AFCB

First Team

Howe pleased with "pride to wear the badge"

AFC Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe was pleased with the fight of his squad against Southampton, saying that the "pride to wear the badge" was there in abundance at St Mary's.

In a real topsy-turvy game, Callum Wilson poached an equaliser in the 86th minute to hand Howe's men a point, despite the momentum of the game constantly swinging between the teams.

The manager told the written press after the game that he felt the character of the team was the most important aspect from the result.

ON WHETHER A POINT WAS A GOOD RESULT

I don't know.

I think after 20 minutes we'd have done anything for that point, but ask me after 95 minutes, I'm maybe not so happy.

We obviously had a big chance at the end when Callum went through, but the fighting characteristics of the team were back.

We've not come back from losing positions enough this season and to do that was a great sign.

The main thing from the team today is that the fighting spirit and determination was there and there was a real pride to wear the badge today.

ON CALLUM'S LATE CHANCE

It's one of those things, he's been a real threat and physically imposing all afternoon.

The fact he took his two goals well mean when he goes through we think it's a great chance to win it, but it wasn't to be.

ON TACTICS AND CHANGING THINGS UP

It was difficult as we suffered two injuries in the game, players were playing slightly out of position and it was a little bit of a disjointed shape.

We had to dig deep and we made an early tactical switch as we found it difficult to control the ball.

The change enabled us to do that and we were excellent until half time, there was a constant ebb and flow with each team taking the momentum.

It wasn't one for the defensive coaches to take too much from, but both teams really went for it. Both manager had to constantly reshuffle their tactics and from that perspective, it was an interesting one to be involved in.

It's great that both clubs are still in the Premier League.