Mick post-Rotherham | A hard earnt point
The Bluebirds brought the campaign to a close with a 1-1 draw against Rotherham United at Cardiff City Stadium.
Mick McCarthy spoke to the press and media after the final match of the season, discussing the hard-fought contest between the Bluebirds and the Millers.
“It was a hard earnt point.” he reflected. “I thought Rotherham came here with real intent, were more aggressive and forceful, and were better in the first half than we were.
“I was annoyed at half time at how we’d played. It was as meek and mild as we’d been, and nowhere near the standards that we’ve set.
“I thought second half, we had a response. I changed it around, went with a 4-3-3 and made substitutions, and I’m really delighted we’ve got a point. We didn’t deserve to win the game, but I’m glad we didn’t get beaten.”
Marlon Pack’s late leveller gave City a point and condemned Rotherham to relegation, with the boss praising the determination of the visitors whilst also applauding his players for their contribution since his arrival at the club back in February.
“They were scrapping for their Championship lives, and I think that was reflected in the match. I thought we caught them on the break a few times in the second half, and when Marlon scored, they had one moment of weakness and we punished them.
“It’s sad for them, but I didn’t want to get beaten. I thought we could have had more points overall this season, but I think it’s an excellent return. The lads have been brilliant from where we were. To be playing to try and finish 7th and to finish on 70 points is a much better outcome, that’s for sure.”
Everyone at Cardiff City Stadium rose to applaud Sol Bamba upon his introduction to the action as a late substitute, and Mick also paid tribute to the veteran central defender.
He said: “Sol has been a big part of this club, for a long time. When they were starting to make substitutions and put bigger players on, they were going to be looking for a throw in, a free kick or a corner.
"I wanted to get him on anyway, and he was delighted with that. The lads were all delighted for him, as I am, as the staff are. He’s been a big part of the club, and everybody loves him here.”
The Gaffer concluded with a look ahead to the 2021/22 campaign, and the possibility of seeing supporters back at Cardiff City Stadium in the near future.
“It’s always our intention to finish as high as we possibly can. If we can build on what we’ve seen this year since January, with the nucleus of the team that we’ve got, then I’ll be optimistic for next season.
“We all want fans back in the stadium; it means so much to the supporters, and it means so much to us as well. You do perform far better with that encouragement, support and noise.”
