McCarthy 'I did not want to get beaten'

Last updated : 08 May 2021 By Michael Morris

Mick McCarthy endured just 3 defeats in the 22 games since he took charge in January. Cardiff won 10 and drew 9 games moving away from a potential relegation battle and even skirted on the edge of the play offs for a time.

C:WindowsTempphp9E35.tmp

"The lads have been brilliant, said the boss. "From where we were - had we lost at Bristol City we'd have gone fourth bottom that day and we might have been in this sort of situation (Rotherham).

"So to be playing to finish seventh and on 70 points is a much better outcome, that's for sure."

On today's game McCarthy was delighted his team responded to a difficult first half by earning a draw with Marlon Pack's 88th minute goal

“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.”

“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."