Bolton Wanderers manager Ian Evatt faces a significant challenge to address ahead of the team’s Wembley clash with Oxford

At halftime during the second leg at the Toughsheet Community Stadium, Wanderers held a three-goal lead and appeared to be smoothly sailing towards North London. However, as is often the case, things became challenging in the second half, but they ultimately managed to secure victory, albeit narrowly.

The primary concern now, as they prepare for their second consecutive trip down south after winning the EFL Trophy last year, is the risk of complacency, which players and even the manager have openly acknowledged or hinted at this season.

With just one game remaining to reach the second tier for the first time since 2019, it’s evident that addressing complacency is crucial ahead of the playoff final against Oxford United, following the Yellows’ 2-1 aggregate victory over Peterborough United in the other semi-final.

Bolton seems to require an added advantage during matches.

In recent weeks, Bolton Wanderers have shown a noticeable improvement in focus. When they are fully committed, they have demonstrated the ability to dominate opponents, albeit sometimes only for portions of games, which raises concerns about complacency.

For instance, in a crucial match where only a Bolton victory, coupled with a Derby County loss and a significant goal difference swing, could secure automatic promotion, Wanderers started strongly. They quickly established a 2-0 lead within the first eight minutes, executing precisely what was needed. However, upon learning that Derby had taken the lead in their match, effectively ending Bolton’s promotion hopes, the team’s morale was deflated. Despite initially falling behind 3-2, they managed to salvage a draw. This dependence on external results for motivation rather than intrinsic self-belief is worrying.

Similarly, in the playoff semi-final against Barnsley, Bolton performed exceptionally well for the majority of the game, leading comfortably by two goals for 70 minutes. Although Barnsley pulled one back, Wanderers secured a crucial third goal in stoppage time. However, in the return leg, despite holding a 3-1 aggregate lead, they found themselves trailing just before halftime. Yet, they responded decisively, turning the game around to lead 5-2 overall.

Their three-goal advantage seemed to lead to a lapse in concentration, resulting in casual possession play that they might not have risked in a closer contest. While they ultimately secured a 5-4 aggregate victory, these instances highlight their vulnerability when feeling comfortable.

Maintaining focus is crucial for Bolton.

Before the final day of the season, Bolton defender Josh Dacres-Cogley suggested that, based on the caliber of their players and their top performances, Bolton should have already secured promotion. However, he acknowledged that “complacency” may have been a factor.

At Wembley Stadium, Wanderers won’t have any excuses. They can’t depend on others faltering, can’t count on their performance in the playoff semi-finals, and can’t afford to ease off in the second leg. They must maintain their focus for the entire match.

Last season, in a Wembley final, Bolton convincingly defeated eventual League One champions Plymouth Argyle 4-0 to claim the EFL Trophy. This history suggests that a one-off game might suit Bolton and their determined mindset. The key will be avoiding any complacency as they face a team they defeated 5-0 in March and finished ten points ahead of in the regular season.

If Bolton can stay focused for another 90-minute period in the 2023/24 season, they will once again celebrate Championship football.