Central Coast midfielder Mickael Tavares says the Mariners lost sight of their positive new approach in Saturday’s disappointing 2-0 defeat to Wellington Phoenix.
Paul Okon’s side managed only two shots on goal to Wellington’s seven as they fell well short of the heights of last weekend’s stirring win in Adelaide.
“I don’t think we played our game, our style,” Tavares told ABC Grandstand.
“Normally we have the possession, we keep the ball but today it was a little bit forgotten.
“We had a good game last week so we were full of confidence.
“Unfortunately we didn’t find the net today.”
REPORT: Krishna fires Phoenix past Central Coast in Canberra
HIGHLIGHTS: Mariners v Phoenix
While the deadlock remained unbroken at half-time, the Mariners failed to mount a serious challenge as Wellington scored twice in just over 15 minutes of the restart.
Tavares admitted his side struggled to respond to Roy Krishna’s opener.
“When they scored first the team didn’t react well,” the former Senegal international said.
“We are a little bit down tonight and we have to step up for next week.”
