Bolton Wanderers' under-18 side fell to a 2-1 defeat against Swansea City in the Professional Development League, a result that leaves them still searching for their first league win of the season. Alfie Baxter scored for the young Whites, but goals from Kaleab Meron and Bobby Lewis secured the points for the visitors, who maintained their unbeaten start and top spot in the south group.
Baxter goal not enough
The hosts opened the scoring through a well-worked move. Defender Louis Evans started the attack with a pass to Zak Doyle, who played the ball down the line to Sonny Coyne. Coyne's cut-back found Alfie Baxter, who finished to give Bolton the lead. Baxter nearly doubled his tally in the 70th minute, but his effort was blocked by Swansea's Rio Hassan.
Swansea responded with two goals to turn the game around. The defeat was compounded in the closing moments when Louis Evans received a second yellow card, reducing Bolton to ten men for the final stages. Captain Sam Hopkinson had a late chance saved by Swansea goalkeeper Thomas Wright, but the equaliser would not come.
Bottom of the table
The loss means Bolton Wanderers U18s remain bottom of the northern section after three games. The first-team context is also challenging, with the senior side sitting 20th in the Championship on seven points from seven games. Their recent form reads one win and four defeats from the last five outings.
James Shillinglaw started in goal for the young Whites, with Hopkinson leading the side from midfield. Substitutes included goalkeeper Davidson and outfield players Desilva-Zuill, Marshall, Ogboru, Littler, Quirk, and Fakhy.
Looking ahead
Attention for the academy now turns to the Professional Development League Cup, where an under-17 side will face Oldham Athletic on Tuesday. The full roster for that match, including any returns from injury, is listed on the squad page.
