Bolton Wanderers manager Ian Evatt has called for a renewed focus from his side as they look to resolve their ongoing issues with defending set pieces ahead of their League One clash with Burton Albion.
With six goals conceded from set plays in the first nine games, Evatt knows that this area must improve if Wanderers are to solidify their position in the league.
Evatt Demands More Focus from Players
Set pieces have become a clear weakness for Bolton Wanderers this season. Only Bristol Rovers have conceded more from corners and free-kicks, and Evatt believes his team must sharpen up defensively in this area. Speaking about the team’s recent performance against Shrewsbury Town, he expressed frustration at how easily predictable set plays undid them.
“We have to be stronger, more diligent, more focused… Set plays, more than anything else, are about details and individual battles,” Evatt told The Bolton News. “We can’t afford to keep conceding sloppy goals. Generally, in open play, not too much of an issue but definitely set plays we need to focus more on that.”
“It is my job to try and give it some context, and if you look at the Shrewsbury game their open play XG was nominal, like 0.02,” Evatt explained. “Their goals came from two set plays.
Evatt’s side will need to be more alert and aggressive in these situations, especially against teams like Burton who may seek to exploit this vulnerability.
Set Pieces: Bolton’s Achilles Heel
Last season, Bolton had one of the best defensive records from set plays, conceding only 12 goals over the entire campaign. However, this season they have struggled to replicate that form, leaving them exposed to teams who look to capitalize on these situations. Evatt explained how the team’s defensive structure sometimes leaves gaps, particularly around the edge of the box, and how teams have been able to exploit this flaw.
With a crucial home fixture against Burton Albion looming, Bolton must address these issues if they want to secure all three points and climb the League One table.
Writer’s View
Bolton Wanderers’ vulnerability at set pieces is a concerning trend that needs immediate attention. Ian Evatt’s recognition of the issue is a positive step, but it’s crucial that the players implement the necessary changes on the pitch. Teams like Burton Albion will be eager to take advantage of these weaknesses, making it imperative that Bolton tighten up their defence if they want to maintain their promotion push.
