some great saves to keep us in the match at times and, in the end, we were pipped at the post by a fantastic shot from Alex Rae - there was nothing we could've done about that. "I was pleased with how we defended. Wolves had some big guns up front - Dean Sturridge and Nathan Blake - but we performed well against them. "The boys can hold their heads up high. And certain individuals can extract a great deal of confidence when you consider they were up against players such as Paul Ince and Denis Irwin." Cusack said he was confident Swansea City would start climbing the Third Division table if they displayed the same "passion and commitment" in their league campaign. He said, "Our performance against Wolves was fantastic, but it's vital we take that into the Wrexham match."

Thursday, September 12, 2002 Swans within a shout of a giant-killing

Western Mail SWANSEA CITY lost a Worthington Cup-tie but none of their self respect last night by matching the might and muscle of First Division Wolverhampton Wanderers in a thrilling Vetch Field encounter. Nick Cusack's side produced a first-class performance against a team with Premiership aspirations and were in with a shout of claiming another notable cup giant-killing until Alex Rae netted Wolves' decisive goal after 78 minutes. The League Cup in its various guises has been much-maligned down the years but last night it proved it retains the power to excite and enthrall. With players of the calibre of Paul Ince, Denis Irwin and Rae in their line-up, Wolves were always certain to form the main attraction but Swansea more than played their part in creating a fascinating spectacle for the disappointing 4,799 crowd. The First Division club possessed plenty of muscle and acceleration but Swansea looked just as dangerous going forward. Swansea can draw strength from their performance and use it to inspire ahead of Saturday's Welsh derby at Wrexham. Last night player-coach Cusack made three changes to the team that collected a 2-2 draw against Hartle-pool at the weekend. Back came James Thomas, who missed the last three games with a groin problem, Lee Jenkins and Gareth Phillips. Neil Sharp was out with damaged ankle ligaments, while Jonathan Keaveny and David Theobald dropped to the bench. The defenders were forced to retreat after only 50 seconds when former Manchester United star Ince released striker Dean Sturridge from the halfway line. Fortunately for the Swans, the former Leicester City striker's effort was aimed too close to Roger Freestone who was able to block. Wolves were showing their Premiership potential but it was their Third Division opponents who went ahead in some style. Cusack won Swansea a free-kick 20 yards out and Thomas curled it into the top right-hand corner of the net. Seven minutes later ex-Cardiff City striker Nathan Blake earned a brief respite from the heckling and jeering when he pulled Wolves level. Former Sunderland midfielder Alex Rae crossed and Blake's header sneeked in off the right upright. Equilibrium had been restored, but there was no let up to the ferocious pace and, after 22 minutes, the Swans edged in front again. Thomas was again involved, picking up a defence-splitting pass from Evans and beating off the challenge of two defenders before pulling back to Wood who rolled past Wolves 'keeper Michael Oakes. The fourth goal of the night came in the 33rd minute, a Wolves corner the cue for a spot of head tennis in the 18-yard box before Sturridge popped up to place a decisive header beyond the grasp of Freestone. The 34-year-old 'keeper prevented Wolves from going ahead for the first time 10 minutes after the interval when he instinctively pushed former Charlton midfielder Shaun Newton's effort out for a corner. Freestone kept Swansea in it again in the 73rd minute by palming out a Blake shot that spun towards goal after deflecting off Jenkins. But the Swans fell behind and out of this year's competition five minutes later when Irwin delivered a deep corner and Icelandic defender Ludovic Pollet headed back towards Alex Rae who produced an unstoppable left-foot strike just inside the area.

