Old Bolts B 2 Rochdale St Clements 8

In a shocking demonstration of how not to defend the B team were outclassed, and out of the cup at the first attempt on Saturday against their fellow division rivals Rochdale St Clements. But things started well as the Bolts knocked the ball around with a swagger and determination, but when an out of character "Howler of a Header”  by the unchallenged Ian Thomasson flew into his own net, the day went downhill and before the Bolts could do anything the team found themselves 0-3 down.

When a penalty was awarded after Beardsworth was brought down in the box just before half time and confidently converted by Mark Brooks there was a glimmer of hope that the game could be resuscitated. But all hope was lost when the flat footed Bolts defence stood and watched as the goals rattles in throughout the second half...many of them from sloppy defending and crisp finishing.

Mark Brooks scored his second goal of the game during a period in the second half when the Bolts knocked the ball around well and Tim Entwistle was denied a well taken goal by some dodgy Rochdale linesman's flag but if there was hope that the Bolts were going to make progress in catching the lively Rochdale it was stifled by the generosity of the Bolts defence.

Having now conceded 11 goals in two games..the worst start to a season under the manager Ron"s reign, it seems that drastic action needs to be taken in tightening up the midfield and defence.