Kieran McKenna Believes Ipswich Deserved More Against Bournemouth

Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna spoke to BBC Match of the Day following the team’s defeat against Bournemouth on Sunday. McKenna described the dressing room as “extremely disappointed,” although he considered it “a good performance with some outstanding performances.” He specifically mentioned Conor Chaplin, stating that “Conor Chaplin with his goal, he’s on a great journey.” McKenna expressed his belief that “we know we could have won the game” and found the decision to disallow the second goal “harsh.” He added that “conceding late changes the momentum and then they go and grab a second.” Regarding Cameron Burgess’ disallowed goal, McKenna commented on the challenge from Liam Delap. He remarked, “I think the challenge from Liam [Delap] happens every week. It looks so similar to so many incidents I’ve seen this weekend but we get pulled up on it.” When asked why his team conceded two late goals, McKenna explained, “The game was in such a good place we normally make subs earlier but we were doing well. We weren’t giving away too much and we were getting stronger but it’s a poor moment on the first goal and then you’re vulnerable. They had five fresh subs on the pitch and momentum.” On the subject of motivating the players, McKenna acknowledged the setback as “a big blow” but highlighted the group’s strong cohesion, stating, “the group is working so well.” He admitted it had been “a disappointing week” but affirmed that the team is “working hard and competing with teams.” McKenna concluded by reiterating, “We deserved more from the game today but it’s a disappointing week. The margins are really small for us getting that win and the jump to getting more points isn’t a huge one.”