One of the best goalkeepers in the country was the difference between Wolves taking all three points after a performance Hoddle told his players to "be proud of".

Niemi, who was close to joining Wolves prior to signing for Southampton made three superb stops during the game including a fantastic save from the impressive Kenny Miller in the second half.

"I told my players they should be proud of the way they played and their performance," Said Hoddle after the game.

"We did not get the three points we deserved because we were the strongest side on the day but at the end of the season a draw at Southampton will be regarded as a good point."

Wolves started well and Niemi made his first superb save of the day when he beat away Mark Kennedy's swerving effort after just ten minutes.

Wolves dominated in the final third but could find no way past Niemi and the only time the he was beaten Carl Cort saw his effort smash off the crossbar.

The second half was different however and Southampton came out to frustrate Wolves. Ricardo Fuller and Jones came close but the home side were unable to break down the solid Wolves defence.

Wolves looked set to have won the game ten minutes from time but Niemi dived low to his right to tip away a superb effort from Kenny Miller meaning Wolves ended the first game of the season with a draw.

"I was disappointed it is another draw and people will be saying we should be winning more but I have to make sure that it does not become a pattern." Said Hoddle.

"What we must do now is to make sure Molineux becomes a fortress. That is where we need to succeed."

More reaction tomorrow.

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