Martinez hails Bodde's resilience

Bodde scored his seventh goal of the season

Roberto Martinez praised midfielder Ferrie Bodde after the Dutchman shook off an injury to score as Swansea beat Walsall 1-0 at the Liberty Stadium.

Bodde received three studs in his knee at the start of the second half and was almost forced off, but he carried on and grabbed the 53rd minute winner.

"The easiest thing would have been just to go off," said the Swans boss.

"He didn't want to do that. His clear desire was to get back out on to the pitch. It was a fantastic strike."

The Swans extended their unbeaten run in the league to 15 games and maintained their eight-point lead at the top of League One.

606: DEBATE Not a great game, but the three points will do nicely anotheropinion

And Martinez was delighted with his team's response to the 2-2 draw at Crewe on the weekend against a Walsall side pushing for promotion themselves.

"The impressive form they are in, there is no wonder they are on such a good run." said the Spaniard.

"They are very difficult to break down, they are well organised and they made it very difficult.

"But I think some of the football we played in the first half was well pleasing and outstanding in phases.

"We broke them down a few times and I thought we were unlucky not to score more goals.

"Overall it was a very good challenge for everyone and we found the right answers.

"Ferrie's was a special goal and well worthy of the three points."