John Barnes Post Match Comments – Carlisle (A)

Tranmere manager John Barnes blamed poor defending for the defeat away at Carlisle, Rovers were beaten 3-0 at Brunton Park.

Tranmere were reduced to ten men after Shaelum Logan was sent off for violent conduct.

Ash Taylor came on for Rovers for the dissapointing Alan Mahon to slot in at right back, however the tactical changes at half time which also seen Shuker come off backfired on Barnes, as his side conceded 3 goals.

Speaking after the game to Tranmere Player the gaffer said:

‘We don’t know what the outcome would have been had we not had ten men, but there’s no excuse for players performing the way we did in the second half.

There’s no excuse for the way we defended in the second half. We were second to everything and never got near anyone. Too much is made about the way we want to play and tactics. That’s got nothing to do with whether we play long balls or short balls, but to do with individuals showing the right desire and commitment in difficult circumstances, to run around and tackle, to show commitment to each other and to try to get a result in a difficult situation.’

Meanwhile Barnes also said that On Loan Blackburn defender Gavin Gunning will be going back to Ewood Park after a disappointing loan spell, Barnes added:

‘Ash Taylor coming on did ok. Gavin Gunning is not going to be with us any more so Ash is going to play. Every time he has played he has shown the kind of spirit and desire I want in my side. Forget about how we’re playing, he shows that kind of commitment.’