Wednesday, September 11, 2002 NOW LET'S MAKE THE VETCH A FORTRESS

Evening Post James Thomas wants to turn Vetch Field into a fortress - starting tonight against First Division giants Wolves. The striker, back in the team after missing three games with a groin injury, reckons it's time Swansea started winning their home games and tonight would be the perfect opportunity to start a run. "The crowd at the Vetch are always noisy, " said Thomas. "I think Swansea is a hard place to come for any team. We need to make the Vetch a fortress and we need to win our home games. "We're on a big stage tonight as the game's live on Sky and the players are in the public eye. "There might be a bit of added pressure but hopefully we can rise to that and perform on the night. "We might just be able to upset their rhythm and with a big crowd behind us you never know." Thomas has been kicking his heels for three games since picking up a groin strain during the 2-0 win over Bournemouth - Swansea's only success of the season. He is hoping to pick up where he left off by renewing his partnership with Jamie Wood, but now he is joined by a third man up front and he was pretty impressed with what he saw from him against Hartlepool. "Nick Cusack was the man of the match on Saturday as far as I am concerned, " he said. "He battled hard, won all the flick-ons and scored a goal. I am looking forward to playing with him. "With Cus in there as well he can win all the headers and Jamie and I can feed off the scraps. "Winning the headers is not the best part of my game, although I'm a big lad, so it's good to have the boss in there so I can concentrate on the best parts of my game." Having been frustrated with his inactivity, Thomas cannot wait to get back into action. "It's a big game for the club and the players, " he added. "Hopefully we can give them a game. "If we can keep it tight at the back and nick a goal, then who knows what could happen. "From the start of the season we haven't gone a game without scoring yet. So if we can do that and the boys can sort it out at the back then we can definitely cause an upset. "A good result will give us confidence and hopefully we can get a couple of wins under our belt and raise it even higher."

Wednesday, September 11, 2002 FREESTONE CALLS ON NEW BOYS TO MAKE A TV HIT

Evening Post Roger Freestone has urged Swansea City's summer signings to show their worth when the Sky cameras roll at Vetch Field tonight. The Worthington Cup first-round clash with the mighty Wolverhampton Wanderers will be beamed around Britain on satellite television. And Freestone is hoping the exposure will cue top-notch performances from the five likely starters who came to South Wales in the summer: James Thomas, Jamie Wood, Dave Moss, Paul Reid and David Theobald. As well as probable substitutes David Smith and Matt Murphy, all the new boys arrived after being released elsewhere. "Being live on television means the game's a great chance for people to show other clubs what they are missing, " said the former Welsh international stopper, "and hopefully they will do that. "We've got to treat this as our cup final because Wolves are a massive club and it should be a great occasion. We've usually done well on Sky and we've caused upsets in the past, so we've got nothing to lose." Swansea's Sky TV record is impressive, with only two defeats coming in seven appearances - against Peterborough (FA Cup) and Northampton (play-off final). They have enjoyed two wins and a draw against Cardiff, plus memorable victories over Northampton (4-1) in the championship season and Queens Park Rangers (4-0) in last year's FA Cup. "Another upset like QPR would be nice, " added Freestone, "though I'll settle for just 1-0. "I am not being negative when I say Wolves are obviously favourites. They are a strong, quality outfit and everybody knows it's going to be very difficult. "But we are looking forward to it. We have scored nearly two goals a game this season which is almost unheard of at Swansea City really. "The frustrating thing is that we are conceding too many goals. We've been working hard in training, and hopefully we can solve our defensive problems in front of a big crowd tonight. "Once we stop conceding, we are going to start winning games." The Wing Stand will be open as normal after Sky abandoned plans to base their studio there.

Wednesday, September 11, 2002 THOMAS READY

Evening Post Star striker James Thomas returns to spearhead Swansea City's three-pronged attack on Wolves in the Worthington Cup first round tonight (7.45). The ex-Blackburn forward has recovered from the groin problem which has forced him out of Swansea's last three matches and will join Jamie Wood and playermanager Nick Cusack up front. "I have always said since becoming a manger that I want to be positive and go for the jugular of teams, " Cusack said. "Maybe that's led to us conceding a few goals at the other end, I don't know, but we will go at Wolves tonight. "We'll have a very attacking look about us and I intend to keep that all season. Come hell or high water, we will go out and try to entertain." He continued: "James Thomas is back which is a real boost for us. "I've told him and Jamie Wood that they will cause problems for any team, and that Wolves will not come across a livelier front two in the First Division." Thomas replaces Jonathan Keaveny, with Andrew Mumford for the injured Neil Sharp the only other likely change from last Saturday's encouraging 2-2 draw with Hartlepool. Overcoming Premiership wannabes Wolves - who will be at full-strength - would be a major shock, though Swansea should be encouraged by the Black Country side's dismal recent League Cup record. In the last six seasons, Wolves have fallen to Swindon (twice), Oxford, Bournemouth, Reading and Wycombe. "It's a great game for the guys to be involved in, " added Cusack. "They are a big club with lots of tradition and we'll be up against household names. "But if the players give their all and play to their full potential then we can cause an upset. "We've done it before against West Ham. They took one look at the pitch, saw the rain coming down and the hostile atmosphere and that was it. "That really levelled things up, and hopefully we'll get something similar tonight." A minute's silence will be held before kick-off to mark the first anniversary of the September 11 attacks.

