Bolton look to turn tide

Tuesday, 01/11/2011

by Emma Norris, Shoot's Bolton blogger

Following Saturday’s defeat to newly promoted Swansea City, it seems safe to say that this weekend’s game against Stoke City could make or break Bolton Wanderers’ season.

Currently occupying 19th position in the league standings, nothing seems to be going right for Owen Coyle’s side of late.

Luck appears to be conspiring against the Whites and coupled with the cruellest of injuries to key players, times could not be much tougher.

Having been given the most daunting set of opening fixtures that included the likes of Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea, many pundits were already writing the team off before a ball had been kicked.

The loss of Stuart Holden and Chung-Yong Lee surely must be considered to be the most influential point in the Wanderers’ recent struggles however, with the pair being sorely missed.

It had looked as though Holden was set to make his return last month, but fate was to be cruel as it was announced that he was set to be side-lined for yet another six months.

This was undoubtedly a killer blow for everybody associated with the club, but especially Coyle. The Scot will have prepared for the season during the summer firmly believing that the USA international would be a part of his plans, but the shock announcement will have knocked him sideways.

Almost two months into the season, the Whites had no opportunity to bring in a replacement for such an integral player and the lack of his presence has been noted.

The visit of Tony Pulis’ side on Sunday afternoon has now gained even more importance than it had originally.

Coupled with the label of a grudge match following the infamous FA Cup semi-final defeat back in April, the team and fans alike will be desperately craving payback alongside a vital three points.

The stage already appears to be set for the game – it was revealed that Howard Webb will officiate the affair, as he did on that fateful day at Wembley.

It would seem that luck must surely shine on the Wanderers sooner rather than later, and when more fitting than against the team who have no doubt contributed heavily to the team’s current situation?

With the semi-final defeat still fresh in the memory of many Bolton supporters, the game could be the perfect way to bookend what has been a torrid run of form.

The tide must turn eventually, and victory over the Potters would provide everybody associated with Bolton Wanderers with a much needed confidence boost.

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