Ruth: Late slump against Woking was unacceptable

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Albion threw away a two-goal lead at Woking on Tuesday night.

Charlie Hanson

2024-10-02T07:00+01:00

Shannon Ruth's team are next in National League Cup action when they face Aldershot Town on Tuesday 5 November. 📷 by Paul Hazlewood.

Men’s under-21s head coach Shannon Ruth has labelled his team’s 2-2 draw with Woking in the National League Cup as ‘unacceptable’.

Having been 2-0 up in the late stages on Tuesday night, Albion conceded in the 89th and 90+6th minute, taking the game to a penalty shootout to decide who came away with an extra point.

Killian Cahill saved two spot-kicks to ensure Albion won the shootout 4-3, but the nature of the collapse in normal time was concerning for Ruth.

Woking struck twice late on to deny Albion a debut win in the competition. 📷 by Paul Hazlewood.

“Unfortunately it's not acceptable. This competition means playing men’s football and that means if you're 2-0 up, having that much control and playing that well, that the opponent should never score two goals. They need to understand that as professionals you can’t let that happen like we did.

“We've got some talented young players at the football club, but the opportunities that we gave up late on is not acceptable.

“As frustrating as it is, it's a good lesson because the game should be done. We’re 2-0 up and in charge. For all the things that we want this competition to teach the young players, it did that. But it’s frustrating because we played well and we deserve three points rather than just two.”

Killian Cahill saved two penalties in the shootout. 📷 by Paul Hazlewood.

Cahill’s performance in the shootout was a highlight for Ruth though.

“I am pleased for Killian. He was disappointed after the Crawley shootout defeat we had in the EFL Trophy. So my staff and Killian have done a lot of work on penalties, as well as their homework on the takers.

“I'm delighted for him that he got to be the hero on the night and experience that because for third choice keeper he's working hard every day and doesn't get the feeling of playing a game every week. These competitions are good for him and he helped us on the night.”