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Fulham v Leeds - Post match reaction

last updated Sunday 02nd December 2001, 5:14 PM
Fulham manager Jean Tigana is still concentrating on securing his side's Premiership future before thinking about earning a European place.

He said: "The first step is to stay at this level - that is the priority for me. We need to get the points - that is the problem. Many people are happy, but I need the points. It was a big game for the crowd."

The Cottagers suffered the same problem that has dogged them all year - thrilling build-up play mixed with a lack of killer instinct. Tigana is trying to sort out the problem.

"We need more presence inside the box," he added. "At the end we have only one point. We need to win the next game against Everton."

David O'Leary does not believe Sir Alex Ferguson is really ready to concede the Barclaycard Premiership title.

"I wonder did Alex throw in the towel?" O'Leary told Sky Sports. "I'm not going to throw in the towel and I'm sure Manchester United are not going to throw in the towel."

O'Leary's Leeds team missed the opportunity to leapfrog Arsenal into second place behind Liverpool after their stalemate with Fulham at Craven Cottage - their fourth goalless draw of the season.

O'Leary was clearly not impressed with his side's performance, but admitted he was pleased to take a point. He said: "We know we can play better; we know we can work harder. The way we played today it was about all we deserved."We didn't pass the ball; we didn't show hunger and determination. We were sloppy all over the pitch."

O'Leary was, however, pleased with the part played by new £11million striker Robbie Fowler. "I thought he did excellently," said the Leeds manager. "I thought the lad needs games. His touch was good. Give him a run of games and get him up to speed, and he will be excellent."
Source sportinglife
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