Marko Jevtovic: We were not on the level required

After trailing 1-0, Partizan won tough away encounter against Mladost Lucani with two late goals. In the corresponding fixture, Partizan won it 3-0 but many remember Mladost winning Partizan in a last summer`s preps friendly so everyone expected home side to be a tough nut for this one. Midfielder Marko Jevtovic scored the equalizer yesterday and we heard from him after the game:

– Boss warned us about this game and we knew what to expect. I never want to lose points and although we won there`s a bitter feeling around. Pitch surface was tough to play on, Mladost was hugely motivated and on top of it this match came in between two European encounters, says Jevtovic.

What was the ace up the sleeve Mladost used against Partizan?

– They didn`t surprise us with their formation and we knew what kind of encounter to expect but we were not on the level required ourselves to win it with ease. We thought it was going to be easy especially after fine performance against Plzen but that was never going to happen when you play against organized opposition with quality individuals. We entered the game poorly allowing Mladost to feel strong while we started being nervous and rushed to finish our attacks. We needed to be more clever and calmer in many game situations but this is fine warning ahead of more challenges.

It seems like player`s thoughts were turned to Thursday`s game against Viktoria Plzen?

– That`s the most important game of the season so far and Viktoria is one great side brilliantly led by their coaching team. We were controlling the pace in Belgrade but entered the series of small mistakes that lead to Viktoria scoring a goal soon after. We were punished for it. Partizan has a recipe for big games and we played those big encounters quite good so far. Thefefore, I believe we can produce one more fine performance and if we are smart enough another page in Partizan history books will be written.