Bolton Wanderers 1, Lincoln City 1
Freddie Draper’s opener in the first minute was undone with the last kick of the game as Bolton’s 97th minute equaliser meant the points were shared at the Toughsheet Community Stadium.
Draper’s second strike in as many games saw the Imps off to a flying start, before second-half pressure from the hosts eventually told as Tom Hamer was unable to divert a low cross away from goal and directed it inadvertently into the City net.
The Imps stormed into the lead on Saturday after just 19 seconds through Draper. The forward was too strong in challenging former Imp Ethan Erhahon aerially, before making a run into the Bolton penalty area to meet Reeco Hackett’s pinpoint cross and head the Imps into a very early lead.
City withstood pressure from Wanderers with George Wickens producing a fine double save to keep the hosts out and the visitors had their own chances.
A double substitution at half time saw Bolton increase that pressure with Wickens performing heroics between the posts and City almost made across the line with an away victory.
Seven minutes of extra time were added and Wanderers found the breakthrough with their final attack. Amario Cozier-Duberry broke down the City right before firing a low cross into the path of a helpless Hamer who, despite his best efforts, was unable to divert the ball anywhere other than into the City net on the 97th minute.
City head coach Michael Skubala praised his team’s performance: The lads were magnificent and defended like warriors throughout. It was a tremendous performance, and the players executed the game plan incredibly well.
“We started fast and aggressive on the press, and of course made the perfect start with the goal.
“This is a really tough place to come, Bolton have some excellent players, but the performance from us today was excellent.
“I’m disappointed with the ending to the game, but really pleased with how we played.
“When you come away from Northampton and Bolton with four points from six, you take it, but the time in the game we conceded does sting a little.
“I’m sure when we get back to the EPC on Monday, we’ll reflect on how good the performance was and move forward.”
Unsurprisingly the City boss singled out Wickens: “George was brilliant today, he made two or three big saves for us today and in midweek.
“He’s growing all the time, his kicking is getting better, his balance and how he supports play.
“There were two or three really big saves from George today, he was excellent.”
Attendance: 19,938
Pictures: Vaughan Photography
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