Monday 10 November 2014 10:49, UK
Eddie Howe insisted second-placed Bournemouth will not rest on their laurels after continuing their fine start to the campaign with a goalless draw in the top-of-the-table Sky Bet Championship match at Middlesbrough.
Howe's men headed to the Riverside on Saturday riding high at the summit of the standings, a remarkable feat for a club which almost slipped out of the Football League just five and a half years ago amid crippling financial issues.
The manner of their performance certainly hinted that Bournemouth are here to stay, with the visitors creating the better of the chances.
Howe declared himself satisfied with the result, which leaves his side just a point adrift of Derby - who reclaimed top spot with a 5-0 drubbing of Wolves.
He said: "It was really nip-and-tuck. I thought it was a high-quality game. Middlesbrough started better but we grew into the game.
"We had the best chances in the game and our goalkeeper had little to do, which is a good sign.
"We came here to win and we were positive. Middlesbrough are a good side who have been on a good run, like we have.
"We are happy with a point but it shows the mentality of the side that we're a little disappointed not to win.
"We were aware it was going to be a tough examination. We have picked up some valuable points on the road and this was another one."
Burnley last year proved that unlikely promotions are possible when they overcame pre-season relegation tips to reach the Barclays Premier League.
And Howe admits Bournemouth can take inspiration from his former club, adding: "These are exciting times. We did not really expect to be in this position and we are enjoying it.
"Every club in the Championship is looking at Burnley to see what can be achieved with a small squad and limited resources.
"They had two excellent goalscorers and we are a very different proposition, but there are principles there that we can take."
Difficult
Middlesbrough are enjoying an equally impressive start themselves and sit behind Bournemouth on goal difference in third.
Boss Aitor Karanka said: "I am very happy because it was a very difficult game. You could feel the excited atmosphere.
"I think the players were a little anxious and I can understand that. It's a new situation for us and we played against one of the best teams in the league.
"It is no coincidence that they are where they are so I am very happy. I am very pleased because it's just one year since I arrived.
"One year ago, we were eight points below the play-offs and now we are four points ahead of seventh.
"We know it will be difficult to keep this position but if we work in the same way, we will get to our objective."
