The match concluded with a 3-1 victory for ‘The Trotters’, who thoroughly deserved their triumph despite a late resurgence from ‘The Tykes’ at Oakwell. The second leg is scheduled for Tuesday (May 7) at the Toughsheet Stadium, kicking off at 8pm.
A superb passing sequence culminated in top scorer Dion Charles finding the net from close range, granting Bolton the lead midway through the first half. This moment of excellence stood out in a period characterized by numerous long balls played into the channels.
Capitalizing on defensive lapses early in the second half, Bolton seized control as Josh Sheehan capitalized on a poorly executed headed backpass from Barnsley captain Jordan Williams. Sheehan was fouled by goalkeeper Liam Roberts, resulting in an obvious penalty. Charles confidently converted the spot-kick, extending Bolton’s lead to 2-0 and setting the stage for their dominant play over the ensuing 15 minutes.
However, a lapse in concentration in defense saw former Peterborough United center-back Ricardo Santos stray from his position, allowing substitute Sam Cosgrove ample time and space to reduce the deficit with 15 minutes remaining.
Adam Phillips later tested Bolton’s goalkeeper Nathan Baxter with a well-directed header from a corner, but it was Bolton who had the final say. A curling corner kick from Randell found its way into the net five minutes into stoppage time.
Peterborough United will journey to Oxford United for the opening leg of their semi-final clash on Saturday, with kick-off set for 7:45 pm.
