Allardyce hails Bolton spirit
The win was a welcome relief for Allardyce
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Monday, 25, Sep 2006 10:05
Bolton boss Sam Allardyce was full of praise for his team after last night's hard-fought victory over Portsmouth at Fratton Park, with the Trotters having to survive a late onslaught from the one-time league leaders.
Kevin Nolan's first-half volley was enough to secure much-needed three points in what has been a difficult week for all at Bolton, and Allardyce explained he was delighted with his players' reaction.
"The spirit has grown in a difficult week and the lads have reacted, they've shown no effects apart from a terrific performance," he said.
"It was a typical backs-to-the-wall performance from 11 very committed, determined players."
The win, Bolton's first away victory in 2006, was hard on Portsmouth, who deserved at least a draw after another engaging performance.
But the killer touch escaped Harry Redknapp's men, with Zimbabwean forward Benjani Mwaruwari especially culpable after missing two gilt-edged chances.
The manager refused to apportion blame for the defeat, Portsmouth's first this season, instead choosing to praise his players' efforts and the display of Bolton keeper Jussi Jaaskelainen.
He said: "It was a difficult night because their keeper made four great saves but we didn't get a break.
"I couldn't have asked for any more from [the players], they pummelled away and if we play like that we will be ok," Redknapp added.
Allardyce also took the time to congratulate his goalkeeper, saying: "Jussi was terrific. We needed him and he's one of the reasons why we won. He made a massive contribution."