Tranmere Rovers manager Micky Mellon says that his side need to show more quality in the final third, following the 1-0 defeat to Sutton United.
Isaac Olaofe scored the game’s only goal at Prenton Park, with Rovers unable to find a way back into the game.
He said: “The type of game it was, throw-ins and free-kicks, it’s something you’ve just got to get on with. You have to be competitive and deal with that.
“We got into some good areas. Perhaps, we needed to show a bit more quality and pick somebody out. And then we give away a horror goal. I think at the time, we were probably on the ascendency.”
The manager also said that he cannot fault the desire and effort of the players, saying the final ball just wasn’t there this afternoon.
“Numerous times, we got down on the sides and got into good areas. We were just unable to find somebody in the 18-yard box. Credit goes to them [Sutton] for defending their box so well.
“But we need to show that bit of quality that’s needed when you get into those places. We’ve shown the quality to get there, but you need to go on and finish that off.
“In terms of effort and desire, it’s always there. Obviously, we’re gutted with the defining moment.
“It’s the hardest thing to do in the game, score goals. You need the people in there to show their qualities to do that, and today we weren’t able to do that.”
Mellon also added the side will keep working hard at it, and it’s up to the players themselves to change the final outcome.
“You’ve just got to keep working hard at it, and all I can do is build a platform. It’s got to be up to the quality to execute the movements.
“At the minute, it’s just breaking down different parts of the chain. People need to take that responsibility and improve. Wherever that’s receiving the ball in that area, or playing the ball in that area.”