Solskjaer: We could have scored 6 or 7 goals

Beşiktaş defeated St Patrick’s Athletic 4-1 away in Ireland in the first leg of the UEFA Conference League third qualifying round. Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer made statements after the match. Evaluating the encounter, Solskjaer said, "Of course, I am very happy with the result. It is never easy to win 4-1 away in Europe.

We saw what could happen if we didn't start the second half properly. But we did, we played really well in the first half. We controlled the game for an hour, took the game to them, created chances, and could have scored 6 or 7 goals. But then in the second half, of course, they scored a goal when they played towards their fans and gained momentum. You are always under pressure. This will always happen in Europe in some way.

I was pleased that we regained control after the last 15-20 minutes. So, overall, I am very pleased with the performance. I think we played really well. I know what my team can do when they are focused. Of course, we were disappointed in the previous round of the Europa League, so they were determined to make a good start. And this is a great feeling for me because we know that if we don't start the second half properly, these kinds of matches can turn out like this. So I wouldn't say they made it easy," he said.

"WE COULD HAVE BEEN MORE EFFECTIVE"

Speaking about the opponent changing their game plan in the second half, the Norwegian manager said, "I think we deserved the goals we scored. Because we played really well. Of course, they changed the system. They changed their approach a bit in the second half and made it difficult for us to get into the midfield. With a back five, it was a good learning opportunity for some of my players in the second half. I think we could have been more effective.

We could have scored more goals in the first half. Away from home, in Europe, the opponent can always gain momentum. Especially when they are in front of their own fans. We substituted Svensson, and Tayfur came on. Tayfur was perhaps just a bit out of position. They played a ball behind us. They gained more momentum after scoring. Then we took control anyway. We lost control of the ball and gave our opponent a chance to attack. They had another big chance when Mert made a very good save. So that's what you expect.

So I wouldn't say there was a weakness in defense. Sometimes, when you play at home and the opponent is the favorite, you face a dilemma. You have to ask yourself a question. Will you stick to your normal game plan or will you change it? I was in the same situation. You know, you play a bit too openly because you have a duty to your fans and your players, because you believe in a single style of play.

I don't think that's the case. Every team has 11 players, so there are just different areas, that's how it looks. But they closed the back line in the second half. But we still had a few opportunities. I can't say I expected that to be their game plan, but I knew something would happen, though I didn't know what it would be," he stated.