Bulut post-Boro | We were lacking that finishing touch

Erol Bulut spoke to the press following the home defeat against Middlesbrough.

"I'm disappointed with the result but looking at the whole game and the chances we had we didn't deserve to lose that game by three goals," Erol began. "We had enough chances to score and to lead. In the second half we conceded an early goal as well.

"It wasn't easy, but again we had enough chances to make a bit of a comeback. But we couldn't score.

"We had half of our First Team squad available and still created chances. We just needed to take them. That final touch wasn't there today.

"Our opponents were more clinical than us and they took their chances."

There were chances for the Academy graduates again, with City missing a number of players through injury. Erol continued: "I think our young players did well. [Cian] Ashford was nervous again, but he's learning in every game. Second half, we put more youngsters in and they did good work.

"I'm pleased with what I have seen from our young players so far. Pre-season, they will get more chances to prove themselves too.

"It's not easy coming in when you're three-nil down. But I know Joel Colwill's quality. He's a good player. He'll come on further when given the opportunities."

Despite the result, the campaign as a whole must be viewed in a positive fashion with the Bluebirds moving from 21st position at the end of 2022/23 to at least a 12th placed and top half finish.

"The last game at home we wanted to win in front of the fans but it didn't happen," Erol concluded. "Across the whole season, we have to be pleased though.

"I think ourselves and our board are satisfied with where we are at this stage.

"We could have a few points more, but we've been unlucky at times.

"We have progressed really well as a Club this season."