After dominating large parts of the second half, Portsmouth can count themselves unlucky to come away with nothing after losing 1-0 at Fratton Park to Bolton Wanderers. A stunning volley from skipper Kevin Nolan earned Bolton their first away win in 2006 after Linvoy Primus’ clearance fell straight to the Bolton skipper.

Portsmouth had the chances to go ahead in the game early on before Nolan’s stunning strike. Sol Campbell went close with a header and a snap shot from Sean Davis cracked against the post. Campbell, who was left unmarked in the penalty area, was unlucky as he saw his header narrowly miss the target from an excellent corner taken by left back Matthew Taylor. Portsmouth then created a half chance after a knock down from striker Benjani fell straight to Sean Davis, but his excellent effort cannoned off the post.

Bolton then took the lead against the run of play with the first effort of the game. Primus failed to clear a set piece, instead knocking the ball into the path of Nolan, who unleashed a rocket from 25 yards out which gave David James no chance. The goal silenced the crowd and it was the first time this season in The Premiership that David James has been beaten, and the goal was an excellent way to break that.

In the second half Bolton were content to sit back inviting Portsmouth to bring the game to them. Bolton were resolute in defence, restricting Portsmouth to long range efforts in order to attempt to break the deadlock and even the game out at 1-1. Not long after the 70 minute mark, Portsmouth came close from a zipping effort from right back Glen Johnson, which had Jaaskelainen beaten, only for the effort to just pass the post. After that, Portsmouth were restricted to scrappy half chances in the area, but Bolton pilled more than enough bodies in their own area to snuff out any minor threat that the Portsmouth players posed.

Overall Bolton Wanderers will be very happy with the outcome of the game and can count themselves fortunate.