The defeat to Sunderland wasn't the result that Swansea City had hoped for in midweek, and with Newcastle United continuing to show that they're not down and out, the club have slumped into the relegation zone.
With only one point separating them and the Black Cats, the upcoming game with Watford is now of great importance, but Alan Curtis insists that his side are "up for the fight," which is exactly what the fans needed to hear.
Fighting spirit
Swansea were left feeling frustrated after the defeat, with two of Jermain Defoe's goals appearing to be scored from an offside position, whilst Kyle Naughton's red card was incredibly harsh - and has since been overturned by the FA.
Curtis admitted that there was some "anger" following the result due to the manner in which it happened, but that's something that, if used in the right way, can push his side on to ensure it doesn't happen again.
Even though the defeat has had a huge effect on their league standings, Curtis is confident that it wont have a "negative effect" on the team, and that could be crucial as another defeat would see some serious pressure be placed upon them.
Due to the way professional footballers now live their lives, with every second move being criticised by the media, "there are so many setbacks" that they deal with, which is another reason why Curtis doesn't expect his squad to be affected by the result against Sunderland, as players nowadays must have a "reslilience."
The manager highlighted both Ashley Williams and Neil Taylor as his "leaders" and as two players who will "come forward for [Swansea]" during this difficult period - a responsibility that he is sure they can cope with as they are part of a "strong squad."
This evening's clash with Watford will now be a real test of Swansea's character and ability as the club compete in their first true relegation battle since being promoted. The question now is whether or not they have what it takes to survive, when the pressure is on.
