Questions need to be answered vs Barrow

After Bolton’s short-lasting unbeaten run of two League games came to an end, the defeat this weekend has left many questions to be answered.

Facing local side Oldham, I’m sure most fans would’ve expected us to take away the three points. In fact, the very opposite happened. A lack of threat going forward and defensive mistakes cost Bolton the game again, which is becoming a recurring theme this season. The win against Harrogate looked like the team had finally turned a corner, the winless September was forgotten and Evatt was finally smiling.

But it seems like the corner wasn’t turned, a tedious display vs Grimsby last week and a frustrating afternoon vs Oldham sees Bolton lie in the bottom half of the Fourth Tier with just 4 points to their name.

The attitude and commitment shown by the players in recent performances really reflects our results, with a lack of desire or leadership on the pitch. But, personally, I think you have to look at Evatt’s substitutions to the game. The replacement of Crawford, arguably the most creative player (or should be) going forward for Gnahoua, meant goal scorer Delfouneso was placed behind the striker. A bizarre replacement to the game must have left Ronan Darcy sitting on the bench scratching his head, along with most Bolton fans watching yesterday. The young, energetic play-maker has yet to be involved in a League game this season and has to be given a chance in that midfield sometime soon. Evatt’s changes are too negative, last week his substitutions to the game saw a centre half, defensive midfielder and a wing-back introduced with twenty minutes to go. Watching along vs Grimsby, it looked like he was happy to hold on for a goalless draw.

Searching for a response on Tuesday night, Bolton travel to Evatt’s old club Barrow. Newly promoted to the fourth division and yet to win in the league this season, Barrow will be eager to find their first three points of David Dunn’s campaign.

Hopeful for more desire to be shown by the players, Evatt has to make a change. A change in formation could see more attacking, expansive football and better decisions with the substitutions from the side-line may see a more positive approach towards the end of the game on Tuesday night.

Let’s just hope Darcy trains like a “galactico” this week, maybe that’s the only way we’ll watch him play this season.