Jonny Evans admits he ‘wasn’t up to scratch’ in Northern Ireland defeat
and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565
Evans got his first international goal in over a year early in the second half but was also charged with an own goal when Petar Stojanovic’s 17-minute strike deflected off his hand, giving Slovenia the lead back after Isaac Price had cancelled out Andraz Sporar’s early goal.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdSporar and Benjamin Sesko were clinical for Slovenia but were also afforded time and space, with Evans failing to catch Sporar offside for the opener and then allowing Sesko to spin away from him and score on the turn to make it 3-1 just before half-time.
“I didn’t think I played great myself,” the Manchester United defender said. “I know I got a goal but my own personal performance probably wasn’t up to scratch. I’m experienced enough and wise enough to admit that.
“We can’t be giving away cheap goals at the start of the game like we did.”
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdNorthern Ireland had come into this game on the back of three consecutive 1-0 defeats. While this was another match of fine margins – Northern Ireland had more possession and more chances than their hosts but lacked the clinical edge – it was also much more chaotic.
“It was difficult to take in terms of the defence,” Evans said. “That’s something we have always been solid and quite strong with.
“Even during the game I was thinking this is not a typical Northern Ireland match especially away from home.”
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdWhile Northern Ireland were impressive going forward with Conor McMenamin a constant threat, it came at a cost at the other end of the pitch.
“I think we are trying to play the game higher up the pitch,” Evans said. “After we qualified for Euro 2016 Michael tried to progress the team to another level and he is trying to do that again and I think you can see that with some of our play.
“Possibly we have to look at our game management. The two times we got back in the game maybe got too carried away and left ourselves too open and they were soft goals to concede. We admit that and it is something we have to look at.”
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdEvans admitted the defeat effectively ended hopes of qualification, with the focus now on developing a team that can challenge the next time.
“The team has to keep together and keep progressing and we have to build more connections between the players,” he said. “There are promising signs there from an attacking perspective. Look at Conor.
“From where he has come from playing Irish League he has made a step across to Scotland and St Mirren and he was superb for us.”