Man City penalty award the turning point, says Swansea boss Francesco Guidolin
Saturday 24 September 2016 19:47, UK
Francesco Guidolin said referee Neil Swarbrick's decision to award Man City a penalty in the second half was the turning point in Swansea's 3-1 defeat on Saturday.
Mike van der Hoorn was penalised on his league debut for a foul on Kevin De Bruyne with the score 1-1 at the Liberty Stadium.
Sergio Aguero converted for his second goal of the game, and Raheem Sterling added Man City's third late on to wrap up the three points.
Guidolin felt his side matched their opponents for 60 minutes before van der Hoorn was adjudged to have fouled De Bruyne with an arm across the Belgian's face.
When asked if the penalty decision changed the game, the Swansea manager said: "Yes, of course, because after it was 2-1 and before the penalty we had some situations to score and to have the advantage.
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"The penalty was decisive because the third goal, on the counter attack, was not important.
"We played a very good game and for an hour we were at the same level as Man City. After they scored from the penalty we played well again until the end.
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"I am proud of my players because today we played the same level as Man City and Man City are the best team in the Premier League. It is not easy against this opponent."
Swansea have not won in the league since their opening day victory over Burnley, and remain a point above the relegation zone.
Guidolin would not be drawn on speculation over his position after the game, insisting his team have a bright future if they replicate their performance against City.
"I know the world of football and I know my job," he added. "For me, what is important is to work hard with my team, who have a good relationship with the players.
"If the board have something to say, it is easy, they can just call me. No problem.
"If we play in this way, we have a good future. I know after four, five and six defeats it is not easy, but I am confident because I saw this afternoon my players play a good game."
