Fulham 2 Bolton Wanderers 0: We’re in a dogfight, admits Coyle
Owen Coyle conceded his side are involved in a relegation scrap following their 2-0 defeat by Fulham on Saturday
Owen Coyle has admitted rock-bottom Bolton Wanderers are in a relegation “dogfight” after their comprehensive two-goal defeat by Fulham at Craven Cottage.
It marked Bolton’s fourth successive loss and leaves Coyle’s side languishing at the bottom of the table, five points from safety.
Coyle criticised his players for their lack of passion in west London and demanded an improved performance in their crucial clash against fellow strugglers Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park on Tuesday.
“We have let the opportunity to pass us by and it’s getting repetitive saying the same things,” said the Bolton manager. “It’s not like we are five or six games into the season. We’ve made some mistakes and we are in real dogfight now.
“Players must show passion and be ready to give better performances. Those 30 seconds [for the goals] have cost us today.”
Clint Dempsey nodded Fulham ahead after 32 minutes, and the American then teed up Bryan Ruiz, who expertly chipped Jussi Jaaskelainen to seal victory for the Londoners before the break and heap further pressure on Coyle.
Meanwhile, Fulham boss Martin Jol was particularly pleased with the performances of Dempsey and Ruiz as the London side climbed up to 11th place in the table.
“We did well, especially in first half, and I was happy that my front players could make the difference, especially if you don’t concede goals,” he said.
