'We're kicking ourselves at those missed chances' - Michael Byrne

Malin were kicking themselves at the missed opportunities late on following Sunday’s IFC semi-final defeat by Naomh Columba in O’ Donnell Park.  

Manager Michael Byrne admitted afterward that it was a pretty disappointing Malin dressing room following the 2-10 to 1-10 loss to the men from Pairc Na nGael.    

“We gave away a few soft goals which from a defensive point of view is very disappointing,” said the disappointed Malin manager following the three-point defeat. 

But he also acknowledged his team had done well and had recovered superbly after conceding two goals.  

Malin came from six points down to draw level in the middle of the second half shortly after Ryan McNern rattled the back of Zach Conlon’s net for Naomh Columba’s second goal.  

“I think once we had drawn level, if we had shown a little more composure in possession, it might have been a different result,” Byrne said. 

“We had four or five wides during that period that came from rushed shots. If we had maybe taken one more phase of play and had got into a better shooting position it could have been a different story.  

“Once we got back level, I felt we had the momentum and I was comfortable with that. But then when you don’t take the chances you are leaving yourself open to the counterattack. 

“We are kicking ourselves about that as much as losing the game. Because normally we are very good in our decision making and that is what will disappoint the lads when they reflect on the defeat.” 

For Byrne, he admits that it’s the small things that can make the big difference in the Intermediate championship and it was those small margins that got Naomh Columba over the line on the day. 

“Intermediate championships are hard won and we know that from our experience last year,” Byrne said. “That is the thing about sport, it is the small moments and the small decisions that make the difference. 

“But fair play to Naomh Columba they were very dangerous when they broke on the attack and they punished us.”