COREY Neilson says Nottingham Panthers were punished for missed chances which led to big errors in the shock 5-1 home defeat to Fife Flyers.
Panthers conceded four in the second period to go five down and though they dominated the final period they had left themselves too much to do against their out of form Elite League rivals.
The head coach said: "It was a tough day for everyone. I thought we came out and played OK for a period and did some good things.
"They scored on a power play from a shot I don't think should go in. The second period starts, we're already behind and this team is struggling to score.
"You go two behind and you press and press and then make mistakes. We had D all over the place and forwards not as responsible as they were at the start.
"It snowballs but we've dominated for about 30 minutes and scored one goal. The players know that and they feel the pressure to score. The fact is we are creating chances and they don't go in."
Fife goaltender Kevin Regan was on top of his game but opposite number Mattias Modig was pulled after the fifth goal went in, however, Neilson says the Swede was not to blame after he was left exposed time and again.
"Everyone has tough nights. He's been good for us and we want to protect him," he said.
"Their goal tender was really good and made some great saves. When we got chances we didn't take them against a Fife team that played well."
