Player Ratings: Swansea City 2-1 Luton Town

Luton Town succumbed to their 9th away defeat in a row on Sunday afternoon, losing 2-1 against Swansea City as the pressure continues to mount on Rob Edwards.

It seems to be the same story every time the Hatters are away from Kenilworth Road this season, and yet another disappointing defeat on the road means that the Town will end 2024 with only one away win in the calendar year. Of course, the first half of this embarrassing stat is caveated by the fact Rob Edwards’ side were facing the likes of Liverpool and Man City on their travels, but relegation has provided almost no relief. The results are not even the most worrying thing currently, as the way in which the Town are being comprehensively dominated by the majority of sides in the league is hugely concerning.

The Town found themselves in front with just five minutes on the clock, when Swansea keeper Lawrence Vigouroux fired a misplaced pass straight at Carlton Morris, who duly converted into the empty net. Despite being gifted an early lead, the Hatters were unable to take control of the contest, and Swansea dominated the first half. It seemed to be only a matter of time before the hosts levelled the scores, and so it proved to be, when Goncalo Franco fired home from close range just before the break.

Luton did start to improve in the second half, but their progress was cut short when youngster Joe Johnson was sent off for a second yellow card, in the 67th minute. It was always going to be an uphill task with ten men, and the inevitable Swansea winner came one minute into stoppage time, with Myles Peart-Harris converting at the back post. The result sees the Town drop to 19th, just four points clear of the drop zone.

Player Ratings

Kaminski -6

As always, Luton’s shot stopper put in a very assured performance, and bailed out those in front of him on multiple occasions. The Belgian made seven saves, including a couple of very important stops, and could do nothing about the two goals he conceded.

Chong - 5

Was always going to have a tough afternoon up against the impressive Ji-sung Eom, but looked slightly better at wing back than he has done in recent weeks. Chong was still caught out on a number of occasions, but that has to be expected when he’s playing out of position. The thing that will disappoint Town fans is the lack of attacking presence from the wing-back recently, and that was evident again on Sunday.

Holmes - 5

At this point simply staying fit is enough to keep your position in the Luton defence, but Holmes has probably earned his spot through performances as well. Was very good as the Town tried to see out the game, but unfortunately he could not help his side leave with a point.

McGuinness - 6

The summer signing must feel like he is defending all on his own sometimes, as he put in another battling display with no reward at the end of it. As the Swans bombarded the Town box in the final 20 minutes, McGuinness was nothing short of magnificent, putting his body on the line to fight for a point. However, he was unable to drag the Hatters over the line in the end.

Bell - 5

A welcome return from injury at centre back, and slotted in with a solid performance. Will hope to build his fitness and sharpness over the coming games.

Johnson - 3

You could argue the red card was unfortunate, but to make a risky challenge in the opposition’s half when on a yellow gives the referee a decision to make. Perhaps a sign of inexperience from the full back, but glimpses of his undoubted talent were evident before the sending off.

Nakamba - 3

Very poor performance from the veteran in midfield. Seemed to go backwards every time he had the ball, and even then the passes were wayward and heavy. Has been out for a long period, but there’s a real worry that his major knee injury may prevent him from returning to his best.

Clark - 4

Luton were categorically dominated in midfield throughout the contest, and despite making no real errors, Clark had very little impact on the match.

Krauß - 5

As always, the midfielder tried to spark the Town into life, with some intense pressing in the first period. At least he shows he cares, and wants to put himself about, which is more than you can say for others. However, the loanee was disappointing on the ball.

Morris - 4
Got his goal, but that was about it for the captain. Missing the quality we all know he has.

Adebayo - 4

A man who is often so talismanic for the Town, looks jaded and lethargic at the moment. Can’t seem to hold up the ball, or take on his man, and the Luton press is almost non-existent. When he’s not scoring, Adebayo brings very little to the team.

Subs

Nelson - 5

As soon as he came on the Town were reduced to ten men, which meant Nelson had to sit deep, and had no chance to show his creativity.

Walters - 5

Good to see the full back return after his long injury.

Ruddock Mpanzu - 5

Unable to help the Hatters see out the game.