Brendan Rodgers takes heart from Swansea City's defeat
- Published
Swansea City manager Brendan Rodgers was proud of his side's performance despite a 4-0 defeat on their Premier League debut at Manchester City.
"It was a little bit harsh on us really," said Rodgers of the scoreline.
"For large parts of the game some of our passing and movement was fantastic. I'm very proud of the players.
"It's obviously a baptism of fire coming to this club, who are going to be challenging in Europe, never mind in the Premier League."
On their return to the top-flight after a 28-year absence, Swansea reached half-time without conceding and looked assured in possession as they attempted to stay true to their passing game.
They rode their luck as David Silva and Gareth Barry struck the woodwork, and their resistance was finally broken when Edin Dzeko prodded home after Swans keeper Michel Vorm parried an Adam Johnson shot into his path on 57 minutes.
Debutant Sergio Aguero then stole the show as the £38m signing from Atletico Madrid scored twice and created a goal for David Silva after coming off the bench.
He audaciously flicked the ball back for Silva to volley home for City's third goal before unleashing an unstoppable 25-yard strike to complete a perfect final half-hour for the home side.
"I'm disappointed with the goals we conceded - I think we can defend them better," added Rodgers.
"The fourth goal was world class from a world-class player - you've seen just from his little cameo his qualities.
"But I'm really, really proud that we came here and passed the ball well and gave them something to think about.
"For big parts of the game we were still in it, but obviously when you go 2-0 down against the players of that calibre they can finish with big quality.
"From that moment we end up losing the game 4-0 but there's nothing but credit to the players. We won't play this type of opposition every week.
"In a funny way we'll take a lot of confidence from it."