Pardew: We Should Have Won

Last updated : 28 September 2002 By Rob Cooper

Alan Pardew
Alan Pardew
Pardew was disappointed that Reading couldn't convert any one of their numerous second half chances to win the game.

The Royals took an eleventh minute lead through Anthony Rougier but the Potters were level before half time thanks to a freak goal from Jurgen Vandeurzen that took a heavy deflection off Adie Williams.

Speaking after the game Pardew admitted that he felt his side had the chances to win the game.

"I thought we derserved to win it, but we just couldn't, make that final push to get the second goal. Our crossing was good, John Salako was superb today, and we were a bit unfortunate," said the Reading boss.

In the last ten minutes the Royals were forced to defend as the visitors rallied in an attempt to win all three points.

"The last ten minutes were disappointing because that might have left people thinking that we didn't deserve to win, but after the first thirty minutes of the second half I felt we should have won.

"We were chasing the second goal towards the end and lost a bit of shape, but I was pleased with how solid we looked."

Speaking on Vandeurzen's lucky equaliser Pards added: "The goal we conceded was a bit unfortunate, I felt we looked comfortable defensively.

"From that sort of position, when we're looking solid like that, it's very difficult for teams to score and we can usually hurt them on the break. The goal did change the game a bit, but we started the second half very well. The last ten minutes belonged to Stoke, but we should have had the second goal by then."

Pardew was pleased to see Anthony Rougier back in the goals, the Trinidad & Tobagan netted just his fourth goal in eighty-five games for the Royals.

"You could see how pleased everyone in the stadium was to see him score. I think Rouge said a little prayer because his God is important to him - he's finally delivered him a goal."

Meanwhile, Andy Hughes had an impressive game in the midfield engine room. The 24-year-old, who scored the winner at Molineux last week had the chances to get his name on the scoresheet again.

"They had a lot of time on the ball in full-back areas, but we were prepared to give them that room because it freed up some space for Hughsey who caused them some major damage.

"How he hasn't scored with some of his movement and runs I'll never know."

In goal Marcus Hahnemann had a solid game, making some good catches from balls into the box.

Pardew comented: "Marcus had to make a good save from O'Connor. His distribution was also good. The back three were a different class.

"I thought we did well everywhere, we just didn't have that second goal in us."