Though the win at the Abbey Stadium may have been more difficult in light of the washout two weeks prior, it also gave the Whites the best mental preparation for their Lancastrian double against Wigan Athletic and Blackpool.
Moreover, Ricardo Santos’s injury recovery and George Thomason’s return from suspension in time for Saturday’s match at Bloomfield Road could not come at a better moment.
The Bolton manager grinned, saying, “George is back, Rico will be back, Randell Williams and Dion Charles are not far away, and we’ll know more about Nathan Baxter next week as well.
With major players returning at a crucial point in the season, we have a little boost right now. If we can maintain the level of resiliency and character we have displayed, we should be fine.
Tuesday night, Wanderers literally handled everything Cambridge threw at them, repelling numerous aerial bombardments.
“Over the course of our four years here, we have always found it difficult, but again, it is a necessary part of that evolution and development to win this kind of game now,” Evatt said in reflection.
I am really happy with what the players offered me in a really stressful environment—huge amounts of resilience and character. Cambridge has also progressed, and they have some strong players.
Caleb Taylor, a teenage defender on loan from West Brom, was having his greatest game yet when he suffered an ankle injury, which was one of the night’s minor setbacks.
As he grows stronger and more fit, we are seeing more of him, and he is improving,” Evatt remarked.
It is unfortunate for him, but maybe in not too far off future, we will see him again. Sometimes terrible things happen when you are almost at your peak.
He may not have played to his full potential yet, but trust me when I say that he will develop into a very talented player.
Swansea’s Nat Ogbeta, another January window loanee, also had a solid second half performance that is encouraging for the future.
The manager remarked, “He got into some really good areas in the first half and, for once, his crossing let him down.” That is typically one of his greatest advantages. It can happen, but in those situations you have to demonstrate your mental toughness and fortitude to try again, which he did admirably in the second half.
Wanderers are also awaiting details regarding Evatt’s own disciplinary process following his red card on February 10 against Northampton Town.
The club is awaiting a hearing after presenting their case against referee Jeremy Simpson’s ruling.
“As of yet, no news,” Evatt informed us. “We have replied, and I anticipate that the Football Association will contact us with a schedule for a private hearing.
