WANDERERS (3-4-1-2).

 

THE TEAM... 10.

There is a strong argument that this was the most comprehensive cup final performance in Bolton Wanderers history. Defending was strong, midfield energetic and exact, and the Whites' attack was as sharp as a tack. Ian Evatt's gameplan was perfect in every way and stopped Plymouth dead in their tracks from the first couple of minutes. A proud, proud day.

 

The Bolton News:

 

JAMES TRAFFORD…8.

Made one outstanding save from Hardie in the first half that came at a crucial stage of the game. He had the confidence of a seasoned veteran.

GETHIN JONES…8.5.

The goal would have meant the world to him, and there are few more deserving players in the squad. Defended like a lion.

RICARDO SANTOS…8.5.

Oozed confidence from minute one and was the happiest guy in London when he lifted the trophy. Will have dreamed of that moment.

EOIN TOAL…8.

Took a nasty knock at the end that should have meant red for Cosgrove. Only let Wright turn him once in the first half, otherwise defending superbly in his first major final.

CONOR BRADLEY…9.

What this young man could be capable of doing in a few years is anyone’s guess. A bundle of infectious enthusiasm that Plymouth, quite simply, couldn’t handle.

AARON MORLEY…8.

Cool, calm and composed. His set piece delivery was excellent and he rarely wasted the ball when Wanderers needed to respect possession.

JOSH SHEEHAN…8.

After his outstanding show at Sheffield Wednesday deserved to keep his place, and is playing his best football in a Bolton shirt right now.

DECLAN JOHN…8.

Provided a reliable outlet on the left to complement Bradley’s fine work on the right. Might have grabbed a goal with slightly better fortune.

KYLE DEMPSEY…9.

Doubled up with Bradley on the right, which will have confused Plymouth’s game plan. They failed to adjust, and Dempsey had an absolute field day.

ELIAS KACHUNGA…9.

His link play was out of this world at times, as was his second-half finish for the third goal in front of the Bolton fans. Class act on the day.

DION CHARLES…9.

Plymouth’s defender will be having nightmares about him for weeks to come. Always on the shoulder, always hunting for more. Superb stuff.

Subs: Jerome 73 (for Jerome), Lee 73 (for Dempsey), Thomason 81 (for Sheehan), MJ Williams 81 (for Morley), Johnston 86 (for Toal).

Not used: Dixon, R Williams.

Plymouth Argyle (3--2-1): Burton; Wilson, Scarr, Gillesphey; Mumba, Houghton, Matete, Edwards; Mayor, Wright; Hardie.

Subs: Cosgrove 46 (for Matete), Butcher 46 (for Mayor), Azaz 53 (for Wright), Galloway 65 (for Gillesphey), Miller 72 (for Mumba).

Not used: Miller, Azaz, Lonwijk, Galloway, Parkes.

Referee: Ben Toner – 6/10. Shirked two big decisions. Awful challenges from Cosgrove and Mayor should have been red cards.

Attendance: 79,389.