Brown laments set piece mistakes
LISBURN Distillery boss Jimmy Brown claimed his players had "shot themselves in the foot" as they collapsed to a heavy 5-1 defeat against FC Zestafoni last night.
The first qualifying round, first leg showdown was controlled from start to finish by the classy Georgians at Mourneview Park.
Two goals apiece from Nicholas Gelashvili and Shota Grigalashvili saw Zestafoni cruise into a 4-0 interval lead.
The visitors added a fifth in the second period, with Gavin Whelan bagging Distillery's consolation with three minutes remaining.
Brown conceded it was Zestafoni's opening two goals – the first of which arrived courtesy of a howler from Whites goalkeeper Paul Murphy – put paid to any European ambitions.
"The two quick goals in the first half killed us," Brown admitted.
"They came from two set pieces and they could have been avoided.
"When that happens, especially against full-time opposition, you are always going to be up against it. The aim was to keep them at bay for as long as possible, but we shot ourselves in the foot a little bit during those early exchanges."
Brown must now lift his players for next Thursday's return leg in Georgia, but admits it is a daunting challenge.
"We are 5-1 down and the tie is gone. You have to be realistic," he added.
"We also have a difficult trip to Georgia which involves two flights and a three-hour bus journey. So that in itself will be difficult for the players.
"But we have to deal with what lies in front of us, and I don't think I will need to motivate my players. They proved they can compete in the second half tonight, so that has given them a lift for the return leg."
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Saturday 04 February 2012
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