Norwich City boss Lambert hails fighting spirit

Norwich City boss Paul Lambert was delighted with his men's fightback in today's Premier League opening day 1-1 draw at Wigan.

Wes Hoolahan cancelled out Ben Watson's early penalty in the closing stages of the first half at the DW Stadium in front of 4,500 travelling supporters.

'Great credit to them and they showed a great desire not to get beat,' he said. 'I said last year if you can't win a game then make sure that you don't lose it. They kept on going for me. The spirit is there.

'I think we've got to be happy with that. It's not an easy place to come and I think we gave as good as we got.'

Lambert singled out Ritchie De Laet for special praise after the Man United loanee was adjudged to have hauled down Franco Di Santo.

'I couldn't see it. I know that's something you don't want to hear. I would have to see it again – Ritchie has made the mistake but he has also redeemed himself towards the end with the two blocks,' said Lambert. 'He is only a young player and that's what happens when you're young. Sometimes you make mistakes in vital areas of the pitch especially against top players. Hopefully, he'll learn from it but you have to give him enormous credit for his blocks at the end.'