Swansea City’s upturn in fortunes under Vitor Matos continued as Jay Fulton’s long-range strike secured victory over West Bromwich Albion.
Fulton found the top corner of Joe Wildsmith’s net from 25 yards – possibly with the aid of a slight deflection – to score his first goal in almost 13 months just a minute after coming off the bench.
The Scot’s effort snatched Swansea a fifth win in their past seven games and lifts Matos’ improving side to 15th in the Championship.
But West Brom’s ninth successive away defeat was another heavy blow for under-pressure boss Ryan Mason, whose side slip to 17th.
Albion were unhappy with the Swansea goal, with Nat Phillips booked for dissent as Mason’s players argued Ousmane Diakite was fouled by Ronald just before Fulton’s decisive intervention.
The first half had been something of a slow burner, with Swansea lacking the quality to find a route to goal despite being the sharper, more progressive side.
The Swans’ cause was not helped by the absence of a striker in Matos’ starting XI, with leading scorer Zan Vipotnik only featuring as a substitute and Adam Idah and Liam Cullen on the injured list.
That meant attacking midfielder Melker Widell led the home line, and the Swede had perhaps the best chance of the first half when his shot was blocked.
Marko Stamenic’s crisp 20-yard effort drew a save from West Brom keeper Wildsmith, but it was Albion who came closest to a first-half opener on the counter when Samuel Iling-Junior’s drive was pawed away at the near post by Lawrence Vigouroux.
Swansea’s control of the contest continued in the early stages of the second period, with Ben Cabango looping a header over the top before Albion suddenly flickered into life.
Karlan Grant ‘s 25-yard drive was beaten away before Mikey Johnston’s header forced Vigouroux into another saved as Swansea wobbled.
But just as Mason’s team sensed victory was possible, holding midfielder Fulton struck and West Brom were unable to muster a response.
More to follow.
