Villa were held to a 0-0 draw at home to Alex McLeish's outfit as both teams failed to break the deadlock in an uninspiring clash.
However, Houllier's side had more chances in the latter half and the Frenchman feels that is where his men impressed.
"I think we finished the game better," Houllier told Sky Sports News.
"They looked more likely to win it in the first half, whereas in the second half we had a few chances and we made things a bit easier."
Nigel Reo-Coker took the captain's armband for the clash but was withdrawn by Houllier in the 82nd minute after being hit with a booking.
The manager admits he was looking to protect the midfielder, who also ran out for Villa on Wednesday evening in their 2-1 Carling Cup win over Burnley.
"You see it as you want," said Houllier of Reo-Coker's substitution.
"The only thing I can say is that he played two hours of football in midweek and he was outstanding in terms of effort.
"When you're tired you're not as in control and I just wanted to protect him."
Fulham 6/4, Aston Villa 7/4, Draw 12/5
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