Metz head coach Albert Cartier has claimed that he was proud of his side's performance in the 3-2 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain on Friday night.
After falling two goals behind inside 16 minutes at the Stade Saint-Symphorien, Metz fought back with two penalties from Modibo Maiga, before seeing a point stolen away when Ezequiel Lavezzi scored a late winner for the champions.
Cartier was eager to remain positive when reflecting on the game, but he concedes that his side must improve in defence if they are to avoid similar defeats.
"We're disappointed not to have started the match very well. It's tough because getting back to 2-2 was in itself a great performance," the Metz boss told reporters.
"Paris showed that they had the quality to make the win happen. With some fresh blood in the second half, things worked better for us, with more energy.
"I'm angry with myself for not having given my lads the serenity they needed heading into this match. What we need to hang onto is that we were fragile in defence, which is far from reassuring and on which we need to do some hard work. But my squad has a lot of heart and a lot of pride."
Metz, who are 11th in the table, return to action against Lens next Saturday.
Callum Mulvihill
