A crowd of around 7,500 turned up at The Gnoll to see Roberto Martinez's new-look Swans turn in a five-star performance against Welsh Premiership hosts Neath.

In the opening pre-season friendly on home soil, the Swansea faithful grabbed their first glimpse of the club's new signings ahead of the eagerly-awaited Championship campaign.

Goals from Guillem Bauza (2), Dutch trialist Michael van der Heijden, new signing Stefan Morrison and a penalty for Ferrie Bodde earned the Swans a 5-0 win and signalled the grand arrival of the round ball game to the famous old rugby ground.

To add to the occasion, midfielder Ferrie Bodde was officially welcomed back into the Jack fold following his summer transfer speculation after receiving a tremendous reception from the thousands of Swans fans.

"I never had any doubt he'd have a great reception,'' declared Roberto. "I know the Swansea fans inside out and I know they love passionate players.

"Ferrie is a passionate player and by committing himself to Swansea City on a long-term contract, his actions speak louder than any words.''

But Roberto, who was full of praise for Neath's contribution on and off the pitch, admitted he was shocked at the size of the crowd in attendance for a friendly that had to be delayed 15 minutes for all the fans to get into the ground.

"That was a big crowd; something special,'' he added. "I think all the players were surprised at the number of fans who turned out.

"But I think that's part of the excitement of the forthcoming Championship campaign.''

As for the game itself, the Swans boss added: "All the players played their part. There were a lot of new faces out there and they all bring something different to the squad.

"At this stage of the season it's all about making sure they gel together and work on partnerships.''

The Swans will be back in action tonight (Thursday) when they travel to Carmarthen Town's Richmond Park for a friendly three-way tournament.

With their original fixture at Port Talbot postponed because the pitch at the GenQuip Stadium is not quite ready after major work, the Swans will take on Carmarthen and Port Talbot over three 45-minute games.

The first game will be between Carmarthen and Port Talbot at 7pm; before the Swans face Port Talbot at 7.50pm and Carmarthen at 8.40pm.

Admission prices will be £6 for adults and £4 for concessions.

Carmarthen Town v Port Talbot Town (7pm)
Port Talbot Town v Swansea City (7.50pm)
Carmarthen Town v Swansea City (8.40pm)