Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe proud of players

Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe paid tribute to his side after their 18-match unbeaten run came to an end in the FA Cup on Tuesday.

The Cherries were beaten 1-0 by Premier League Wigan in their third-round replay at the Goldsands Stadium.

It was their first defeat since Howe returned as manager in October.

"I'm very proud," Howe told BBC Radio Solent. "I think we had the best chances in the two games and tonight we've done everything but score."

Mauro Boselli's first-half strike proved enough for Wigan to advance, but the Cherries went close to equalising with Eunan O'Kane and later Marc Pugh both hitting the crossbar while Ali Al Habsi also pulled off a string of saves for the Latics.

"Their keeper made some great saves. He is one of the best keepers in the Premier League," added Howe.

"We hit the woodwork a couple of times so we are desperately disappointed but proud of the players because the second half was a top performance."

The Goldsands Stadium was near capacity on Tuesday as it was for the visit of Swindon in the league and Howe says he hopes the two games will convince supporters to keep coming back.

"It has been a great advert for what we are trying to do and hopefully the fans have been entertained although we didn't get the right result that we desperately wanted," he said.

"We've got a lot of quality and I cannot thank the fans enough for their support."

The Cherries suffered a trio of injury scares with Lewis Grabban (knee), Josh McQuoid (calf) and O'Kane (ankle) all doubts for the weekend,

"It's not what we need with a lot of games coming up and that is a worry," added Howe.

"The players have put in a huge physical effort and we have to make sure we recover for Walsall."

Meanwhile, Howe has refused to comment on reports that the club have agreed a deal with Aberdeen for winger Ryan Fraser.

"I can't tell you a lot, we'll see," said Howe.

"We won't comment until we actually sign players and we haven't signed anyone at the moment."