Mixu Paatelainen insisted Dundee United deserved better from their heart-breaking semi-final tussle with Hibs.
The Tangerines boss believed his players controlled long periods of the game, but did concede that their lack of killer instinct in front of goal was to blame for the defeat.
A frustrated Paatelainen claimed his side’s performance was typical of much of their season – good at times but ineffective in front of goal.
The Finn said: “I’m totally gutted for the boys because for the vast majority of the match we controlled the game.
“We were the better team, passed the ball and created great goalscoring opportunities.
“So, in the end, to lose it because of penalties is really disappointing.
“If you don’t score, you can’t win. That’s been the story this season.”
He continued: “We have passed the ball well and we have dominated matches, but if you’re one-on-one with the goalkeeper three times you would like to think that at least one goes in the net.
“But I can’t fault anybody’s effort. The boys fought, they passed the ball, they created chances and defended solidly for the vast majority of the match.”
