Manager's Barnsley reaction

Manager Dougie Freedman praised Wanderers’ togetherness both on and off the pitch after the 3-2 at Barnsley.

More than 2,000 fans made the journey across the Pennines to Yorkshire to see Bolton win their third game in a row as they extended their unbeaten run to six games in the Championship.

Speaking in his post-match press conference, Freedman said: “Barnsley have been on a good run of form recently and similarly to Peterborough they are playing with a real freedom.

“We analysed the areas their threats would come from and we worked hard to nullify them. I thought our first half performance was very good. We were solid, well organised and created a number of good chances from open play which resulted in us taking a two-goal advantage in at the break.

“Credit to Barnsley, who came out in the second half and changed their shape to get back into the game. They put us under great pressure but we showed our character and mental strength and Craig Dawson’s goal put us back in the lead.

“We stayed strong until the final whistle and we defended as a unit. I trust these players, they are a good group to work with and we responded well after conceding those two quick goals.

“Football is all about how you respond to set backs and we stayed strong towards the end. To maintain any interest as a season comes to a close you have to perform the way we have been doing over the last six games.

“After we scored our third we always looked dangerous and we continued to create opportunities. We played very well when we had the ball, and again, more importantly, when we didn’t.

“Today was a well-deserved three points, the all-round team ethic and togetherness secured our victory today.

“We had a travelling support of over 2,000 fans and they were magnificent from start to finish and we are delighted to be able to reward that level of support with a win.

“Week in week out at home and on our travels we are getting a superb backing. It is important and it really does give us an advantage.” 

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