Managers Paul Lambert and Sean Dyche both reflected on Stoke City’s second goal that never was after Mame Biram Diouf missed a huge chance in their 1-1 draw with Burnley.
In a game that Stoke desperately needed to win to boost their Premier League survival hopes, Diouf miscued just before the break to pass up the opportunity to add to Badou Ndiaye’s opener.
And that was to prove costly for the Potters as Ashley Barnes struck after the break to earn a share of the spoils, although Lambert was keen not to criticise front man Diouf.
“If we score the second with Mame Biram Diouf’s chance, it’s hard for Burnley to come back,” he told BBC Sport. “But it was never enough. We had some big moments.
“The one thing about Diouf is he gives you everything. If that ball had come to him when he was more confident in the game, he’d have probably hit it first time. But I’m not going to criticise him because he’s been excellent for me.”
42 – Let off for Burnley as Stoke break down the right and Diouf thankfully mis-controls a perfect cross with just Pope to beat. 1-0
— Burnley FC (@BurnleyOfficial) April 22, 2018
Burnley boss Dyche agreed that the game may well have turned on that moment.
“It’s a turning point in the scoreline,” he added. “But I think we just had to adjust things at half-time – half-time can be a wondrous thing sometimes, it gives you that break and the chance to re-evaluate and calm down.
“In the second half, we played better, but how do you know how these games pan out?
“At the moment, we’ve been here and, even at 2-0, is it done? Not always, but obviously it’s fair to say if they score a second, it’s a bigger challenge.”
- Soccer News Like
- Be the first of your friends!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
SoccerNews
Soccernews.com is news blog for soccer with comprehensive coverage of all the major leagues in Europe, as well as MLS in the United States. In addition we offer breaking news for transfers and transfer rumors, ticket sales, betting tips and offers, match previews, and in-depth editorials.
You can follow us on Facebook: Facebook.com/soccernews.com or Twitter: @soccernewsfeed.