Mason Burstow believes Bolton Wanderers can raise their levels when they travel to Burton Albion this weekend, describing the fixture as a “must win”.
The news comes after the Trotters 2-1 victory against Peterborough United drew mixed reviews despite delivering 3 points. That result moved Wanderers within 3 points of the League One play-off places.
Burstow Believes Standards Should Be Higher
Burstow said the group expects higher standards and wants to convert results into a sustained run.
“I think as a team we probably still expect more from ourselves. Getting that win and now having the opportunity to start another streak is a good feeling but we have to carry it through.”
“There are a few results where we wish we could have got a little more out of the game, a few things haven’t quite happened. But as a whole it’s about staying positive and making sure we get the reward for our performances.”
“I don’t think that (the Peterborough win) was our best performance but you come away with 3 points and you’d take that. It’s probably something we need to do more this season.”
“We also know we are capable of playing better, and we will.”
Burton have taken just 4 points at home this season, which is the joint-worst record in the division, while Bolton’s away form shows 3 points from a possible 15. Burstow, whose tally stands at 7 goals this season, said back-to-back wins are the target at the Pirelli Stadium.
“It’s a game that as a team we’ve got to win. It’s not a case of want to, it is a case of have to win. For the goals we have in mind this season, to get promoted, it’s the type of game we have to go and get 3 points.”
“I’ll definitely be going into the game looking to get more goals but we want the result. This is a competitive league and we need to keep chipping away, putting 3 points on to 3 points, and then the table looks better.”
Burstow also offered encouragement to fellow forward Sam Dalby as competition for places continues.
“We all get on, and we work really hard on our game. Sam came on (against Peterborough) and really deserves some credit because he put a great shift in.
“He didn’t score but what he offered energy-wise and physically, he’s a really good player and we need him.”
Writer’s View
Burstow’s framing of Burton as a “have to win” feels right for Bolton’s ambitions. Home form is delivering, but 3 points from 15 away is the gap they must close. Burton’s 4 home points suggest opportunity if Wanderers impose early tempo and cut out flat periods noted after Peterborough.
Burstow’s 7-goal return underlines his form, yet the nod to Dalby hints at useful depth for late-game control. If Bolton pair cleaner possession with that penalty-box edge, this is the kind of away day that can kick-start momentum.
