Meath manager Andy McEntee says it's "frustrating" that his team didn't put the game "to bed" after they lost to Mayo in round two of the Super 8s at Croke Park.
The Royals lost on a scoreline of 2-17 to 14 points, with Mayo's goals coming from a rebounded penalty by Cillian O'Connor and Kevin McLoughlin. Despite losing by nine points for the second week in a row, Meath were only one point down with 16 minutes left to play.
Last week in Ballybofey Meath led Donegal by nine points heading into the last fifteen minutes.
After the game today in Croke Park, Andy McEntee was asked whether he thought the final score reflected their performance, he said, "we just have to learn to make the most of good situations, and we were in a good situation again there today - no more so than we were last week. And we didn't put it to bed.
"That's frustrating for me, and it's hugely frustrating for the lads. They put in a huge effort. They've made great progress. Croke Park against teams like Mayo and Ballybofey against teams like Donegal, it's a pretty tough school ground. Hopefully, we'll have learned a good few lessons.
"We nearly had Donegal last week too. It's becoming a bit too common. I can't complain. It's been fantastic to be playing in these games at this time of the year. The lads have been brilliant. I feel for them.
"Every intercounty team puts in a massive effort. These lads have put in a huge shift. We have made progress and in the cold light of day, we will look back and say it's been a good year. Right here, right now it's not a nice dressing room to be in."
Meath welcome Kerry to Pairc Tailteann in Navan in two weeks time for the final game of this year's Super 8s.
