Head coach Nelson Jardim said his side’s second-half performance proved costly after they were defeated 3-2 by Carlisle United.
The Exiles raced into a two-goal at Brunton Park after goals from Kieron Evans and Bobby Kamwa, but they were unable to hold on, as United fought back with a brace from Georgie Kelly and a late winner from Aaron Hayden.
“First of all, I want to start by apologising to our fans, “he said. “They traveled in numbers, and at the end of the game, I was very frustrated.
“I got caught up in the tunnel in a heated moment, which kept me there for quite a while.
“As a result, I didn’t go over and thank the fans for their support, which I normally do. So I want to start with that—apologies from me.
“But I think the fans will understand. We were 2–0 up and lost the game in that manner, with the way the goals went in. It left me with a lot of questions.
“I felt we started the game well and took a 2–0 lead. But again, in the second half—just like in other games—when the match becomes physical, when it turns into a battle of duels and strength, we fall short.
“Today was another example of that, especially with set pieces. We knew it was going to be a tough game, they’re fighting for their lives.
“But once again, we fell short when it turned into a physical battle. Size, strength, experience. That’s the difference in those moments.
“Every game is tough, as you know. But when you're 2–0 up away from home, you simply cannot lose that game. It’s not good enough.
“That’s what makes this one especially frustrating.”
