Black Stars skipper Andre Ayew fired home a delightful volley to put Swansea City ahead in their Champions Playoff semi-final first leg encounter against 10-man Brentford on Sunday.
In a fiery clash at the Liberty Stadium albeit without fans, Swansea went into the encounter knowing a win was a must since they were the home side in this one.
The Swans had qualified miraculously to the Playoffs on the last day of the Championship season and believed the winds of fortune were blowing in their direction.
They were however not going to rely on just that, as Steve Cooper’s men worked hard to put themselves in a position of winning.
An open first 45 minutes ended all square with neither side failing to score any of the numerous chances created. Happenings in the first however set up a frenetic second half for both sides.
Back from recess, the home side was awarded a deserving penalty in the 62nd minute. Brentford defender Pontus Jansson brought down Swansea attacker Ryan Brewster with referee Keith Stroud having no option than to point to the spot.
Ayew stepped up to take it but was denied by Brentford goalie Raya who guessed correctly to deny the Ghanaian.
Few minutes later Brentford will be reduced to 10 men after Rico Henry was given his marching orders for a two footed challenge on Swansea’s Conor Gallagher.
The home side capitalized on the numerical advantage and after persistent pressure, Andre Ayew fired them into the lead.
Ayew unleashed a terrific volley following some great link-up play between Gallagher and Fulton in the 81st minute.
Swansea eventually held on to their lead and finished 1-0 winners ahead of the second leg on Wednesday July 29 at London’s Griffith Park.
Both sides are fighting for a spot in the final with the eventual winner making it to the Premier League for the 2020-21 season.
30 year old Ayew has so far netted 30 goals in all competitions for Swansea City and will certainly be relied on to help his side in their quest for promotion to the English top flight.
