Two points dropped for Bolton Wanderers against Reading

Bolton Wanderers 1 - 1 Reading

Teenage substitute Andre Garcia struck a dramatic late equaliser as Reading rescued a 1-1 draw at Bolton, securing their first League One point of the season.

Author | Ajay

Stadiun | Toughsheet Community Stadium

The 17-year-old Garcia had barely been on the field for three minutes when his effort, helped by a heavy deflection off Wanderers captain George Johnston, found the net six minutes from time. It was Garcia’s first league goal and lifted the Royals off the foot of the table, moving them up to 21st while halting Steven Schumacher’s side from climbing into the top half.

For long spells it looked as though Bolton would claim a deserved victory. Mason Burstow appeared to have put them on course for a second home win of the campaign shortly after half-time. The on-loan Hull striker’s strike was diverted past his own goalkeeper by Derrick Williams.

The hosts pressed for a second, with Burstow and Joel Randall both going close from distance. Amario Cozier-Duberry, who struck the post in the first half, was denied by Joel Pereira with a fierce drive.

Reading created little for much of the contest, only registering a first effort on target in the 70th minute when right back Kelvin Abrefa forced a save from Teddy Sharman-Lowe. But the introduction of Garcia transformed their fortunes, the teenager’s opportunism ensuring a share of the points and sparking jubilation among the visiting supporters.

Reaction from the Bolton boss

Bolton manager Steven Schumacher told the media: "I'm disappointed with the end result. We felt we played some really good football again, got into some really good areas. I feel as though I say the same thing every week but we're not clinical enough with our chances. To have 21 shots on the goal and only hit the target four times, that's really disappointing."

What do the fans think?

Curtis, a Bolton fan, told us: "We got ourselves ahead and that felt like a turning point. A minute later there was another big chance and if that goes in the game is finished. But once the changes were made the whole thing seemed to lose its spark. That is football though and, typical of our luck, they nicked something from what felt like their only effort on target."

Another fan, Glenn, added: "I wouldn't say it was a smash and grab result for the away side. They showed intent by getting the ball in the box. It was a game of two deflected goals and they got their luck. It is definitely two points dropped."