How they rated

BEN HAMER

A virtual bystander but still completed a fair few passes as the goalkeeper played his part in building Swansea’s attacks from the back.

ETHAN LAIRD

As per usual, saw a lot of the ball down the right. Looked dangerous, playing effectively as a right winger. Had Swansea’s first proper chance of the match with a blocked header. Didn’t stop trying.

KYLE NAUGHTON

Like Laird, was in possession a lot and tried to get Swansea going forward. Stepped out of defence but Swans were constantly met by a red wall of opposition players. Booked.

RYAN BENNETT

Back after a one-game suspension, gave the ball away a couple of times in early exchanges. Looks the least comfortable in this ball-playing system but was sound enough. Booked.

BEN CABANGO

Kept his place in the side and kept Barnsley’s limited threat in check. A few sloppy errors crept into his game in the second half, but has probably done enough to start against Reading on Saturday.

JAKE BIDWELL

Like his team-mate on the other flank, Bidwell set up camp in the Tykes’ half from the off but didn’t threaten enough. Subbed.

MATT GRIMES

The skipper was often the deepest outfield player, picking the ball up from Hamer. Dictated Swansea’s play. Took a knock early on but managed to shake it off. Another positive display.

FLYNN DOWNES

Was always an option, a sign of a good player. Appeared in space constantly, drove forward as the home side ceded possession. Looks quality. Like his team-mates though, found it hard to break down a well-drilled home unit. Subbed.

KOREY SMITH

Preferred over Ntcham, he doesn’t have the same box of tricks as the former Celtic man, despite his endeavour. In a game where the opposition set out to frustrate, more creative guile was needed. Booked.

JOEL PIROE

Didn’t see enough of the ball as he - or Russell Martin - would have liked in the first half. Flashed a shot narrowly wide on the stroke of half-time. Swans had all the ball but barely threatened Barnsley’s goal up until the opener. That’s not Piroe’s fault - he needs the service. Subbed late on.