PLYMOUTH manager Paul Sturrock admitted his side could not handle Bristol City in the second half at Ashton Gate last night.

The Pilgrims were 2-0 up after 18 minutes and cruising, but were hit by a double strike in the second half from John Akinde and David Noble.

"Bristol City were exceptional in the second half," said Sturrock.

"They were very positive in their approach and that really dictated the way we were going to defend.

"They put on another big boy which caused us more concern and took us subconsciously back 10 yards.

"It never enabled us to go and support the front players. You need to be some sort of magician to be be able to turn people's mental approach in a game like that.

"I did feel we didn't clear our lines properly and get that 15 yards upfield when we did clear the ball, which kind of dragged them down on top of us.

"The problem wasn't confidence, they were just leg-weary and it took us into an area which enabled Bristol City to dictate.

"Take nothing away from them though, they were up for it and got us on the back foot."