Puel: We Could Not Find A Solution
- Manager Claude Puel reacts to Leicester City’s 1-0 reverse against Cardiff City
- James Maddison had a penalty saved by the outstanding Neil Etheridge
- Victor Camarasa scored in injury time to seal three points for the visiting side
Neil Etheridge pulled off a string of important saves for the visitors, as well as denying James Maddison from the penalty spot with just 15 minutes to play.
And while the fixture looked destined to finish goalless, Victor Camarasa curled an effort into the top corner to win it for Neil Warnock’s side.
“We started this game with the right mentality,” Puel told LCFC TV after the game. “We knew it would be a tough game against this team – direct play, second balls, long throw-ins, all these things.
“We managed our game with interesting moves and chances in the first and second half without finding the clinical edge. It was a shame. Of course, we cannot find the solution to score. We can take this goal but it is not a fair result.
“A draw was the minimum and to lose this game for my team and players is harsh. Harsh because they had the right mentality despite tiredness in this busy period. They tried to give their best, to push until the end with a lot of chances.
“It’s a shame. I’m sorry for my players and fans because it is not a fair result. We were unlucky, we conceded a fantastic goal and they scored with their chance at the end without the possibility to react. It’s difficult to accept, but that’s football.”
Puel says City cannot dwell on their defeat to the Bluebirds, with a visit to Goodison Park next up on New Year’s Day (12:30pm GMT kick-off).
The manager added: “At the end of this game it was a fantastic moment and we cannot continue this way. It’s difficult – we know it was a busy period but it’s a big disappointment.
“I like our organisation and mentality in this game. Despite the tiredness, the players gave their best and all the players are disappointed, but we need to think about the next game - Everton.
“We need to try to get three points – we will see what players are available. It will be another challenge and of course for the moment it is a big disappointment.
“We need to move on, to look forward and prepare for this game with a good rest and continue with our mentality, and that’s all my players can do this afternoon.”