Bolton entertain Blackburn tomorrow, in front of a crowd that will be full of beer, food and bonhomie, if everything goes to plan. The Premier Suite, under the East Stand, will be turned over to the fans before the game for what Scots refer to as a ‘wee refreshment`, only two years after this was first requested. Never let it be said that BWFC are unresponsive, it`s just that the reflexes are a bit slow. With the teams above them having difficult games, the Whites could be mid-table by Saturday evening. Not that anyone will care by then.
Vital Quotes:
‘They have made a decent start to the season, they have got a new manager who’s doing well and Archie’s there who’s going to want to come back here and get a good result.’
Gary Megson gives the low down on the opposition and Agent Knox, who has been installed as a mole at Ewood Park.
Bolton Team News:
Heidar Helguson has picked up his 86th ankle knock since joining Bolton, but no one cares anyway. He and fellow Icelander Gretar Steinsson have made unusual requests this week. Something about having their wages paid into a different bank account.
Player to watch: Ricardo Gardner
Has been in his best form for some time after reverting to a more advanced role.
Blackburn Team News:
Steven Reid is out for ever. Maybe he’s related to Heidar Helguson. Goalkeeper Paul Robinson may get a recall after sustaining a calf injury. (The problem was between the back of the knee and the ankle, he hasn’t been riding livestock around the living room in time-honoured Blackburn fashion.)
Fat Robbo isn’t the world’s finest. It’s debatable whether he’s even the best in Blackburn, so Bolton fans will welcome his return.
Player to watch: Carlos Villanueva
He’s a bit of a cult. You read that twice didn’t you? Attention will be focused on Roque Santa Cruz, who is quietly angling to follow former manager Mark Hughes up the road to Manchester City, but the loanee from Chile will need attention.
Match Facts & Stats
Blackburn had the bragging rights last season after doing the double. The game at the Reebok was notable for Kevin Nolan’s spectacular strike and Jason Roberts’s last minute winner.
Ref Watch:
Howard ‘The Duck’ Webb. A fine referee on his day. His days never seem to be at Bolton.
Match Prediction:
It’s eight years since Bolton triumphed in this fixture. Blackburn aren’t quite the side they were last season, so expect the Whites to end that barren run.
Next Fixtures:
Spurs (A)