Ian Dawes addressed the media following Tranmere’s first leg Play-Off tie against Morecambe at Prenton Park.
Tranmere go into the second leg trailing 2-1 but Dawes said the players are ready to go already and determined to turn the tie around on Sunday.
Sharing his thoughts on the match, he said: “I am a little bit disappointed how we defended the set plays, as staff we have to take a little bit of responsibility for that, and for the first goal, our organisation was wrong, so I will take a little bit of the responsibility for that goal.
“We have to defend the second phases of set plays better. The first half, we played great, it was as we predicted, and they sat off and tried to frustrate us. We moved the ball well, we created chances, could we have taken a couple more, possibly yes, but the first half, we were pleased with, we just needed to step it up.
“Little bit disappointed with the second half and the first 15 minutes, they did exactly what they wanted to do, they stagnated the game, they killed the tempo with how they dropped off and we didn’t speed the ball up, and it is something we need to look at ahead of Sunday.
“The players realise we are at the halfway point, we need to remember, Morecambe are at their most threatening without the ball because they counter attack, we have to get the balance of attack and defence right. Going into the second leg, we have to push players higher up the pitch and get into better areas.
“We still need to be patient with the ball, but they want you to go long, we have to be patient but move the ball with a purpose. We did in the first half, but we didn’t in the second half so much.
“Even though we are losing at half time, we are confident we can progress through.”
Dawes concluded by praising the SWA, with more than 3,000 cheering the lads on.
“They were excellent, and it was great to see them back,” admitted Dawes. “It is a shame we couldn’t give them a second goal to cheer but I think they saw the efforts of the players and the style we are playing.
“I am sure they have got the confidence going into the next game, and I am sure they will be right behind us on Sunday.”
To watch Ian Dawes’ full post match press conference, please CLICK HERE.