BOLTON travelled to Ashton Under Lyne for a rearranged league game and failed to make any use of their match in hand on opposition clubs losing 9-6.

After last week's morale boosting win at Bury, Bolton went searching for their first back to back wins of the season.

In the now customary muddy conditions, running rugby was at a premium as both teams struggled to play in the damp environment. Ashton playing with the strong wind always looked the most dangerous in the first half, but great defence by Bolton, in particular from Hunter who somehow at one stage managed to get under the ball as Ashton eventually breached the line, restricted the home side to two penalties.

Ince reduced the margin with a penalty after Bolton battled valiantly upfield, and the home side were off side at a ruck. A 6-3 half time lead to Ashton was little reward for their efforts, but praise must be given to the outstanding defence of the visitors who tackled everything in an opposition shirt for 40 minutes.

At half time the team decided their tactics with the coaching staff and it did not need Einstein to work out that the easiest and most effective tactic to use, was the kicking skills of the half backs who had a considerable wind blowing in their favour.

Bolton, on taking the field, then proceeded to forget everything that had been spoken about and engaged on a midfield battle with the opposition. Time and time again the forwards won ball at line out or scrimmage and time and time again the backs ran at the organised home defence to no avail.

The game was screaming for somebody to stamp their authority on it, unfortunately Bolton had no-one capable or willing to take on the task.

Both teams added one more penalty apiece in the second half as the game disappeared into the dark. Bolton now remain in the bottom section of the league instead of the mid table security the four league points recently thrown away would have given them.

The only pleasing part of the day was the ability of the Bolton pack to win set pieces at ease, and the debut of David Paten who had a solid game in the front row.

Next week sees fellow relegation contenders Broughton visit Avenue Street, 2.15 kick off.