Martinez settles for a point

Swans and Bluebirds reflect on an action-packed Welsh derby

Last updated: 30th November 2008   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Martinez settles for a point

Martinez: Disappointed not to win

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Swansea boss Roberto Martinez felt his side were unfortunate to be held in their derby clash with Cardiff on Sunday.

The Swans were ultimately forced to settle for a point in a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Liberty Stadium.

The hosts had taken the lead in the 12th minute through Darren Pratley but saw the Bluebirds hit back with goals from Joe Ledley and Ross McCormack.

Gorka Pintado then volleyed a 71st minute equaliser to earn a share of the spoils, with an action-packed contest also seeing Stephen McPhail and Leon Britton dismissed.

Martinez believes his side edged proceedings against their Welsh rivals, but was delighted to have put on a show for a passionate fan base.

Atmosphere

"It was a superb derby game played in a fantastic atmosphere," said the Swansea coach.

"To concede goals so close to either side of half-time was disappointing but we went on to create a number of chances and should have finished off the game.

"The squad reacted superbly to going behind and we never lost our style of play.

"The performance deserved a victory and we had three up front trying our best to get the winning goal."

Discipline

Cardiff boss Dave Jones was also of the opinion that his side deserved more than they got, placing part of the blame for his side's failure to hang onto their lead on the shoulders of the match officials.

"It was a fantastic advert for Welsh football," he said.

"It took us a while to get into the game and a lack of discipline has probably cost us all three points as the last thing you want to do against a passing side is to go down to 10 men.

"It was a fantastic game but the referee made some strange decisions and didn't seem to understand it was a derby match."