Brian Barry-Murphy gave his thoughts after his side’s late 2-1 defeat at MK Dons on Tuesday.
Dale led at half-time through Ian Henderson’s 124th Dale goal, but were pegged back just four minutes after the break by Carlton Morris’ header.
It looked as though the spoils would be shared, but Rhys Healey won and converted a 93rd minute penalty to snatch all three points for the hosts.
“It was similar to the Wycombe game, but I felt we played much better in the second half there,” said the Dale boss.
“If we’re being totally honest with ourselves tonight, and that dressing room is a very honest place, we weren’t in any real control in the second half.
“Towards the end of the game it felt like a basketball match, in that we’ll attack then they’ll attack.
“Credit to MK Dons for that, they really went for the jugular and went for the win. We had no real sense of control and as a result we conceded a late goal against us.
“I think it’s disappointing to concede at any time. I thought our football up to the point we scored was exceptional and we started the game really well.
“We never managed to build on our goal and I thought the way we started the game would have led to a lot more chances than it did.
“We didn’t build on that and from the moment the second half kicked off, I thought MK Dons were in the ascendency. We found it difficult to stem that flow.
“Even though we lost, I don’t think we can have any real qualms with the result today.”
The game did see the return of defender Jim McNulty, who played 77 minutes at Stadium MK.
“Coming back from such a serious injury, it’s brilliant for the group to see Jim come back into the fray.
“I thought he was brilliant whilst he was on the pitch and he obviously adds a calming influence to our squad.
“One of our main pluses from tonight is that we got that. We have nearly all of our players back to full fitness which is very important for us moving forward.”
The full interview with Barry-Murphy is available to watch on iFollow Dale HERE.