Alessio hails his battlers
KILMARNOCK boss Angelo Alessio hailed his side’s neversay-die spirit after the Ayrshire men played their get out of jail free card. The Italian marked his Killie managerial debut with a hard-fought Europa League
comeback win over Connah’s Quay Nomads last night.
Greg Taylor’s own goal 15 from minutes put the Welsh side ahead and Killie briefly flirting with disaster at the home of Rhyl.
But Scotland striker Eamonn Brophy fired home from the penalty spot in 81 minutes before defender Stuart Findlay completed the rescue act when he bulleted home a header from from Chris Burke’s corner in the 93rd minute.
Alessio admitted it was his players’ passion and their reaction to going a goal down that won the day.
He said: “‘I knew it would be tough for us – and that’s how it worked out. The passion from my players and reaction they showed after conceding the goal was very pleasing.
‘We showed a great reaction mentally. We came back strongly and this was key to us winning the game. My team is strong, we never give up.
“This is a big show in Europe and we knew it would be tough. I was not worried when they scored because we had all the play. We were in control with lots of possession.
“Even when they scored I felt calm because I believe in my players. I know my players and I know the mental strength they have.
“It’s not easy when your opponent plays with 10 men