Second half performance pleases Nuno

Nuno Espiritio Santo was pleased with his side’s second half performance as Wolves came from behind to take a point against Fulham on Boxing Day.

Romain Saiss’ 85th minute tap-in cancelled out Ryan Sessegnon’s opener at Craven Cottage, in a match Wolves dominated in terms of possession.

Although not too happy with the first half showing from his team, Nuno felt his side improved after the break following the introduction of substitutes Ivan Cavaleiro and Helder Costa.

On test Fulham posed

“It was a tough game. First half I think both teams were cautious and trying to play, but second half it was totally different. We had a lot of the ball and moved the ball around, but Fulham were so organised and there was no space. It was so tight, so compact, which made it difficult.

“When they scored I really felt it was unfair because we had so much of the ball. Even though we didn’t have clear chances, we were closer to achieving a goal. I think we were rewarded when we scored, but it was tough, a tough game.

“I think it proves, that as the season goes on, these kind of games will be more and more likely because the results mean so much to the teams. The football is not so open and well played.

“I’m very happy with the second half performance, but first half I think we didn’t quite get in the game.”

On making changes at half-time

“The first half we didn’t play for both sides of the pitch. The left side was not working out, so we had to change and look for solutions. The team clearly needed more width to allow them to open the spaces inside.

“We had to find solutions and I think we did better with the width on both sides with the wingers, Helder and Cav, and the team played well.

“Maybe it was because of their characteristics, they give width in the wide areas and go one-v-one, give us more balance and we managed to play much better in the second half. I thought we were the better team.

“I felt we were closer and our attitude was more active to go for the game. Fulham were always looking for Mitrovic and counter-attacks, which made it really difficult to play.”

On squad rotation

“What we expect every time we chose the team or make a decision is that the team performs well. It doesn’t mean your place in the starting 11 is guaranteed. We have to look, now we have to rest, and prepare for the next game because it’s going to be very tough.

“For sure we require another approach, in terms of what we decide, because this schedule is very tight. It’s a tough schedule, it’s very difficult for the players. Three days between games is very hard, especially with this kind of intensity, so we have to rest well.

“I think it’s too many games, honesty, but I respect the atmosphere in the stadium, which was fantastic.”

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