Adaptability to conditions a positive for Nuno

Adaptability to tough conditions and a solid Bournemouth side saw Wolves pick up a third successive victory and please their head coach, Nuno Espirito Santo.

In swirling wind and pouring rain, Wolves showed character in abundance and were rewarded by Raul Jimenez’s early tap in and Ivan Cavaleiro’s sealer in injury time.

The versatility to all aspects and conditions were what pleased a proud Nuno most post-match. 

On character in tough conditions

“The boys playing in this weather, in the rain, and how hard it was, I’m very proud of them today. They did a fantastic job because we have to adapt to the realities. We were versatile enough to realise that today was about defending and counter attacks - exploiting our talent to achieve what we achieved today, a deserved win.

“The organisation, the shape and how compact we were. We didn’t allow too many situations to Bournemouth, who are a fantastic team and played very well. Always trying to help our team mates is what defending is all about. There were not many chances, it was very hard for both teams. They matched us in shape, it was a tough game. We are happy but credit to Bournemouth, it was very difficult.”

On third win in a row

“We achieved a third win, but it’s not over, we have to go again. Before we were in a bad moment, now we’re in a good moment and why is important to recognise. Their character, the way they commit themselves to the work on a daily basis and to the competition so well done.

“I’m very proud of the work we do every day. The character took us out of the bad moment. The only secret is work, we have to work hard. We do the same things, we were committed and football is like this. It’s life, sometimes you have bad moments, sometimes you have good moment. Rising up, reacting and bouncing back is what I’m most proud of.”

On first clean sheet since October

“We want to build a shape which is versatile and adaptable enough to any opposition required. There were moments when we had good possession of the ball and counter attacked, but all the game we defended well. The first principle is a clean sheet which is very important. Everyone was working together as a team because the only solution is to defend and attack as a team.”

On carrying positives into Friday

“The main thing was staying compact, staying balanced, not allowing a fantastic team like Bournemouth chances. We were robust, stayed in the game. The goal came late but there were chances before on counter attacks and good combinations, which require better decisions but it’s the work we have to prepare for Friday.

"It was a deserved win for our fans and we felt their support. Now, the only thing I think is Friday and how tough it’s going to be.”

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