David Moyes and Eddie Howe have their say on Saturday’s happenings at the Vitality Stadium which saw Sunderland seal their first win in the Premier League.
Post-match verdict
Moyes: “I think they have been battling and showing great spirit. I don’t think it’s their lack of effort or commitment. If you asked what it had been then I think it’s our lack of quality at different times and we need to keep at it. Bournemouth was a difficult game because they have had good results against Tottenham and Everton so don’t be kidded because this was a tough game to come here and win.”
Howe: “We had enough chances. In the last two games we've had guilt-edged chances. We get six against Hull and look free scoring and full of confidence, to creating a hatful of chances and not finishing them off. It was a hugely frustrating afternoon. We should have gone 2-0 ahead in the first half, as we had great opportunities.”
Striking issue
Moyes: “Victor was great. He played really well for us against Bournemouth. He caused them problems all game and they found it very difficult to deal with him. He got us the first goal and the minute he got the ball into his feet I shouted ‘goal’ because he has got that ability to do that. Then obviously he made a good run and earned us a penalty so it was a really good performance by him.”
Howe: “Benik Afobe did well when he came on against Middlesbrough and you were just willing him to hit the net against Sunderland. Unfortunately, it didn't happen. I think every striker needs to feel that confidence you get from scoring goals. It won't be far away for him if he continues to work as hard as he has in training. That's the challenge for him. He has impressed me in training and has shown a great attitude to his work despite not featuring regularly."
International break – what now?
Moyes: “It is one win in the bag and we know we are going to need another nine or ten if we are to make sure we are a Premier League club.”
Howe: "It was a very disappointed dressing room. The players are hungry to win games. The aim now is to bounce back. With our style of football is it's an easy tag to say you need to win ugly or do certain things. But we play this way, it's the way we believe in. And obviously we have to do it better to win more games.”
