Graham Potter insisted he was happy to escape from the “bedlam” of a goalless draw at Wigan with a point that lifted Swansea City into the Championship play-off places.
The Swans manager watched his team spurn a number of opportunities to take all three points on Tuesday night and claim a victory which would have put them within one win of the top two.
But Potter was also indebted to goalkeeper Kiristoffer Nordfeldt – surprisingly picked ahead of Erwin Mulder – for a superb save to deny Wigan striker Will Grigg.
“It’s a bit hard to digest that so soon after the end, it felt like a bit of bedlam at times,” said Potter.
“I thought we played well in patches, created some good chances, and I thought the spirit was fantastic.
“They had some big moments as well, and overall you’ll take any point at this level, a clean sheet and plenty to build on.”
Potter explained his decision to replace Dutchman Mulder – who had conceded just one goal in his previous four games – with Swedish World Cup keeper Nordfeldt.
“We’ve got a really solid group where everyone is ready to come in and help the team. With it being a three-game week, we thought it would be the ideal time to use Kris’s assets.
“We knew Wigan were a high-tempo pressing team and would be defending from their front six in our faces. We thought Kris could help us with that, it was a great opportunity to rest Erwin, and we’re just lucky we have two fine goalkeepers.”
It was Nordfeldt’s first Championship appearance since August when a groin injury forced him off against Preston and handed Mulder an opportunity he seized.
“It was great to be back and I was happy to be playing again,” Nordfeldt said.
“The injury made things difficult for me this season and I have waited a long time for my chance.
“When the gaffer made me first choice it was great. But then I got injured and it interrupted things, so it has been tough, especially mentally.
“I have kept my head down and worked hard to get back to a starting position.
“You have to show your character at times like this. I just celebrated the birth of my second child which means I have been able to focus my mind on family.
“As a professional you always want to play but it not only about me.
“Becoming a father has helped drive and motivate me. Family is the most important thing is vital for me. Family will always come first but it is important people know that Swansea City is a part of my family.”
Swansea had the chances in front of goal to be the first side to beat Wigan on their home patch this season.
Barrie McKay, Matt Grimes and Connor Roberts all tested Christian Walton while Nordfeldt ensured the Latics did not get anything at the other end.
“If you look at the chances I think we deserved more from the game, he added.
“The game really opened up and we were the better team.
“Football is about results so it was not the best game we have played this season. We created a lot of chances it is just a shame we did not put one away.
“They had chances, too, and I was happy to be there to deny them.
“They have not lost at home yet so coming away from home and getting another point and clean sheet a good result.
“I think we are taking steps in the right direction. I am looking to help the team as much as possible and I hope to get more chances to do that.”
