Leyton Orient boss Richie Wellens says Wanderers’ quality off the bench was the difference as his side were beaten 2-1 on the opening day.
Charlie Kelman had cancelled out Dion Charles’ opener but Victor Adeboyejo pounced on a mistake by Zach Hemming 15 minutes from time to secure all three points.
Wellens also praised Nathan Baxter, who made several impressive stops including a brilliant save to deny Kelman in the final stages.
“It is disappointing in terms of the result but other than that, there are so many positives,” he told the club channels. “We went toe-to-toe with them.
“I think they started the game better, obviously the first attack they score with. I didn’t think it was possible that the shot could go in, it took four or five bounces but it has gone in off the post.
“We got more aggressive and grew into the game, we believed more. I think for the last 20 minutes of the first half, we were the better team and had the better chances.
“Their keeper, the save he pulls off from Charlie is unbelievable. Well done to him because I thought he was very, very good.”
Wellens added: “Their subs made an impact because they have got a big squad. I have not seen that from Zach Hemming once.
"We make a mistake which I hope he doesn’t do again, he will learn from that. And the goalkeeper at the other end pulls off two or three fantastic saves.”
The Orient boss felt his side lacked “belief” at times but is optimistic there is a platform to build on in the coming weeks and months.
“In the first half we just needed belief,” Wellens continued. “To get where we want to get to, we haven’t got the biggest budget.
“We have got a team of free transfers and they have spent a lot. We have to build people up but they have to believe.
“I think we have some of the best players in the league in their position but if they don’t believe it, we are always playing catch-up. If they start believing, we can pick up wins and be competitive in this league.
“I would imagine they are second or third favourites (behind) Birmingham, not lost many players and added to it, but we were so competitive and went toe-to-toe with them. It is a credit to the football club and the players.”
Wellens also played down the scuffle that took place after the final whistle at Brisbane Road.
“It was nothing,” he insisted. “I don’t think Lolos was happy with the tackle (by Dan Happe). It was an honest tackle but he caught him.
“There was a little bit of a skirmish but everyone came in and broke it away, there were no arms thrown and there was no aggression. The referee just pulled myself and Ian and is ready to put it to bed.”
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