Team analysis: Bolton
Bolton Wanderers managed to end their losing streak with a win over Huddersfield on Saturday, putting them back in contention for a place in the play-offs. This victory is not only significant for the points gained, but also for the fact that it came at a crucial time after three games without a win in League One, which directly affected the sacking of Ian Evatt.
Although they are close to the play-off zone, Bolton faces serious problems in the continuity of form, especially at home. In the last five games at Toughsheet Community Stadium, they have won just four points, which is a significant departure from the previous period when they suffered only three defeats in 25 matches. Also, one of the key problems is the defense – they have conceded 21 goals at home, which ranks them among the worst domestic defensive teams in League 1.
In addition, the absence of Jay Matete due to suspension is a further obstacle, while the statuses of key defenders Eoin Toal and Ricardo Santos remain uncertain. If they are not ready for this duel, Bolton will have problems in defense against a Northampton line-up that likes to play patiently and wait for the opponent’s mistakes.
However, the team’s bright spot is Aaron Collins, who scored his seventh goal of the season to win against Huddersfield. He will once again be a key player in attack, alongside Adeboye, while in midfield Morley and Sheehan will take control of the game.
Team Analysis: Northampton
Under the leadership of former Bolton player Kevin Nolan, Northampton Town have become a team that relies on defensive discipline and a closed approach to games. Their last game, a 0-0 draw against Wycombe, showed how much Nolan insists on compactness and combativeness in his squad. Although they were in a subordinate position in that match, they managed to limit the hosts to only four shots on goal, which is a clear sign of tactical discipline.
They are currently in 20th place, but they are six points ahead of the danger zone, which gives them a certain amount of comfort. However, the offensive problems are obvious – only 24 goals scored in the season, which makes them the most ineffective team in Ligue 1. In the last 360 minutes of football, they scored only two goals, which clearly shows how modest they are in the attacking segment.
Northampton continue to struggle with injuries to key players, particularly in defence, with Manchester City’s on-loan defender Luke Mbete still sidelined with a hamstring problem, while Patrick Brough and Ali Koiki are out for the same reason. Their absence could reflect on the stability of the back line, although they managed to keep a clean sheet in the last match.
Bolton’s biggest threat will be Tariq Foss, who could return to the starting line-up in place of Sam Hoskins. Fosu is one of the few Northampton players who can bring dominance in attack with individual quality, while Terry Taylor, new signing from Charlton, will play an important role in midfield.
Betting Tips:
Proposal 1:
Bolton to win – Although they are not convincing at home, Bolton is a better team and has more offensive potential. Northampton are struggling in attack and scoring goals is difficult.
Quota 1.45
Mozart
Proposal 2:
Under 2.5 goals – Northampton’s style of play suggests this will be a tight and tactically closed match. The last four away games ended with two or fewer goals.
Quota: 2.08
Mozart
Proposal 3:
Bolton win & 0-3 goals – This tip gives slightly better odds on a clean sweep for the home side, with the expectation that we won’t see many goals scored.
Quota: 2.20
Mozart
