Town’s Caretaker Manager on the defeat at Cardiff
Huddersfield Town Caretaker Manager Mark Lillis lamented conceding the first second-half goal after today’s 3-1 Championship defeat at Cardiff City.
Murray Wallace’s goal had got Town right back into the game going in 2-1 down at half-time, but striker Kenwyne Jones netted before the hour mark and that settled the tie.
“The third goal killed the game. When we got the goal just before half-time, the dressing room was bubbly – we felt we could get a result out of today,” Mark told htafc.com.
“I’m pleased that even at 3-1 down we were working hard to get back in the game, but the third goal proved to be the killer blow. It was tough to take.”
Lillis switched the formation to a diamond in midfield, which seemed to suit the players when in possession.
“I think (Jacob) Butterfield and (Conor) Coady are going to be fantastic players for Huddersfield Town. They are young lads and they want to learn; they have good futures.
“I thought the system was working and we were getting in, but the difference was in the final third. Cardiff had that quality. We tried to put someone on (Peter) Whittingham, but he got ten seconds of time and space and scored a fantastic goal. He’s played in the Premier League.”
Despite the defeat, Mark believes the spirit – from players to fans – is still there and the win will soon come.
“As we saw on Tuesday, there is a real spirit in the camp. We’ve only played two League games so we’ve not downed tools, although it’s unfortunate we’ve not got any points on the board, which we’d like to change quickly. We have to get on with it and pull together as a club.
“The fans were fantastic today. We’re ‘One Club’ and we’re in this together.
“Cardiff will be up there this season and we know the Championship is difficult, as there are some very good players that punish mistakes. However, we have to play the likes of Cardiff in the Championship this season – we go to another in Reading this Tuesday.”
Lillis will be in charge for the game at Reading and will once again demand the same level of commitment from the players.
“For now I’m the Manager – we put the ‘Caretaker’ title to bed. That’s what I’ve told to the players, because I want the same commitment and effort that they will give to the permanent manager. When the new manager does come in, he will have a group of lads that will really put a shift in.”
