Hughes standing by passing ethos

John Hughes believes Falkirk retain good spirit

Falkirk head coach John Hughes stood by his players despite losing to 10-man Dundee United - and conceding their 14th goal in four league games.

"I know the spirit within the dressing-room and that we have guys that want to stand up to the plate," he said after the 2-0 defeat.

"It was evident from the match that lady luck is not on our side.

"I am very disappointed, but we have been big enough and brave enough to stand by our passing philosophy."

Interview: Falkirk manager John Hughes

But Hughes understood the frustrations of the club's fans at losing to a side they beat four times last season.

"I am gutted by the result and feel for our players and for our supporters," he said.

"But I am trying to do something at Falkirk by going about things in the right way and when you get a bit of success like we did last year then expectation levels rise.

"Someone once said you can be safe and be good, or have a go and be great.

"I'd rather have the second one.

"To be fair to Dundee United, they worked very hard and are well organised."

Hughes picked out United defender Lee Wilkie, who has recovered from a series of serious injuries, for special praise.

"Lee Wilkie was immense for them, especially considering what he has been through, but I had some real heroes in my team as well," he said.