After three matches without a win, Swansea overcame Norwich thanks to a brace from their Slovenian striker, once again decisive. A promising victory ahead of Wednesday’s Carabao Cup clash against Manchester City.

If Manchester City was the talk of the town before the match against Norwich, by the end of Saturday afternoon, there was only one name on the fans’ lips: Zan Vipotnik. In superhero mode, the Slovenian almost single-handedly secured a crucial victory for Swansea in what promises to be a long Championship season. He was clinical : two shots, two goals. Vipotnik is now up to six goals this Championship campaign. The knowledgeable crowd at the Swansea.com Stadium seems to have found this season’s man to watch in their number 9.

The Swans’ fans didn’t have to wait long to see their star striker find the back of the net. In the 6th minute, Vipotnik made the difference. Released down the right as Swansea counterattacked, the Slovenian fired a powerful shot from a tight angle under the crossbar to give his team the lead (1–0). Swansea went ahead but were dominated for most of the first half. Norwich kept possession in the Welsh half until they finally broke through in the 41st minute. Jovon Makama tapped the ball in after being perfectly set up by Josh Sargent, who had gotten past the goalkeeper. 1–1 at halftime.

An amazing efficiency

After the break, with Norwich making two attacking changes and switching formation, Swansea took control of the game again. Ethan Galbraith dictated the tempo and showcased his technical class. The Welsh side delivered several crosses, but without success. Swansea then turned once more to Vipotnik. The Slovenian, isolated against two defenders outside the box, found space to shoot from 30 meters out, and beat the keeper again with another thunderous strike. A new moment of individual brilliance that restored Swansea’s lead, which they held until the final whistle (2–1). The whole stadium was on its feet, chanting Vipotnik’s name in unison among the 14,000 spectators present.

The Swans then managed to repel Norwich’s final attacks until the end, with Cameron Burgess standing out in central defense. This victory lifts Swansea up to 13th place in the table, keeping them within touching distance of the top teams. Also, it bodes well for Wednesday’s home match against Manchester City, as the Swans, having already knocked out Nottingham Forest (3–2), will be aiming for another cup upset in the Carabao Cup.

Picture : Léo Billard / Sport W