Club news

Rusk: It Was An Interesting Game

By Kieran Cleeves • 11 August 2018

Brighton & Hove Albion under-23 coach Simon Rusk admitted last night’s goalless draw against Liverpool was a fair result, and believes the tactical approach from both sides created an interesting game on the south coast.

The Seagulls created numerous chances at the American Express Elite Football Performance Centre, but neither side was able to break the deadlock, and Rusk was left satisfied with the overall performance and result.

He said, “For a 0-0 I thought it was quite an interesting game. Both teams would argue that they had enough chances to the win the game.

“For our first game at this level, to get a clean sheet against a good Liverpool side, we have to be pleased with that.

“The lads worked very hard, and when we went down to ten men, if we wasn’t to see the clean sheet out and get the point, it would have been quite cruel on us.

“From a coaching point of view, the game was quite tactical. Liverpool played quite an expansive 4-3-3, so there was quite a lot of problem solving going on all over the pitch.

“We always knew it was going to be a tough game, but we looked dangerous on the break. On another day, Anders Dreyer could have scored, we would have got a 1-0 win and been delighted.”

Rusk’s side frustrated last season’s second-placed side on their Premier League 2 Division 1 debut, and the Albion boss commented further on his team’s promising performance.

“We think we have enough in the team going forward to cause teams problems and score goals. With the chances we had, I’m disappointed we didn't find the back of the net.

“But I have to be delighted with the clean sheet. Ben Barclay and Ben White, as the game went on, really imposed themselves and played a big part in the clean sheet.

“Alex Cochrane was tested one-v-one against real pace, and Owen Moore made a wonderful block, which was as good as a goal in a game like that.”

A bumper crowd watched the game at Albion’s training ground, and Rusk was full of praise for the club’s supporters who attended the game and showed their support towards his young side.

“It was fantastic - I was delighted when I saw the fans turn out for the boys. It makes a real difference to the feel and adds atmosphere to the game.

“We’re really grateful to the fans that turned out and gave us their support. We really appreciate that and hope it’s something that can continue this season.”