Bolton Match Report: Poor start, worse stewarding, superb finish.

Fantastic trip on the road again, got to our pub for 11.30am, made the journey in good time and had another good welcome at a pub we have used for the 3rd time in 12 months.

We got to the ground for around 14.15 and made our way in and to our seats, it was bitterly cold up here today but City had a decent following to cheer them on. Within minutes it became apparent that Bolton FC and in particular their stewards were behaving in the exactly the same manner as when we visited the Reebok last season.

The bars and food kiosks were shut shortly after the kick off and we were informed that they would remain closed for the remainder of the game because of safety issues, even though there had been no issues before kick off or up to the point of closing the bars and kiosks.

Fans were getting wound up not because of the alcohol not being served but more so because there was no hot drinks or food being served, it was the coldest away game of the season and there was no reason for Bolton to take the course of action they did.

Back in the ground and some of the stewards started behaving in the same manner as last season, overzealous and acting like they were the law. As a result this brought about flashes of confrontations between the stewards and fans and then police had to intervene.

On the pitch the first half offered very little entertainment and City struggled to get any rhythm going and we looked a very ordinary side against a team a division lower than us.

Eikrem’s passing didn’t look anywhere near the accuracy and calmness that we have seen of him in his substitution appearances so far. Cornelius looked well off the pace and I am trying to stay very much on the fence with the kid but today I really felt was particularly poor.

The second half was very different to the first because of Ole’s substitutions; each of them had a positive impact on the game.

Noone came on and started running at Bolton and delivering quality ball in the box, he was dangerous and effective for the whole of the half.

Campbell got the only goal of the game and he gave the Bolton defence the run-around with his movement and work rate, his celebration for the winner was absolute class. He scored from an acute angle and ran behind the goal and pulled his shorts up to mimic Vincent Tan’s high waisted trousers, he certainly got the crowd cheering with that celebration.

Then the standout player of the game entered the fray, Matrs Moller Daehli.

What a player, what a cameo appearance! Wow.

We have read many reports about the youngster but seeing him perform like he did was special, the kid is a talent beyond his years. I tend to hold judgement on new players until a few games but everyone who was there this afternoon will be talking about Daehli on their journey home this evening.

The Norwegian got tricks, skill and flair and an eye for the game that belittles his tender years, on this appearance it really looks like Cardiff City have bagged themselves a star and a top player.

David Marshall deserves praise yet again for making top quality saves.

But I cannot finish without mentioning Ole Gunnar Solksjaer and his substitutions, they were the difference that won us the match and they made the last 15 minutes entertaining to watch.