Manager says his side more than merited point against Wigan
Dougie Freedman says he was proud of his players’ efforts following the 1-1 draw with Wigan at the Reebok.
In a pulsating Lancashire derby, Wanderers controlled the game for large parts but were eventually denied three points by a late rally from Wigan.
Lukas Jutkiewicz put Bolton a goal to the good, only for substitute Nick Powell to level late on.
Wigan did have the chance to win the game in stoppage time, only for Adam Bogdan to keep out Jordi Gomez’s spot kick.
“I feel very proud of the players today. For 80 minutes we were by far the better side,” Freedman said after the game.
“We created numerous opportunities, played on the front-foot and got stuck in right from the off. We never gave Wigan a minute’s peace.
“Wigan are a very good side and have been on a very good run. It was a fantastic effort from our group of players.
“When you’re just a goal up, you’re always going to be vulnerable. Uwe Rosler made some changes and brought on some quality players in the likes of Nick Powell, who eventually got them back in the game.
“I don’t like criticising referees, and I thought ours had a good game today, but there’s one questionable decision when Liam Trotter is fouled when through on goal. It was disappointing, because I felt that gave Wigan a bit of hope to hang in there.
“We’ve had some challenging times this season, but we’ve once again shown that we have the character to bounce back and keep on fighting right until the end.
“We’ve come up against a very good team in Wigan and were far the better side on the balance of play.
“People say that we haven’t got anything to play between now and the end of the season, but that is absolutely not the case.
“I want players who are proud to wear the Bolton Wanderers jersey and will give 100 percent in every game - you’ve seen that today.”