Çalımbay blames pitch surface for Mersin loss against Karagümrük [divider]

Mersin manager Rıza Çalımbay blamed the pitch surface for his sides 1-0 loss against Karagümrük in the Turkish Cup.

“Most of my players have never played on this type of surface,” Çalımbay said.

“It took us 45 minutes to get used to the pitch, we got into a few good positions but couldn’t even score in front of an open goal. 

“The game was a good opportunity to rotate and give other players a chance. 

“We lost at the end of the day but I learned a few things about the other players today, the cup process is a long one and I am sure we will make it to the next stage. 

“We have to make up for our loss now in the league.”

Mersin are currently in second place in Group C with four points after three games.

The Mediterranean based side face Fenerbahçe in Istanbul in the Süper Lig next.