“We have work to do” – Lowry

COLERAINE midfielder Stephen Lowry couldn’t hide his disappointment after yesterday’s defeat to Linfield at The Showgrounds…

The Stripes would take the lead through Rodney Brown’s header but it was cancelled out before the half-time whistle as Christy Manzinga was in the right place at the right time to fire home.

The match would be decided in controversial circumstances as the ball appeared to hit referee Tim Marshall before Stephen Fallon found the back of the net from distance.

“We are really disappointed, especially in the manner of everything,” Lowry told Coleraine TV.

“I thought it was a pretty even game and I thought both teams played quite well and we had loads of chances but we’re disappointed with the manner of the second goal.

“I felt like the referee has impeded me and playing against 11 men against Linfield is hard enough never mind another man to worry about.

“I can’t believe the referee is in that position on the pitch in a key moment of the game and I’m gutted about it.

“To be fair, their equalising goal was a good finish.

“At one-each we were still well in the game and credit to Stephen Fallon for the finish for the second, but the 15 minutes after that was carnage.

“The ball was out a lot, then we only had 20 minutes or so to play and we created four or five chances and we should be doing better by putting the ball into the back of the net.

“It’s just a frustrating afternoon and we are disappointed with it.

Over 3,000 people attended yesterday afternoon and Lowry acknowledged that he has loved playing in front of a packed audience on the Ballycastle Road.

“I have loved every minute of this season,” he continued.

“The fans and home matches have been amazing and we can’t ask for any more from them as they’ve supported us from minute one.

“We need their support and we will try and make up for today.

“Playing at a packed Showgrounds, with a big away crowd, is a great occasion.

“At the same time, football is all about results and we are disappointed as results didn’t go our way.

“We’ve a lot of work to do as far as I’m concerned to get back up the table.”

The Bannsiders face Glenavon at Mourneview Park next Saturday and Lowry insists the players will take heart from a strong finish to yesterday’s contest.

“We can positives for sure,” he insisted.

“We played well, Linfield played well and we created plenty of chances.

“Glenavon had a good win against Crusaders and it will be a tough game.

“If we want to do anything in this league, we have to go there and look to win the match.”