Lee: We're not favourites

Bolton boss sees hard work ahead

By Peter Fraser   Last updated: 20th September 2007

Lee Sammy

Lee: Hard work

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Bolton manager Sammy Lee insists his side are not favourites to progress to the second round of the Uefa Cup despite a 1-1 draw with Rabotnicki Kometal.

A goal from Abdoulaye Meite seven minutes from time secured a 1-1 away draw against Rabotnicki, who had taken the lead through Nemanja Milisavlevic, in the first round first leg.

However, Lee believes Bolton - who ended a run of five defeats in six games - still have a lot of hard work ahead of them if they are to progress.

"It is still only half-time and we have still got a lot to play for at the Reebok Stadium," said Lee.

"We are not favourites in my book. I have too much respect for the opposition to claim that.

Bread and butter

"There is still the second half of this tie to go and it will be another difficult game."

"We struggled to contend with 50-yard balls launched over the top and that is a concern for me."

Lee also acknowledges that his side were fortunate to grab an equaliser after Rabotnicki goalkeeper Filip Madzovski fumbled a Nicolas Anelka free-kick to allow Meite to pounce.

"You always need luck in games," Lee added. "It does play a part.

"I was pleased with the effort and commitment and the number of chances we created.

"We have a good squad, a strong squad. We want to progress in Europe and compete in the Premier League as well. That is our bread and butter."