Manager's Birmingham Reaction

"We had to be patient but our build-up got the rewards," says Dougie Freedman

Dougie Freedman paid tribute to the character shown by his players, after Wanderers came from a goal down to beat Birmingham City 3-1.

The Whites saw out 2012 with a comfortable victory over the Blues thanks to goals from Marcos Alonso, Chung-Yong Lee and Keith Andrews.

Speaking in his post-match press the manager said: “It was a great performance today and when you achieve that as a coach it’s very pleasing. 

"The players showed courage when we went 1-0 down, and all credit to them. It’s difficult to make up the ground when you have conceded, but we have shown in games that we have the mental strength and desire to do just that.

"We know teams will come to the Reebok and sit back against us, and we have to get used to that. Birmingham were dogged in their defending, and the way they set up made things very difficult for us.

"Across the 90 minutes I thought we were composed, we passed and moved the ball well, worked hard when we didn't have the ball, and covered the ground in midfield.

"We had to be patient but our build-up got the rewards in the end and the fans had three goals to cheer. Without a doubt the best team won today.

"There were a number of good performances today across the park. I thought Darren Pratley stood up, worked hard and gave everything. Kevin Davies led the line and it was a great goal that Chung-Yong Lee scored. He’s had a very difficult year with injury, but when he comes into training he gives nothing less than 100 percent. He’s well prepared and ready to work hard.

"Next we go into a difficult game at Elland Road on New Year's Day. It's a quick turnaround and we go there knowing that we have to build on today's performance.

"I'm working with a great bunch of lads who are desperate to do well, they’re putting in the work on the training ground and they're determined and focussed.

"I would like to thank the fans for the support I've had since I've been here and I'm pleased to end the year with a win."
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