Defensive lapses take shine off for Rodgers

Brendan Rodgers believes securing Swansea’s top-flight status is a “monumental achievement” but admits the manner of the 4-4 draw with Wolves has taken the edge off the accomplishment.

The point picked up in Saturday’s breathless eight-goal encounter ensured the Swans are mathematically safe with two games of the season still to go.

Having been tipped by many for an immediate return to the Championship following their play-off final win at Wembley last May, the Welsh side have confounded expectations with their effective possession style.

Notable wins over Arsenal and Manchester City have been picked up along the way, and the hosts appeared on track to secure safety in style when they took a 3-0 lead inside 15 minutes against relegated Wolves.

Midfielder Andrea Orlandi opened the scoring with his first goal in two years after just 25 seconds, with Joe Allen and Nathan Dyer also finding the net.

But relegated Wolves rallied as Steven Fletcher and the outstanding Matt Jarvis struck either side of Danny Graham grabbing Swansea’s fourth goal.

And Terry Connor’s side completed their comeback in the second half as David Edwards and Jarvis found the net. And despite being assured of another season in the Premier League, Rodgers could not hide his disappointment.

“There is no doubt because of the level we are up against that this is a monumental achievement,” he said.

“I will think more over the next few days but for little Swansea City to have another season when the odds were against us, makes us really proud. I won’t forget that.

“This result was disappointing but we didn’t lose the game. I can see the real achievement of what has happened.”

Despite their remarkable fightback Wolves have still yet to taste victory under Connor’s guidance.

In 11 games since succeeding Mick McCarthy, the Molineux club have picked up just three points.

But they showed tremendous character to get back in the game after their nightmare start, especially as the match came just six days after defeat against Manchester City condemned them to spending next season in the Championship.