Dougie Freedman's reaction to the 2-2 draw with Blackpool
Manager Dougie Freedman says he and his side can take pride in their performances over the last three months, as Wanderers narrowly missed out on the npower Championship play-offs on goal difference.
Chris Eagles and Craig Davies’ goals in first-half stoppage time saw Bolton claw their way back from two goals down level pegging, after Blackpool had taken an early lead in the season’s final game at the Reebok.
Though Leicester City’s late 3-2 win away at Nottingham Forest meant that by virtue of goal difference it was the Foxes who clinched the final play-off berth.
Speaking in his post-match press conference, Freedman said: “First of all I’d like to offer my heartfelt thanks to the supporters for their backing this season both home and away. Today, they were fantastic and my disappointment is for them.
“It was a difficult start for us, which in turn made the entire game difficult for the team.
“Our spirit got us back into the game and we made sure we gave it our all right until the end.
“At one moment it appeared that a draw might do it, though we set out to win the game. It was all about us today, unfortunately we’ve come up just a little bit short. I couldn’t have asked for nothing more from my players.
“We’ve been on a fantastic run of late and can take pride from what we have been doing both on and off the field in the last three months.
“Yes, we’re disappointed now but we are very optimistic moving forward. We’re integrating young players into our team and are building something special going forward.
“We’ve put lots of plans in place that will stand this club in good stead for the future.
“It’s no good thinking what might have been. We’ve got to look forward. I’m looking to make one or two changes that will help see us move up the league next season.
“Our targets have been identified and we’ve already been planning for next season.”