CHERRIES boss Eddie Howe was adamant that his players deserved full credit for executing the tactics that tore apart Wigan at Dean Court.

The home side caused havoc down the wings in particular as they claimed their first win in the Championship since August 16.

A goal in each half from Yann Kermorgant and Simon Francis secured a 2-0 victory, with both efforts coming as a result of penetrative play down the flanks.

When questioned about the effective game plan, Howe told the Daily Echo: “You’re only ever as good as the players that step on the pitch – that’s a fact.

“I thought that tactically the players were excellent. As a manager you can do what you want but the players have to deliver and to a man I thought we were disciplined, resolute and showed a lot of quality, especially with the second goal.

“That was really pleasing to see, not just because Simon Francis’s tireless forward runs were rewarded, but the manner in which it was created. When you are a coach, you are delighted to see a goal like that go in.

“We do have goals in us as a side and if we can keep more clean sheets, it’s obvious we’re going to get more points.

“But you need to get both disciplines right. To get goals you have to commit bodies forward while maintaining a balance and I thought we got that spot on.”

Howe reserved additional praise for Kermorgant after the Frenchman netted his first goal since the opening-day rout at Huddersfield.

Kermorgant also provided an assist for Francis’ effort and boss Howe said that the striker was a key cog in his first-team squad.

Howe added: “I’m very pleased Yann got his goal and, hopefully, it will do him the world of good and he can kick on from here.

“He is so good with his head that you want to see him in the box a little bit more.

“He showed a moment of quality and that helped get us a big three points.

“We need Yann fit and firing and at the top of his game because if he is, we’re a different side.”

Howe confirmed that winger Ryan Fraser had not been included in the squad due to a calf problem, while he also revealed that Tokelo Rantie was still building up his fitness following a recent injury.