Liam Manning spoke of his frustration after MK Dons were held to a goalless draw by Gillingham in their opening match of 2022.
Despite dominating the Stadium MK contest, and creating a number of openings, the Dons failed to find a way through the Gills backline and were held to a shut-out for only the third time in the league this season.
“(Frustration) is the exact word to sum it up,” Head Coach Manning said in his post-match press conference. “I'm frustrated not to win.
“We had a lot of control, back third and mid-third, but it was clear to see we were lacking in the final third. Whether it was decisions or execution, it just wasn't quite right.
“We had some decent chances but nothing clear cut. When a team comes out and engages us higher, like they did early on, we look dangerous but because we do it so well, they sink deeper and deeper.
“We can't jump on the lads straight away because they've scored so many goals this season and they've provided so much entertainment and been clinical. It's a challenge for some of the guys to maintain that high level of form and we have to accept there will be blips along the way.”
Manning added: “Ultimately, their game plan worked. They frustrated us and we'll take it on the chin and move on. We can't afford to hang around because we've got another game on Tuesday.”
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Liam Manning and MK Dons turn their attention to the Papa John's Trophy on Tuesday evening when they take on Charlton Athletic at The Valley.
Tickets are priced at just £5 adults and £1 over-65s/under-21s and will be available to buy from the Box Office and online up until midday on Tuesday, while they can also be bought, by card only, from the south stand ticket office at The Valley ahead of kick-off.
Can't make the tie with Charlton Athletic? Watch the game LIVE courtesy of iFollow MK Dons - CLICK HERE to purchase a Video Match Pass!
