Both managers spoke to Linfieldfc.com after tonight's Setanta Cup tie in Dublin. Linfield manager David Jeffrey was understandably dejected to see his side lose by a 4-1 margin.
" I think we committed football suicide out there tonight. In the first half we knew that Rovers would come out of the blocks quickly. We have had them watched a few times and they have some very good technical players. I was really disappointed with our ball retention in the first half. We were giving it away too cheaply and we addressed that at half time. We came out second half and I thought we were much brighter. Michael Carvill had a great effort which dipped late and then we had a fantastic goal by Billy Joe Burns. I really thought at that stage that we could get a draw out of it. Then we lost two bad defensive goals and to cap it off we missed a penalty along with the rebound. "
" Of course we are all really disappointed and frustrated at the result. It will be a massive task now to progress. When Coleraine won down here I think a lot of people thought that Rovers would not get back into it given where they are in their season. But they are a very good side and you have to give credit where it is due. Coming to Windsor Park next week they will feel that they can score. We are going to have to be much sharper in front of goal and do massively better defensively. "
Rovers manager Trevor Croly was pleased with his sides performance but felt that there was still room for improvement as they prepare for the start of their domestic season.
" Of course it's nice to score four goals but there are definitely aspects that we can improve on because we conceded one goal and also gave away a penalty. They are a good side and they had a period at the start of the second half when we didn't early start very well. Let's not forget though that the guys have done very well tonight. We have to work on certain things and we have discussed those. It was pleasing to create so many chances but it is only half time in this tie. It's Linfield we are playing and they are still a top side."
" I think we were a little bit sharper tonight than we were for the Coleraine game. The extra time in training has helped us as we were only back a few weeks before the first game. I think Linfield will pose a tougher test in Belfast. They could have had more goals tonight and they will be dangerous at home. I'm sure tonight was a good game for those watching and we look forward to the second leg."
