Drogheda United manager Pete Mahon was left frustrated with his side’s performance as they lost 4-1 at home to Cork City at United Park. Following a frantic opening, the Drogs were reduced to ten men with the score at 1-1 and Mahon has acknowledged
Drogheda United manager Pete Mahon was left frustrated with his side’s performance as they lost 4-1 at home to Cork City at United Park.
Following a frantic opening, the Drogs were reduced to ten men with the score at 1-1 and Mahon has acknowledged that his team failed to perform on the night.
“I thought we were very, very poor,’ Mahon admitted post-match. “It was really disappointing. We certainly didn’t deserve to be level but I thought the goal might be a turning point for us but then the red card happened and we lost our composure.
“To concede the second goal right before half-time was a hammer blow and after that it was an uphill struggle for us.”
Drogheda were forced to play over three-quarters of the game a man light after the dismissal of midfielder Richie Purdy for a late tackle on Steven Beattie and the Drogheda boss believes it was the turning point in the contest.
“We were very disappointed with the red card as it was the key moment of the game. I thought a yellow card would’ve sufficed but I’m guessing the referee gave it for intent. We may decide to appeal the decision depending on the referee’s report.
"I can’t fault the team’s commitment having played for 70 minutes with a man less but our quality just wasn’t there. Our ball retention was atrocious and we didn’t do ourselves any favours."
With six points on the board from three games, Mahon is aware that his side have made a positive start to the season but his squad is set to be tested with a demanding fixture list on the horizon.
“The games are coming think and fast over the next few weeks and everybody is going to get a run out. My hands are tied to an extent with Richie being suspended, Stephen Elliott coming off with a knock to his ankle and Luke Gallagher needing four stitches in his eye.
"It’s amazing how things can change in the space of a week. We were jumping up and down with joy after beating St Pat’s but tonight is a reality check and we’re going to have many more nights like this if we play like that again."
