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Nolan’s in the mood for dancing

Carl Marsden
28/ 7/2004

Oldham Athletic 0
Bolton Wanderers 1

A STRONG Bolton Wanderers side had goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen to thank after inflicting a first pre-season defeat on the Latics.

Brian Talbot's men began brightly at Boundary Park with Rodney Jack their creative spark from the right.

They went close when Chris Killen's header forced a superb save, but it was Bolton who took the lead on 14 minutes.

Jay Jay Okocha released Anthony Barness and his cross found Kevin Nolan whose scuffed shot flat-footed Les Pogliacomi.

Neat approach play then saw Michael Bridges play in Henrik Pedersen whose effort hit a post.

Just before the break, David Eyres enabled Jermaine Johnson to embarrass Bruno N'Gotty, who was grateful that Jasskelainen tipped the resultant shot over.

The second half was all Oldham and livewire Bolton reject Johnson clearly had a point to prove.

The Jamaican hit the side-netting four minutes after the restart and had an 18-yard shot deflected inches wide.

Jaaskelainen then denied him again after he outpaced Jason Talbot.

Cutting in from the right on 83 minutes, Johnson unleashed a shot that hammered the outside of the post.

The feeling it was not Latics' night was confirmed seconds later when Danny Boshell's 30-yarder brought another flying save from the keeper.

OLDHAM: Pogliacomi, Holden, Griffin, Haining, Arber (Beharall 57 mins), Jack (Cooksey 76 mins), Bonner, Eyre (Appleby 18 mins), Johnson, Killen (Vernon 65 mins), Eyres (Boshell 46 mins). Subs (not used): David Forde, Tierney, Lever, Barlow, Taylor, Danny Forde, Winn, Lomax.

Attendance: 3,332.