JONATHAN Woodgate admitted Cherries were “absolutely knackered” following their 3-0 defeat to Southampton at Vitality Stadium.
The Dorset club missed the chance to reach the last four of the FA Cup for the first time in their history, after a Nathan Redmond double and Moussa Djenepo’s opener earned their south coast neighbours a convincing win.
And Woodgate, whose side have played 43 games in all competitions this campaign, revealed his charges were feeling the effects of a gruelling Championship schedule.
“The players are absolutely knackered, to be honest with you,” said the Cherries’ head coach.
“We’ve played Saturday-Tuesday-Saturday-Wednesday for God knows how long. It’s been difficult.
“They’ve got some exceptional players in their team. We just looked knackered, out on our feet to be honest with you.
“Southampton were more clinical in the box and showed some exceptional finishing.”
The Dorset club were without seven members of their squad for the clash with Saints.
Cherries will now have a break in action before taking on Middlesbrough in the Championship on April 2.
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