Duffy: We're Better Than That Performance

Brighton & Hove Albion defender Shane Duffy conceded that the Seagulls didn't reach the required levels in Saturday’s 2-0 defeat to Everton at Goodison Park.

Two goals in the second half were enough to bring Albion’s seven-game unbeaten streak to an end, and the Irishman reflected honestly on the contest.

He said, “Probably one of the most disappointing things for us was the fact we didn't really threaten until the final few minutes of the game.

“We know we’re better than that - and we have to have the right mentality now until the end of the season.

“We’re still in a good position in the league and we’ve done well. Seasons are over 38 games, not just one, and you’re going to lose games over the course of the campaign."

Sam Allardyce’s men have been in good form on Merseyside - prior to the visit of Chris Hughton’s men they had collected 20 points out of a possible 27 on home soil, and Duffy admitted that the opening goal of the afternoon was disappointing.

“We didn't turn up and we got punished in the end, so we’re disappointed.

“When a team like Everton are on their game, they can punish you - and that’s what happened.

“The way we conceded the first goal is disappointing, because we’d been under a bit of pressure in the opening 60 minutes and felt like we’d weathered the storm.

“But you could probably argue we weren't at it from the start of the game and it wasn't good enough, it’s just a blip - we’ve been here before and now what we have to do is put it behind us and react.”

The Republic of Ireland international was returning to his former club, but he insisted that the fortunes of the team were of greater relevance.

“I was returning today but it was never about that - it was about the team and getting another good result.

“That hasn't happened so we have to pick ourselves up now before next week.
 
“It’s the manner in which we lost that we’re not happy with - we weren't in it enough and that hasn't happened at all so far this season, but we have to go again.”