Hughes Laments Lack Of Cutting Edge
John Hughes lamented his side's lack of a killer instinct as they drew 0-0 at FC Astra, bowing out of the Europa League qualifying 1-0 on aggregate.
Silviu Lung only had a couple of saves to make during the game and on numerous occasions the Caley Jags got in promising positions, only to see opportunities pass them by.
Constantin Budescu's first-leg free-kick proved decisive as the Romanian side edged through to the third qualifying round of the Europa League.
Tactically we were spot on, second half we changed the shape and opened to have a go, it was just that final pass that has to be more clinical,'' said Hughes.I felt there were a few chances for us, we just couldn't get that final ball over the line.''
Despite the draw in Giurgiu, Hughes felt his side acquitted themselves very well and deserved to get something from the game.
For their first European experience, a sense of frustration from the Caley Jags would be understandable, given that they were not overawed by their challenge in Romania.
The Caley Thistle boss was pleased, however, that the supporters were able to experience something that would remain with them for the rest of their days''.
It's about the fans. They've had a blast, they've been well behaved and it's for them. They'll remember about that for the rest of their days,'' he said.
I just feel for the boys, they put a lot of work in but we can learn from this.
I'm looking for other players to step up, Wedderburn was disciplined, get Lopez fit, technically he's a very good footballer.
It takes time for boys to bed in. It looks like we've found a good goalkeeper.''