Cheltenham Town 0-3 Bolton Wanderers - match review

 Dion Charles domination 

Bolton Wanderers took on Cheltenham Town at Whaddon Road (The completely-suzuki stadium) and comfortably won 3-0. Dion Charles scored 2 of the goals and Kyle Dempsey scored the other (possibly a Liam Smith own goal), all goals were scored in the first half of play. Another tactical masterclass from Ian Evatt, on Saturday, saw the Wanderers ease to victory.

Statistical review 

This will be a common theme throughout the season, however it is still important to note, Bolton again dominated possession, having 74% of the ball, despite being away from home. This domination assisted in the shot numbers (they also show a performance of domination) Bolton took 16 shots, 7 being on target and Cheltenham only had 5 shots, with 2 on target. For the first time this season, Bolton have converted the big chance they created - the first goal, with Dion Charles slotting it home. Jack Iredale was very impressive at the back and was very involved in the attacking play (having 94 touches), Adeboyejo was also impressive - making 2 key passes and creating 1 big chance. 

Analysis of each goal

The first goal was scored in the 15th minute by Dion Charles, assisted by his striking partner Victor Adeboyejo. Josh Sheehan picked up the ball just ahead of the halfway line and played a pass into Adeboyejo's feet, breaking two lines of pressure with the pass. Adeboyejo flicked the pass around the corner, first time, and played it into the pass of Dion Charles. His first touch was very good and it gave him a yard on the defender and he finished it well, slotting the ball into the bottom right corner. 

Another set piece goal for Bolton Wanderers, this time from a free kick. Aaron Morley and Randell Williams both stood over the ball but it was the number 16 to take it, this was an in-swinger at the goal. Kyle Dempsey made the run at the near post and Morley found him with pace and power, this created confusion and the ball deflected off the Cheltenham defender (Smith) to make it 2-0 for the Wanderers. 

In the 33rd minute Dion Charles scored his second of the game and the third of the game for Bolton and it was spectacular. Randell Williams took a throw-in deep into the Cheltenham half, Dempsey peeled off his man and made himself available. He attempted a cross but it was poor and cut out easily but it was a poor clearance and the ball fell to Dion Charles on the edge of the box. From this angle, he was able to strike the ball into the far, bottom right corner past the goalkeeper with ease. 

Overall review

From watching this game, it became clear to me what Evatt wants to see from his outside centre backs. Both Iredale and Gethin Jones played high up the pitch and were involved in the attacking play, this helped outnumber the Cheltenham defence. Jack Iredale really impressed me and he uses his vision to find and play passes the most centre backs won't be able to play. Despite being out of position, he is playing incredibly well and he won't lose his place in the starting team for a while if he can keep up this form. 

Another standout performer was Victor Adeboyejo, specifically his link-up play was very impressive. For the first goal he was very involved and that was the best example of his quick link-up play. Bolton should look to play into his feet more, he can use his strength to hold off defenders and his first touch is good enough to either play it first time or hold onto the ball and wait for runners. Dan Nlundulu will also be able to do this, but not to the same level. 

My only criticism of this game would, with another game on Tuesday, not making substitutions any earlier. The game stagnated after half time and the introduction of Maghoma or Mendes Gomes earlier could've inspired another goal in the second half. Rotation may be made on Tuesday and it will be interetsing to seethe performance then.