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Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo refuses to criticise referee after Bournemouth draw

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Nuno Espirito Santo says referees have a very difficult job following three penalty awards during Wolves' 1-1 draw at Bournemouth

Nuno Espirito Santo refused to blame referee Roger East after his Wolves side were held to a controversial 1-1 draw at Bournemouth on Saturday.

The official, who was a late replacement at the Vitality, awarded the visitors a late penalty that Raul Jimenez converted to earn them a point on the south coast.

However, the referee also missed another possible spot-kick after Bournemouth defender Chris Mepham appeared to handle the ball in the box before the break, before then awarding the hosts a debatable penalty with five minutes to go.

"The result we never know and justice in football is sometimes not so fair if you want," said the Portuguese.

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Highlights from Bournemouth's 1-1 draw against Wolves in the Premier League.

"But what I saw was a very emotional and competitive game, both teams trying to win the game. First half, I think we played really well, second half not so well.

"But against a very tough team, Bournemouth here in Vitality Stadium is very tough, they have good players and Eddie [Howe] is doing a fantastic job.

"So happy with the performance of the boys in such a difficult space.

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"When circumstances and incidents happen in the game, you cannot lose your focus. Until Bournemouth's penalty, we were in the game. After that, we lose a little bit of composure and allow Bournemouth to control the game.

Raul Jimenez celebrates hauling Wolves level at Bournemouth
Image: Raul Jimenez celebrates hauling Wolves level at Bournemouth

"So this is the one aspect that we must work and improve."

In a feisty contest that produced 25 fouls and 10 yellows, Wolves also felt Bournemouth should have been reduced to 10 men after midfielder Jefferson Lerma was only booked after his flying elbow left a furious Joao Moutinho with a bloodied face.

"He is bleeding and in pain, he has some heavy bleeding in his mouth," said Nuno.

"He was not happy at all and a short man angry is tough!"

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