REACTION: SHAUN DERRY
Cambridge United Manager Shaun Derry was “deeply frustrated” by the U’s loss to Exeter City at the Abbey Stadium – Read his post-match thoughts here.
The United chief gave an honest opinion of the U’s performance which saw them defeated by a goal to nil, but he says his side must take their medicine, draw whatever positives they can and move on.
Derry commented: “We are deeply frustrating with that performance. That was our third opportunity where we have been on the cusp of the top seven and produced a very disappointing display.
“We are not willing to accept that kind of performance, because for us to achieve what we want to achieve, whether that be this season, next year or anytime in the future, we can’t turn in displays like that.
“Exeter played well and controlled the game from start to finish, and let’s not forget they have a very long serving manager who ensures they have a particular style of play that they stick to. However, we never instigated an alternative plan to make things work for us.”
He continued: “We have had a touch of fortune in the other results today, which means we are still only three points off the play-offs with 11 games to go.
“We’ll take any positive we can from the game. The group needs to develop a killer instinct from within moving onwards.”
Derry did take positives from an exciting opening display from loan signing Zeli Ismail and from the news that the U’s have secured the services of Ryan Ledson for further month.
“I know Zeli well from the Notts County days and he produced some excellent performances there. We certainly saw a glimpse of what he is about today and he’s not come here to sit on the bench and be an impact player.
“He could have a real impact for us in the starting 11 and displays like today will certainly put him in prime position to do so.”
Derry added: “It’s also positive for Ryan, good news for us and great for Everton too, that he has extended his loan here. He has driven us forward in a number of games during his time.”