Duffy praises players for refusal to fold

Delighted manager Jim Duffy praised the way his players refused to fold and fought back from 2-0 down at the break to beat league leaders Dunfermline Athletic 3-2 at Cappielow on Saturday.

When asked for his thoughts on the result and the way it was achieved, Duffy said:

“We’re absolutely thrilled with the final result in a really tough match against an oustanding team in the division.

“Once we got the goal early on in the second half everything turned. We got belief, the fans got belief, it was a more positive atmosphere, and I think that helped the players.

“You could see us relaxing, passing the ball and linking up the play. Ultimately, we had to show character, and that was the most pleasing thing.

“We could have folded at half-time. We asked the players to show a response, to have a real go and take the game to Dunfermline in the second half – and we did that.”

When asked if he thought Ross Forbes’ challenge on Jason Talbot was a penalty, he said:

“I did, I have no doubts about that. Ross was caught wrong side and lifts his foot. People can maybe say his head’s low, but it’s dangerous play, and in the box that’s a penalty.”

Gaffer Duffy made a double change, bringing on goalscrorers Gary Harkins and Jai Quitongo, that helped turn the tide fully in his side’s favour, and he added:

“Players are always frustrated at not starting the game, but we’ve got good options now, and it’s always the icing on the cake when the substitutes come on and score a goal

“Both goals have got a lot of pressure. With the free-kick, it’s easy just to go for power when you’re close to the 18-yard line.

“Gary just caressed the ball really. We know he’s got that quality. And with Jai you need that bit of composure to finish in the one-on-one situation.

“Connor McManus also put the ball through for Jai when he came on, so everybody contributed.”

Image: Gary Bradley