David Lee’s young whites clinch a victory over Barnsley counterparts.
Alex Samizadeh netted his third goal in two games as Bolton Wanderers Under-23s overcame Barnsley 1-0 on Monday evening.
It was the Whites who saw the first chances of the game. Firstly, Max Clayton put wide after Donohue picked out the forward with an enticing cross before Conor Wilkinson forced Townsend into a close-range reactionary save.
Continuing his return from injury, Mark Howard produced his first save of the evening denying Jared Bird’s long range effort, minutes later the experienced keeper calmly saved from Kayden Jackson’s curling strike.
Up the other end of the field meanwhile, Jeff King was providing a creative spark for Wanderers. He found Clayton, however, his shot was once again saved by Townsend.
Conor Wilkinson and Alex Samizadeh were combining well in the final third, however, such was the story of the first half, Samizadeh’s goal-bound effort was saved by Townsend after the striker was played in on goal by his strike partner.
With the half drawing to a close, Howard produced a stunning save to keep the scores level. With Dembele through on goal, the keeper stood tall palming the forward’s shot over the crossbar.
SECOND HALF
With the second-half very much a midfield battle, it took a jinxing solo run from Wilkinson to spark some life into the half. Picking the ball up on the left-wing, Wilkinson evaded four defenders before he was fouled inside the area giving the referee no choice but to award a penalty.
Clayton took on the duties, however, his spot kick was sent over the crossbar.
Bolton eventually found a way past Townsend on the 65th minute. King’s corner caused panic inside the area and following a goalmouth scramble, Samizadeh prodded home to give Wanderers the lead.
The Reds continued to threaten the Bolton goal with efforts from Hedges and Jackson being met equally by Howard.
FULL TIME
Bolton: Howard, Wabara, Matthews, Dervite, Brockbank, Perry, Donohue, King, Wilkinson, Samizadeh, Clayton.
Subs: Jaaskelainen, Spooner, Lavelle, Lonsdale, Earing.