Rooney assesses Stoke defeat

Million Manhoef’s goal was the difference between Argyle and Stoke City, as the Potters left Home Park with a 1-0 victory.  

The Dutchman fired in a low effort in the 83rd minute, and despite the Pilgrims’ best efforts, they could not find the goal that eluded them all afternoon.  

It was not through want of trying. In fact, the whole game was an end-to-end affair, with numerous chances at each end. Ultimately, everything hinged on the moment of quality that Manhoef provided, cutting inside and driving home a low finish.  

“I’m frustrated,” said Head Coach Wayne Rooney. “It's similar to the Hull City game, really, where I felt we were, especially the second half, in control of the game, but were not being clinical and ruthless enough.  

“In the second half, I think they had maybe one chance. It's not even a chance, really. It's a half-chance - and he scores.  

“I'm really disappointed on their goal as well; [Manhoef] does that quite a lot. It’s something we looked at before the game. I made Bali [Mumba] aware of it as well. Bali does everything right really and he's unfortunate, he goes to block and it goes through his legs. I think maybe that unsights Conor a little bit. 

“I thought in the second half, up until the final third, we played some really good stuff. We were making it difficult for Stoke, getting in good areas, but it's that last bit, so it's something we really need to work on.  

“We've made changes to try and keep that energy up there, have more attacking players on the pitch, but we just couldn't find that clear opportunity. When we did get half-chances, we hit the goalkeeper, or we didn't quite get them right. 

“It’s something we really need to improve on, otherwise it's going to cost us.  

“I thought for the first 15 minutes, we weren't aggressive enough in getting to the ball and we allowed them to play balls over the top; we didn't get tight enough. Then we adjusted a little bit, and I thought from there we pressed better. 

“We caused them problems on the back line, but we just couldn't get that clear opportunity.  

“I thought the crowd were outstanding again. I think they've been great since I've come into the club. I'm gutted for the fans today because they've come here, they've supported the team again magnificently and, unfortunately, we've lost the game.  

“I think the work we put in, the effort we put in, I don't think we deserved to lose the game, but that's football, it can be cruel sometimes.”