Kick Off: 6:30pm GMT, Saturday 22nd May, Liberty Stadium, Championship Playoff Semi Final 2nd Leg
Last 5 Games:
- Swansea City LDWLW
- Barnsley WWLDL
This second leg tie must see Barnsley overturn a one goal deficit if they are to reach the playoff final, after an Andre Ayew goal in the first leg has given Swansea the advantage.
Swansea finished their campaign in 4th place on 80 points, with many hard earned results putting them in the playoff positions this year.
On the final day of the season, Swansea lost 2-0 to already promoted Watford. Second half goals from Andre Gray and Isaac Success gave the Hornets the three points, but could the Welsh team face Watford again next season in the Premier League.
Barnsley finished their season in 5th, 2 points behind Swansea, as they unexpectedly reached the playoffs after an incredible campaign.
The team from Yorkshire also faced an already promoted team, facing Norwich on the final day of the season. Barnsley found themselves 2-1 up at the break. However, Adam Idah pulled one back within ten minutes of the second half whistle.
Last season, Barnsley finished just one point above the relegation zone. Valerien Ismael has been able to work hard with his players and bring them to new heights this season.
The first leg of this tie saw Swansea take a 1-0 advantage thanks to Ayew’s curling effort which Bradley Collins had no chance of saving.
However, Barnsley did have their chances of scoring. Daryl Dike showcased his strength and aerial presence, but Marc Guehi and Freedie Woodman helped make sure Swansea kept a clean sheet away at Oakwell Stadium.
If you would like to see more about the match, read my match report on the 1st leg by clicking here
When these teams faced each other in the league earlier this season, Swansea came away from the game with three points on both occasions.
The first time they met this season, the Swans won 2-0, with an early goal from Jamal Lowe and an own goal by Victor Adeboyejo towards the end of the game.
In the reverse fixture, the scoreline was the same with Ben Cabango scoring just before halftime, then Lowe scored once again versus Barnsley, confirming a 2-0 win once again.
Key Players:
Marc Guehi: The young defender will have to be on top form once again if his side are to progress to the playoff final.
He made a series of blocks, tackles and interceptions in the first leg, and was key to making sure Barnsley didn’t find the back on the net.
Alex Mowatt: The Midfielder must inspire his team and fire them to a comeback.
The Englishman has scored 8 goals and has 7 assists to his name this campaign, and will likely need to add to that if the team from Yorkshire will progress to Wembley.
If you would like to read one of my recent stories click here
Final Whistle 