Smith defends players after precious point

14 September 2010 23:30
Rangers manager Walter Smith praised his players while also defending their backs-against-the-wall approach against Manchester United after leaving Old Trafford with a point. The Scottish champions defended staunchly in the Champions League Group C opener and were rewarded for their efforts with a goalless draw despite the Barclays Premier League giants being strong favourites to win the match comfortably. Smith admits he would love to adopt a more creative approach to these games but insists the financial gulf between the top clubs in Europe and smaller nations like Scotland means teams like Rangers have no option but to do whatever necessary to get results. "I am proud of the way my players played," he said. "They are up against a situation that's not of their making. UEFA are allowing a situation to develop that is totally wrong. "Bigger clubs in smaller countries are being drastically affected by the lack of finance and it's very difficult to compete. "It's down to a manager to find a way, and in any walk of life it's easier to stop people doing something than it is to create. It's a circumstance that we don't feel proud of the fact we're doing it, but there's nothing else left for us. I must say that over the two or three years my boys have done it extremely well."

Source: PA