Swansea City made a massive statement Sunday when they defeated Cardiff City 1-0 in the Welsh capital. Cardiff were defeated fairly and squarely by a much superior Swansea side who thoroughly deserved all three points. With Cardiff being one of the favorites to be promoted from the Championship this season, the loss to Swansea will come as a demoralizing defeat especially at the hands of their closest rivals.

Swansea commandeered a brilliant win by outplaying the Bluebirds in every area of the pitch. The Swans created more chances on goal with Scott Sinclair and Nathan Dyer coming close, as well as Marvin Emnes who constantly put the Cardiff defenders under pressure. So it was no surprise when Emnes, with his back to goal, twisted and turned and was able to hit a shot into the Cardiff goal.

In midfield and defense, Swansea was also in control. Cardiff, meanwhile, played like ghosts, lacking the passion and fortitude to try to salvage a point or a win. Craig Bellamy came close to scoring on two occasions, but other than those, there was little threat from Cardiff. Michael Chopra meanwhile should have been sent off for a late reckless challenge against Swansea youngster Joe Allen. But other than Chopra and Bellamy, Cardiff was out of the game from the minute the match started.

Swansea and Cardiff will meet again in the league in 2011. Whether Cardiff will able to enact revenge against the Swans, we’ll have to wait and see. But judging by today’s stellar performance by Swansea City, they definitely have the strength to get promoted to the Premier League by the end of this season.