Wednesday, September 11, 2002 NOW CUP-TIE POSER

Evening Post Nick Cusack must patch-up his creaky defence before First Division heavyweights Wolves come to Vetch Field tomorrow. Swansea City's playermanager goes into the mouthwatering Worthington Cup clash with a defensive headache after Neil Sharp was ruled out of action for a month. It was confirmed yesterday that the 24-year-old centre-back suffered ankle ligament damage in last Saturday's draw with Hartlepool. With Jason Smith still suffering from a groin problem, Cusack has only two available central defenders for the firstround tie - Dave Theobald and club captain Kristian O'Leary. Unless he switches to four at the back, Cusack must therefore choose between midfielder Andrew Mumford and full-back Terry Evans to fill the third defensive spot. If striker James Thomas recovers from groin trouble in time to play in front of the Sky TV cameras, Cusack could even switch himself to defence after his man-of-the-match display in attack against Hartlepool. Sharp was carried off just 13 minutes into Saturday's contest after what appeared an innocuous clearance. "It's bad news for me, I can't believe what I've done, " he said. "I volleyed the ball clear and turned over my ankle as I landed. It didn't seem serious, but I knew as soon as I tried to put weight on it that I had to come off. "It's a real blow and I'm gutted that I'm going to miss the Wolves game, but there's not a lot I can do other than put my feet up and relax for the time being." There is better news of young striker Jonathan Keaveny, who will be fit tomorrow despite limping off at the weekend with groin trouble, while Lee Jenkins could also figure after a mild bout of concussion. Meanwhile, tickets are now available in the club shop for the trip to Hull City on September 28 and for the game at Oxford on October 12. Buying now rather than on matchday guarantees a significant reduction at both Boothferry Park and the Kassam Stadium.

Wednesday, September 11, 2002 Blake aims to silence the Vetch boo-boys

Western Mail NATHAN BLAKE aims to silence the Vetch Field boo-boys by dumping Swansea City out of the Worthington Cup when he leads the attack for Wolverhampton Wanderers tonight. Eight years since he left Ninian Park, the former Cardiff City striker is expecting "as hostile a reception as ever" when he faces the Bluebirds' fierce rivals in tonight's intriguing first-round encounter. But the 30-year-old insisted the vitriol wouldn't distract him from helping Wolves progress to the second round of the competition in what is Swansea's biggest match since they entertained Derby County - then a Premiership side - in the FA Cup fourth round in January 1999. "I was booed and heckled the last time I played at the Vetch and I'm expecting much the same this time," said the Wales striker, who made more than 130 appearances for Cardiff between 1990 and 1994. "I will no doubt get a red-hot reception and probably have the usual Cardiff stuff thrown at me. "It can get abusive and is sometimes out of order. It's particularly bad when you turn round and see fathers with small children shouting abuse. "But's that's down to them. It doesn't bother me at all - I was speaking to (Swansea-born) John Hartson at the weekend and having a laugh about it. "Even though I always received a hostile reception at the Vetch as a Cardiff player, I enjoyed the occasion. They were good games to play in. "The best way of shutting up the hecklers is scoring a goal or two. But it doesn't always happen like that. A Wolves victory would be good enough for me." Cardiff-born Blake, an unused substitute during Wales's Euro 2004 victory against Finland at the weekend, said the West Midlands club won't be overawed by an intimidating Vetch Field atmosphere. But he insisted Wolves would not take victory as guaranteed. "There's no way we will take Swansea for granted," said the former Sheffield United, Bolton and Blackburn striker. "As a team, we were disappointing in our last game (a 3-2 defeat at Wimbledon) and we'll try to get back on track, while showing Swansea respect. "But I don't need to tell my teammates how intimidating the Vetch can be. The boys at Wolves have plenty of experience of playing at tight grounds with hostile atmospheres. It won't worry us." Blake, who made a £1.5m switch to Molineux in September 2001, arrives fresh from international duty and "itching" to add to the two goals he has netted so far this season. "I haven't played a game for 10 days so I can't wait to get out there," he said. "It was disappointing to be left on the bench in Finland, but that's the manager's decision. It was still a great experience. And you certainly can't argue with the result."

