Source: Team_Talk
Hughes laments passing deficiency
John Hughes felt Hibernian had been taught a lesson in passing the ball from Maribor after a 3-0 loss left their Europa League hopes in ruins.[LNB] Hibs struggled to match the Slovenian side on a slick, wet surface at the Ljudski Stadium on Thursday night and found themselves three down before boss Hughes brought on danger men Anthony Stokes and Derek Riordan.[LNB]Josip Ilicic blasted home the only goal of the first half of the third qualifying round first leg before brilliantly chipping Graham Stack early in the second half.[LNB]Marcos Tavares curled home a third on the hour mark after Hibs were again caught out at the back.[LNB]Hughes had claimed in the build-up that his side's passing game was suited to European football but his players failed to match the sharpness of their opponents.[LNB]"Maribor played the ball quicker than us," Hughes said.[LNB]"They are a good team, very sharp and quick. We played a competitive game but they outpaced us.[LNB]"We have to pass with purpose, not just for the sake of passing it.[LNB]"We need to pass a bit better and a bit quicker."[LNB]David Wotherspoon appeared to be fouled in the build-up to the second goal but Hughes felt his team had been the cause of their own downfall.[LNB]"The second and third goals came about through bad ball retention," the former Falkirk boss said.[LNB]"But they are a very good side, very sharp. They know what they are doing.[LNB]"After the third goal they were dangerous on the counter-attack."[LNB]Hughes added: "It will be very difficult in the second leg, but you never know what can happen."
