Britton helps Robins to Swans win

Tuesday, September 29th 2020

City made it two wins from two Professional Development League games with a hat-trick from Louis Britton to beat Swansea at The Optima Stadium.

Britton scored in the final minute of the first half and then again in the 55th and 72nd minutes, as the Robins followed up their 2-1 victory over Cardiff with a win over the Swans.

It was an energetic display from the young Robins, who never stopped running to put the South Wales side under pressure throughout, and Britton, a latecomer to City's programme from non-league Mangotsfield, played his part.

Under-23s coach Alex Ball said: “Our shape was really good throughout and we scored three really good goals. I am pleased for Louis because he has worked really hard over the last few weeks to get on top of his game. But right throughout the team there was a great attitude to press the ball and that’s a mentality that runs right through the club.”

City led 1-0 at the break thanks to Britton’s superb close control before unleashing his left foot and firing past Swansea keeper Jamie Searle.

Sam Bell battles for the ball. Picture credit: Will Cooper

Britton had signalled City’s intent after just five minutes when he fired over from outside the box.

They had another chance when captain Opi Edwards slotted a perfect ball down the touchline for Sam Bell whose shot hit Searle as he closed him down.

The Swans had their chance but City keeper Harvey Wiles-Richards was equal to the challenge and tipped Bradley Gibbings’ volley over.

City came out firing in the second half with Ayman Benarous running hard at the Swans defence and his shot was just pushed wide by Searle.

Britton extended the lead when he pounced on a rebound to slide the ball home and then he wrapped up victory when he combined with Bell to fire home for his third.

City: Harvey Wiles-Richards, Barney Soady, Vince Harper, Ryley Towler, Tom Harrison, Josh Owers, Opi Edwards (capt), Ayman Benarous, Louis Britton, Sam Bell, Zac Smith. Substitutes: Alex Scott (for Zac Smith 75), Prince Henry (Britton 75), Harry Leeson (Belarous 85). Unused sub: James Walker.