Oldham Athletic manager Paul Scholes was left wondering what happened to his side in the second half in the 1-1 draw with Cambridge United yesterday afternoon.
Latics lead through a Harrison Dunk own goal after controlling much of the first half, however Jevani Brown equalised early on after the interval to earn a point for the home side.
Speaking after the game it was clear to see that the Latics boss wasn’t pleased with his side’s performance in the second half.
“We weren't great second half, I thought we were ok first half, we controlled possession without really looking that threatening.” He said.
“We had a couple of chances here and there, got ahead with a lucky goal, but second half we started really badly and didn't get any better.
“It was disappointing that second half, but all we can do is move on with a tough game on Tuesday against Lincoln.
“If we play anything like we did in that second half on Tuesday then we'll struggle and we know that, so we need some more life in us.”
It was an opportunity for Latics to get back to winning ways after taking an early lead, but Cambridge came out in the second half and earned themselves a share of the spoils.
Scholes says it was probably the worst half of football he’s seen from his side so far.
“I can't really explain the second half performance, it was probably the worst half of football we've had since I've been here.” He commented.
“We played well in the first half, we played some good stuff at times, had a couple of chances and couldn't quite manage the second goal.
“But in the second half we never really looked like scoring.”
Scholes made one change to his starting XI as Dapo Afolayan made his first start for the club in place of Christopher Missilou which allowed Baxter to play a deeper role.
Baxter came off early into the second half leaving some supporters confused as to why, but Scholes cleared up the situation after the game.
Scholes also believes that Baxter’s leadership out on the pitch may have been a factor in the second half.
“The change was made to get Jose on the ball as much as possible because he's our best footballer.
“Playing in that deeper position is good for us because we all know he can play, but unfortunately he was feeling a little bit rough.
“He didn't have a great night's sleep prior to the game, so he had to come off early in the second half.
“It possibly changed things because he's a leader as well, he speaks to the players throughout the game and we missed that leadership second half.”
Next up for Latics is a tough trip to league leaders Lincoln City on Tuesday night.
Scholes is hopeful his side can improve going into the game and he was honest with his players after Saturday.
“We know what a good team Lincoln are, they're top of the league for a reason so it'll be tough.
“I've said to the lads in the changing room if we play like we did in the second half then we'll get beat without a shadow of a doubt.”
Tickets are still on sale for Tuesday’s trip to Lincoln.
For more information click here.