Yesterday saw a comedown, and a probable indication that being forced to fast-track a squad comprised mainly of teenagers is going to lead to a lot of painful experiences.
For 35 minutes, the youngsters held their own again, but a barrage of goals either side of half time burst that particular balloon. Ollie Banks opened the scoring, while Morgan Ferrier, who should have been sent off for a studs up challenge on Harry Brockbank, scored either side of the interval. Connor Jennings would make it four, while sub Stefan Payne finished it off, Tranmere fans celebrating beating a youth team as though they won the World Cup.
The young players gave it their all, and were applauded by the vast majority of the 2000 Bolton fans in the Cowshed Stand after the final whistle. As hard as they tried, the physical Tranmere side was just too much for them. Our better days are going to come against more passing, technical sides, it seems.
Phil Parkinson, who has been brilliant these last few weeks, again nailed it with his post-match comments, echoing the thoughts of pretty much every Wanderers fan when he suggested that everyone is put in a room and not allowed out until the deal is done.
I’d also suggest depriving everyone in that room of natural light, food and water if it means getting this deal over the line. This club needs help. This manager needs help. These young players need help.
🗣"This is Bolton Wanderers, one of the founder members of the football league, and it is just unacceptable"#BWFC boss Phil Parkinson speaks about the current situation at the club after defeat to Tranmere pic.twitter.com/uG8Ij8xvQI
— BBC Sport Manchester (@BBCRMsport) August 17, 2019