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Bolton Wanderers: Long Journey Home

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Good morning everyone. This has got to be one of the first away games that I have ever thought, ‘I am really happy I am not at the game today`. Yes, I have travelled up and down the country on very slow coaches supporting the Whites, but twelve hours of nothing for a 2 hour stop over sounds just awful. You can`t even get drunk on those coaches either. Fair play to the ones that have made the journey.

It`s game five for Douglas. It better be win two. I hope that in the past few weeks, Freedman has got it into these players` heads that if we are to finish anywhere near the top six, we need to start winning games when they are there for the taking.

Vital Quotes:

One of the best things about Dougie Freedman is his honesty when talking to the press. He`s optimistic like Coyle, but unlike his predecessor, you feel like there is something tangible to take from what he says. Instead of trying to get through a press conference by using buzzwords and filler, there is a lot of good content in his words, and I think this will help maintain the good relationship he has started with the fans.

Talking about our recent ‘run`, Dougie said “I understand that we have gone four games undefeated, and obviously I would like to have more points if I am very honest, but it is something to build on. I think that we can keep on building and get into the top half – this division is very close and six points could be the difference come then end of the season. Next month is important as we can get some points back and get into the top half”

Brighton and Hove Albion Team News:

Gus Poyet`s men should have a largely fit squad to choose from this afternoon, with the exception of former England International defender (who can`t defend) Wayne Bridge. He`s too busy following his missus` every movements/being injured and having to see a specialist. Whilst Brighton have some very good attacking players, one man returning could be the difference today.

Player to watch: Tomasz Kuszczak

The former United keeper has finally found a club where he can get regular gametime, but I imagine he knew that this wouldn`t be the case when he joined the Scum. However, whenever I have seen him play, he has looked a very good keeper, who now has bags of top-level experience. I imagine that is where he wants to be, the top, and where I think he deserves to be. Even if we don`t shoot the ball straight at him, we will still find it hard to get past him today.

Bolton Wanderers Team News:

The usual suspects are still out, and Warnock faces a late fitness test. Gregg Wylde is unavailable after being loaned to Bury; JUST HOW WILL WE SURVIVE????

Player to watch: Jay Spearing

If we are going to win away from home, we need to get hold of the ball as much as possible. We need to see every ounce of combativeness from our Scouse bulldog today. If Jay can nullify their creativity in the middle of the park, and get it to our attacking players, then that is half the battle.

Match Facts & Stats

We haven`t beaten Brighton in 35 years!!!! To be fair, we haven`t played them in 19. Our record against them: 4W 4D 4L.

Match Prediction:

The unbeaten run will end today. 2-0 Brighton. Sorry, that`s just what I think.

Next Fixtures:

We play those chicken farmers on Wednesday night in Royston Vasey. We need to win that one. Must do. COYWM!!!

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