Swansea 3-1 Hull: Garry Monk admits David Meyler red card was key to victory
Sunday 5 April 2015 16:25, UK
Swansea boss Garry Monk admitted the red card to David Meyler when Hull had momentum was key to his side's 3-1 victory at the Liberty Stadium.
The hosts looked to be in command after goals from Ki Sung-Yueng and Bafetimbi Gomis gave them a 2-0 lead at the break.
However, Paul McShane’s goal immediately after the interval gave Hull the impetus and they looked likely to find another until Meyler’s lunge on Kyle Naughton earned him a straight red card.
Monk was disappointed to see his side allow Hull back into the game so easily and conceded the red card helped them.
"The performance overall deserved the win," Monk told Sky Sports. "The first half was excellent and we scored two good goals.
"But I said to the players at half-time that the second half would be different, and Hull would be up for the fight. We gave a poor goal away and Hull were fighting for their lives. It was difficult.
"The sending off gave us the momentum back and it would have been interesting to see what would have happened if it had stayed 11 v 11.
"It looked like a 50-50 ball to be honest and I would have to see it back to make a decision. I guess when you lead with your studs these days you leave yourselves open.
"The injury to Kyle [Naughton] shows the severity of it. He has gone to hospital for an X-ray, and we hope he is OK."
The Swans’ victory, which moves them within a point of equalling their record Premier League points haul, was sealed by Gomis in the dying moments, and added further proof that the French striker is finding his feet.
Monk insisted that the 29-year-old always had what it takes to be a hit on our shores and simply needed time to settle.
"I knew he would be fine all along," Monk added. "I know the quality he has, know how he works. He is looking sharper and brighter and is grasping his chance.
"It is not an easy job to score goals in the Premier League, but he is doing it well. His effort and quality is there for all to see."
