“Overall it was a difficult game for both teams. Our second half was much better and in the end we could have won and we feel like we’re winning. The other game, the PKs, is obviously frustrating, but it’s part of this game. I want to stick to that and the players must have the (positivity) and courage that we always need to finish our game at home (next week). We are ready for all our fans to be there (Inter&Co Stadium) to finish this game at home. It’s going to be okay.”

On the offensive

“Of course we wanted to be more offensive and create more scoring situations, but these games in the playoffs are like that. It was close and the tension in the game was there the whole time for both teams, and I didn’t see that.” The game wasn’t very close for any of us, at least not for a minute. We created some flow and created a position where we had the confidence and then we got behind, but it wasn’t a game where we had that much volume.”

About how Charlotte has changed since the first game

“It’s just a different game. I think it’s normal (for them to change) that they play in their area at home. Obviously we all know that there is an urgency for them to win this game and we knew they would be more aggressive. The fight was us withstanding that pressure but we couldn’t hurt them when we had the ball and that’s probably what we missed today but the game plan for us was the same. It’s just that the games aren’t the same, especially in these playoffs.”

“Obviously it wasn’t the result we wanted tonight and it was difficult getting to the final where we were a little upset with the result because we felt we played a really good game. We pushed the game forward at times, but we couldn’t get the goal and they were able to get the win and the penalties. So there is certainly something to discuss this week. We’re heated now and focused on Saturday.”

Focus on a must-win game on Saturday

“There’s no time for frustration, is there? We now have to turn around and turn the page. Start training and really focus on getting ready for Saturday. We need to get back together and get our act together properly.”

On defending Charlotte’s forwards

“I think there are two very different strikers. I think (Patrick) Agyemang has a strong presence. He is very strong. He is very physical in this area and creates a lot of problems in this way. At the same time, we have to be ready to compete and mark any player they have included in their starting XI.”