Wednesday, September 11, 2002 Fans have vital role to play

Western Mail NICK CUSACK has urged Swansea City supporters to generate the same atmosphere that helped the club to a momentous cup victory over West Ham when Wolverhampton Wanderers arrive tonight. The intimidating Vetch Field atmosphere was one of the major factors behind Swansea's magnificent 1-0 win over the Premiership Hammers in the third round of the FA Cup in January 1999. The vociferous home supporters made life just as difficult for Derby County in the following round and the east Midlands club had to labour for a 1-0 win which came courtesy of an 81st-minute goal. And last November Second Division side Queens Park Rangers felt the full force of the fans when Swansea hammered them 4-0 in an FA Cup first-round meeting. That game was televised live by Sky Sports and player-coach Cusack believes the supporters - around 6,000 are expected tonight - can help Swansea cause another cup upset when the cameras return for the first round Worthington Cup clash. "I'm sure there will be another vociferous crowd against Wolves," said Cusack. "We've got to use that to our advantage like we have in the past. "When West Ham came down they took one look at the pitch, it was raining and there was a very hostile atmosphere...they just didn't like it. "That game was a real leveller and, hopefully, against Wolves that sort of situation will play into our hands." Cusack, who is boosted by the return of striker James Thomas, believes his Third Division side should enjoy the occasion tonight - and believe themselves capable of causing an upset. "It should be a great game," he said. "Wolves are riding high in the First Division. They are a club with lots of tradition and players who are household names. "My players shouldn't need any motivating. I know it's a cliche, but they really ought to be looking forward to this one. "They will have to give their all - it's as simple as that. And if they do that, if everyone plays to their full potential, we're capable of causing an upset. "We go into the game with confidence. We know we can score goals and it's up to certain individuals to take responsibility at the back; to en-sure they do their job properly." Cusack, who could drop back into midfield tonight, said he was delighted to have Thomas back after the former Blackburn striker missed the last three games with a groin problem. And the player-coach even claimed, "Wolves possibly won't play against two livelier forwards this season than James and Jamie Wood - even in their own division. "Those two will cause problems for any team - I'm convinced of that. I feel very positive with that combination up front." Wolves, whose main aim this season is to finally win promotion to the Premiership after throwing it away last year, are expected to include their two major summer signings, former Manchester United stars Paul Ince and Denis Irwin.

