Wanderers were held to a 1-1 draw against Barnsley at the UniBol during the play-off semi-final first leg.

The visitors went in front through Nicky Cadden’s low drive but the Whites hit back just four minutes later through Dion Charles, who bundled home from close range.

Ian Evatt’s men head to Oakwell on Friday night in the second leg for a chance to return to Wembley.

Nervy affair

The stakes are high in the play-offs and the Bolton boss felt his side “played with shackles” during the opening 45 minutes.

After the game, both managers suggested that Peterborough’s dominant 4-0 win against Sheffield Wednesday on Friday night had been on the players’ minds, with neither side wanting to lose the tie at this stage.

But Wanderers are at their best when they play with freedom, and being away from home might help them to do so in the second leg.

There were some positive signs during the final half-hour, with Evatt’s men having plenty of joy down the wings.

Southampton loanee Dan Nlundulu also had a decent impact off the bench and could have got on the scoresheet had it not been for a heroic block by Mads Andersen.

Crucial saves

James Trafford made a couple of vital stops on what looks set to be his final game at the UniBol, ensuring Wanderers head to Oakwell on level terms.

The youngster demonstrated his excellent decision-making, rushing off his line to deny Slobodan Tedic and Bobby Thomas either side of half time.

He has been a big player for the Whites this season and received plenty of praise from the pundits after the game.

Trafford looks destined for big things and it is easy to see why he has become such a popular figure among Bolton supporters.

Moment of quality

Randell Williams had a tough start to his time at Wanderers, having to play catch up due to his lack of playing time in the first half of the campaign.

But the wing-back has shown glimpses of what he is capable of in the final third and played a key role in the equaliser, beating his man and delivering a dangerous cross.

He also impressed during the 3-2 win at Bristol Rovers on the final day despite playing on the right of defence after Gethin Jones was forced off with an injury.

Many supporters expected Declan John to get the nod against the Tykes but Evatt’s decision ultimately paid off.

All to play for

Some fans may be disappointed that Wanderers failed to make the most of their home advantage and head to Oakwell with a lead.

But Evatt remains upbeat about his side’s chances in the second leg and it could arguably suit his side to a tee.

Barnsley were well-organised and tough to break down at the UniBol, but next time the onus will be on Michael Duff’s side to dictate the play in front of a home crowd.

The Whites have proven on plenty of occasions this season how dangerous they can be when sides attack them and space opens up in the final third.