After tempers boil, Southampton boss Martin defends his players.
SAINTS manager Russell Martin claimed he is as “angry” as everyone else, but protected his players from fan criticism.
Midfielder Flynn Downes told the Daily Echo following Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Rotherham that he understood the dissatisfaction but was surprised by some of the fan reaction.
Saints lost two points at home to second-bottom Rotherham despite dominating the ball and registering ten shots on goal.
Some fans vented their rage after the game, and Martin was involved in a verbal brawl on the sidelines.
“It’s frustrating,” he said, “but it shouldn’t have come to that.” It’s been a nice week, but I’m still angry and frustrated that we didn’t win the game.
“Anyone watching that game and looking at the stats will notice that we should win, but we don’t.”
“There is frustration, and we should have had nine points from nine, and everyone is feeling really good, but instead it’s seven, and I’m disappointed for everyone.”
“A guy at the end booing and going absolutely crazy, one of our supporters, I understand the frustration of watching such a dominant performance and not winning.”
“But I don’t think the players deserved the vitriol, so I said something to him, and I think it’s important to acknowledge it’s been a good week.”
“We recognize that we should have won, but we are definitely moving forward.” I’m just as frustrated and angry as everyone else that we haven’t.
“It’s not everyone and hopefully most people will have enjoyed their team being so dominant but I know this game is outcome-based and that’s the only thing that matters.”
“If we win three or four nil, everyone will be ecstatic about the performance,” Martin remarked, “but that’s the fine line.” It is our fault, and it should not have happened.
“We have to use the pain of that moment to propel us forward.” Saturday should have resulted in three points and a fantastic week that we thoroughly enjoyed.
“It was in the heat of the moment, but it was pretty angry – it’s not a big deal, and the players didn’t deserve it, but believe me, I’m more angry than he is.”
“You have to stand up for your players sometimes, but I’m really annoyed.” You have no right to beat anyone, but I understand your fury today.
“The crowd have been great in the last week and we are going to need everyone to really come together, we have a chance to progress when we come back.”
About The Author
Leave a Reply