A very good performance against a strong Bolton side. I was gutted for the players that we did not win in ninety minutes as we deserved to, but we showed good character to go on and win the shootout.
In the first half we were completely dominant and played some of our best passing football of the season. Inevitably, Bolton improved after the break and created chances, but we had numerous opportunities of our own. We had actually managed the last twenty minutes very well and Bolton's equaliser came very much out of the blue at that point.
I thought most players did very well, but Simeu and the midfield quartet were outstanding. Morris did what he always does, but Merrie had an excellent game with several penetrating forward passes and two assists, and Hughes looked very classy again, both in possession and breaking forward into the box. I thought MaClear also had his best game for a while.
We looked very comfortable on the ball all night, and I think Morris and Hughes were largely responsible for that, due to their composure in possession. There will hopefully be good competition for places in the midfield in the weeks ahead.
It is a tinpot competition, but tonight's game was very competitive and had a bit of needle, and it was good to see us playing with confidence and looking sharp and aggressive. Another step in the right direction.