Ian Baraclough: We made it hard for ourselves

Sligo Rovers restored their five point lead at the top of the Premier Division table on Saturday afternoon when they recorded a 2-0 win over Cork City.

Speaking to the assembled press, Sligo Rovers boss Ian Baraclough felt the conditions made the game difficult but didn't use it as an excuse for the performance from his side.

"I think it was a game to forget to be honest. I don't think the conditions helped, it was very windy and really blustery. Our decision making could have been better, we made it hard for ourselves again today against a resolute Cork side but credit to the lads, we found a way to win the game and I suppose that's what it's all about at the end of the day.

"We were happy to go backwards rather than making something happen, being positive and I don't think we were anywhere near being ourselves to honest and some people will come here and think that's chalk and cheese compared to what we have been used to seeing at times, but again, credit to the lads, we found a way to win the game and their 'keeper pulled off three or four excellent saves so it really could have been more."

Baraclough felt Cork didn't provide too much of a threat, but felt sloppy play could easily have lead to a goal for the visitors.

"They were organised, full of energy, closed down well and made it hard for us but they didn't cause us a great deal of panic, only the chances we created for them really through a sloppy pass or making the wrong decision."

The Bit O'Red return to action on Tuesday as they continue the hunt for their first ever Setanta Sports Cup against Drogheda United in the first leg of the Semi-Final, and Ian is keen to get his hands on this trophy.

"I want to win it, but I will ask myself questions, I will ask the squad questions, I will watch today's game back again. Is there a nervousness, an edginess, a tiredness? I don't know at the moment but I have to make sure that we are ready for Tuesday, have a couple of days rest and then go again on Friday. I went to watch Drogheda last night and they certainly won't let us have it our own way, we have to make sure we are strong mentally and get back to the way we should be."

Despite his displeasure with his squad's performance on the day, Baraclough still reflected on the positives.

"Three points, two good goals, we could have scored five or six if it wasn't for their goalkeeper and we are top of the League by five points so I think that's a very good positive."