Neil Lennon left both frustrated and encouraged by Bolton’s performance at Hillsborough
Neil Lennon says he has mixed emotions following Bolton’s 3-2 defeat away at Sheffield Wednesday.
Bolton twice battle back from a goal down to draw level but were ultimately beaten, with Gary Hooper scoring the decisive goal on what was a bitterly cold night at Hillsborough.
But despite defeat, the manager saw encouraging signs and has now challenged his players to perform in the same manner on a consistent basis.
“We played very well and for me the better team lost on the night,” Lennon said in his post-match press conference.
“We had three or four great chances when the game was at 2-2 to go ahead and take the lead. Our reaction to going a goal down twice was also very good.
“For me, that’s the best we’ve played away from home for a long time. What we need now is a consistency in our games going forward.
“We were playing a quality side who have invested a lot of money in their squad. I obviously know Gary Hooper very well and he got two goals tonight. He was pretty much the difference tonight.
“But there were some outstanding performances from our players. I thought Gary Madine, Liam Trotter, Wellington Silva and Darren Pratley were all superb. There is plenty of encouragement there going forward.
“It was a cracking game of football in what are difficult circumstances for everyone associated with the club.”