BOLTON returned from Cumbria feeling they had missed an opportunity to build on their confident start to the season.

Leading 14-10 late on, they were punished for their lack of a killer instinct when the Barrow side snatched victory with two late penalties.

Coach Guy Lovgreen, spurred on by recent successes, picked arguably his strongest side of the season and, although Hawcoat Park defended stubbornly, it was the Bolton forwards who dominated with some pulverising runs and well-executed moves that brought the backs into play on a terrific playing surface.

Bolton led at half time through a Brogan try and a Lovgreen penalty and, although the Cumbrians fought back in the second half, the Cherry and Whites looked in control when Lovgreen landed two more penalties. But they missed chances to secure victory before the late twist in the tale.

Bolton 2nds travelled to Fleetwood brimming with confidence after a good start to the season but the Fylde side, who are top of the table, ran out convincing 59-19 winners.

The scoreline, however, masked the competitive nature of the game and Bolton can draw encouragement from racking up 19 points against a defence which had conceded only 17 in all their previous games this season.

Bolton 3rds showed a lot of spirit before bowing 32-12 to superior visitors Kirkby Lonsdale.

Tries from JP Hardman and Dave Evans were just rewards for Bolton’s resolve against a strong 15 while Scott Knibb, son of Bolton stalwart Steve Knibb, gave a performance in his first senior game to suggest he is one to watch for the future.

Bolton 4ths continued their impressive start to the season with a 35–0 home win against Burnley.

The experience in the Bolton side proved too much for the under-strength visitors and they played some good rugby on the way to a comfortable victory.