Tuesday, September 10, 2002 Reid eager to do battle with Ince

Western Mail PAUL REID aims to win the battle for midfield supremacy when he goes head to head with Paul Ince in tomorrow's mouth-watering Worthington Cup clash at the Vetch. The contest between Swansea City midfielder Reid and Wolverhampton Wanderers star Ince, one of the First Division club's big summer signings, is an eagerly-awaited aspect of the televised first-round encounter. And 34-year-old Reid, who was born in the West Midlands and has Wolves-supporting friends, said he would "introduce" himself to the former Middlesbrough and Manchester United midfielder in customary fashion. "I'll put in a few tackles to see how he reacts," said the combative midfielder, who joined Swansea in the summer after being released by Bury. "It will be interesting because I don't think I've played against Paul Ince before. The fans will be looking forward to seeing us square up in the middle of the park. Though when you're out there, you don't really give much thought to who you're up against." Oldbury-born Reid is especially determined to help Swansea cause an upset as he hails from the Black Country. "A number of my friends are Wolves fans and it would be nice to put one over on them," said the former Bradford, Leicester and Oldham player. "I was recently talking to a West Bromwich Albion fan and, for some reason, they refer to Wolves fans as `dingles'. "Tomorrow I'd like to score a couple of goals, get interviewed on Sky Sports after the game and say `that's one for the dingle haters!'" At least 6,000 Swans supporters are expected and Reid has urged them to make the atmosphere as intimidating as possible for Dave Jones's side. "Wolves are a big club with some great players - they would be in the Premiership now had they not slipped up at the end of last season," he said. "It is by far our toughest game of the season so far but, with the crowd behind us, there's always a chance of an upset. "I've been surprised at the passion shown by the fans - it was amazing in the first game of the season against Rushden & Diamonds and, hopefully, will be that and more against Wolves." Swansea, who beat Queens Park Rangers 4-0 the last time they played in front of live cameras, will be without defender Neil Sharp after he sprained ankle ligaments in Saturday's 2-2 draw against Hartlepool. With Jason Smith still absent, Terry Evans is likely to drop back into the centre of defence alongside Kris O'Leary and David Theobald.

Tuesday, September 10, 2002 Wood just can't wait

Mirror WOLVES' Worthington Cup date at Swansea this Wednesday will be an intriguing glance into the past for Jamie Wood. Paul Ince, Denis Irwin and a battery of Sky TV cameras - it'll be just like Old Trafford again for the Swans striker. Three years ago Wood harboured real dreams of a breakthrough at Manchester United. But, released months after the Red Devils' treble in 1999, Wood found himself on route to unfashionable Belgium team Royal Antwerp, Hull and Halifax. Now he's aiming to regain some limelight at Wolves' expense. Wood said: "On paper it looks a difficult match, but on our day I think we are a match for anyone. "On the opening day of the season we should have beaton Rushden and Diamonds - and many people feel they could go on to win the Third Division." Even if Wolves dump the Swans out at the Worthington Cup first round stage, Wood is confident of his club's future. He said: "Swansea have a relatively new squad. I think there is quality at the Vetch. There are certainly rosy times ahead."

Monday, September 09, 2002 Carry on Cus! it's the way forward

Evening Post Nick Cusack is determined to carry on leading from the front in Wednesday's Worthington Cup first-round tie against First Division big shots Wolves at Vetch Field. The Swansea City playermanager put in a mammoth display in a three-pronged strike force in the 2-2 draw with Hartlepool and brought his side level with a 38th-minute header from a Paul Reid corner. His goal should have proved the catalyst to a second home win and it seemed it would when Jamie Wood rolled home a penalty four minutes laterr. But Hartlepool cashed in on more poor defending and levelled things a minute before the break. Cusack was pleased with the overall display but could not hide his disappointment at the defending. ''I have got a bit of a defensive problem. I told them that we can't have people having free headers and free shots in the box. It's as simple as that. ''I gave them a bit of a roasting at half-time but I thought second half we were better defensively. We said there's no way we can concede another goal and we didn't and we looked a bit stronger.'' As well as Cusack's strong display there were good performances from David Moss, Jon Keaveny and substitute John Williams as Swansea went for broke going forward. Moss saw an effort drift just wide and then hit the post with a late header, while Keaveny's pace caused problems for the Hartlepool defence and Williams looked sharp when he came on. ''On the whole we were the better team, '' added Cusack. ''We put them under a lot of pressure and they would have been happy to go away with a point.'' Cusack led by example and played like a man possessed for the cause. ''I love being out there playing, '' he said. ''Over the past couple of weeks I have been desperate to get out there. It's important for a player-manager to lead by example. ''If I can do that and the players can see that I am putting 100 per cent effort in then I am sure it can galvanise them. ''If that's the way it is then great. I said to the players 'run yourselves into the ground and if we have to put someone on to replace you then fine'. ''The players have got to have that in their armoury. ''I am not going to be one of those managers who sits back and tries to nick a point. We went for it against Hartlepool and I hope I can get some credit for that.'' Sharp looks higly unlikely to make the Wolves match after leaving the ground on crutches and James Thomas is also doubtful despite being close to fitness after his groin injury.

