Bolton warmed up for the Sky Bet League One play-offs with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Bristol Rovers at the Memorial Stadium.
On-loan Manchester United striker Shola Shoretire put Bolton in front in the 24th minute, tapping in a goalbound effort from Gethin Jones – who soon limped off.
Things went from bad to worse four minutes later for Bolton as Luca Hoole nodded in the equaliser after Sam Finley’s cross cannoned off the woodwork and then Josh Coburn’s header crashed off the crossbar.
Wanderers boss Ian Evatt’s injury worries deepened after the break as Shoretire hobbled off but replacement Daniel Nlundulu eased those concerns as the Southampton loanee restored the visitors’ lead with 20 minutes remaining with a 20-yard strike.
Aaron Morley doubled Bolton’s advantage in the 78th minute with a long-range effort before Rovers substitute John Marquis slotted home from close range with five minutes remaining.
It set up a tense finale and the hosts came close to earning a point when Scott Sinclair’s stoppage-time strike hit the bar.
Follow the League One play-offs with Sky
You can follow all of the Sky Bet League One play-off matches live across Sky Sports.
Play-off final semi-final first legs
Friday May 12, 8pm – Peterborough vs Sheffield Wednesday, live on Sky Sports
Saturday May 13, 3pm – Bolton vs Barnsley, live on Sky Sports
Semi-final second legs
Thursday May 18, 8pm – Sheffield Wednesday vs Peterborough, live on Sky Sports
Friday May 19, 8pm – Barnsley vs Bolton, live on Sky Sports
Play-off final
Monday May 29, 3pm – Sheffield Wednesday/Peterborough vs Barnsley/Bolton, live on Sky Sports
Each match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Footballwhile there will be full digital coverage and free in-game clips on skysports.com.