Monday, September 09, 2002 Swans salvage some pride

Western Mail IT was the same old story - conceding an early goal through some sloppy defending - but this time with a new twist and a much hap-pier ending. After going a goal down, Swans fought back to lead 2-1 before being caught cold within a minute just before the break. They had to settle for a point and a certain amount of revenge. The ghost of one of the most demoralising defeats in Swansea history was emphatically exorcised - thanks to a man-of-the-match performance from player-manager Nick Cusack. Quite why captain Kris O'Leary was chosen by the sponsors as the official man of the match must remain a mystery. He performed well enough on his return from suspension but Cusack, playing behind the front strikers and linking with midfield, was by far Swansea's best player. The team that Nick built responded in style to deny promotion favourites Hartlepool a prolonged stay as outright leaders of Division Three. But as he basks in the glow of an inspirational personal performance, Cusack knows that Swansea's defence must be tightened up if they're to stay up. The Swans fell behind in the 14th minute. To be fair, Neil Sharp had just limped off with ankle ligament trouble and Swansea were still switching from their adventurous 3-4-3 formation to a more traditional 4-3-3 when a cross from the left arrived at Gordon Watson's feet on the edge of the area. His shot was deflected to Mark Tinkler, who hit a crisp right-foot volley into the far corner past a helpless Roger Freestone. With substitute Gareth Phillips slotting well into midfield alongside David Moss and Paul Reid, the Swans recovered well. Jonathan Keavney's run from halfway in the 17th minute led to Jamie Wood bringing a fine save from former Welsh Under-21 cap Tony Williams as the Maesteg-born 'keeper cleared the low, well-struck shot with his legs. But Swansea were not to be denied and 10 minutes later when Reid's in-swinging corner from the right reached Cusack on the far past, the manager planted a firm header into the top corner. His array of intelligent flicks and chips helped to keep Hartlepool on their toes and Swansea moving forward until he was understandably substituted just before the end. After full-back Paul Arnison had shot wide and then over, Hartlepool suddenly found themselves in trouble. Three minutes before the break, another Reid corner from the right was handled by Tinkler, who protested in vain that he had been pushed, and Jamie Wood coolly slotted home. But a minute later, Arnison's right-wing cross was back-heeled by Eifion Williams for Watson to easily score from eight yards. Although the second half proved goal-less, both sides had golden opportunities to win. The 62nd-minute introduction of John Williams for Keaveny had an immediate impact with Moss shooting narrowly wide from just outside the area. Midway through the second half, Ritchie Humphreys swung in a beautifully-flighted left-wing cross only for the unmarked Watson on the far post to head the ball across rather than towards the Swansea goal - allowing Michael Howard to clear. Five minutes later, Williams crossed from the left but Moss's header hit the post and then bounced into the grateful hands of the 'keeper. After two successive defeats, Swansea thoroughly deserved to take a point from much-fancied Hartlepool.

Sunday, September 08, 2002 Swansea City 2-2 Hartlepool United

South Wales Echo SWANSEA City fought back from being a goal behind after 14 minutes at the Vetch but had to be content with a point. Mark Tinkler put the visitors ahead but Swansea's Nick Cusack got one back after 28 minutes. Just before half-time, Jamie Wood struck from the penalty spot to give the Swans a lead they should have taken to the interval, but from the restart, Gordon Watson struck to put Hartlepool back on level terms. Try as they might in the second half, Swansea were unable to break through the Hartlepool defence. Swansea: Freestone, O'Leary, Theobald, Sharp, Reid, Moss, Evans, Howard, Cusack, Keaveny, Wood. Subs: David Smith, Murphy, Marsh, Phillips, Williams. Hartlepool: Anthony Williams, Barron, Lee, Westwood, Robinson, Arnison, Clarke, Humphreys, Tinkler, Eifion Williams, Watson. Subs: Provett, Henderson, Boyd, Robson, Widdrington. Referee: P Crossley (Kent).

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