Finish line is in sight as Bolton welcome Exeter

Bolton will go into Saturday’s clash with Exeter at the University of Bolton stadium knowing that three points will ensure a return to League One at the first time of asking.

A run of just two defeats in 20 league games has Ian Evatt’s side on the cusp of promotion and last weekend’s victory over fellow automatic hopefuls Morecambe was the perfect platform to set up this week’s opportunity.

Ben Jackson scored the winner on the coast against the ten men of Morecambe which saw Wanderers go four points clear of The Shrimps and bitter rivals Tranmere.

Evatt will be hoping to get the victory this weekend to ensure everything is done and dusted ahead of a potentially awkward final day trip to Crawley. With Morecambe and Tranmere both on the road this weekend, a draw could potentially be enough to seal the deal.

Captain Antoni Sarcevic will be on a high after being named in the League Two team of the season at the EFL awards on Thursday night. The midfielder made his return from injury in a 20 minute appearance last week and is in contention to start on what is Bolton’s most important day on the pitch in a number of years.

This promises to be an exciting game as Exeter come into this needing the three points almost as much as the hosts.

The Grecians sit two points outside the playoff places after a midweek come from behind victory over Grimsby that in turn relegated the visitors.

While other teams could theoretically get involved or dragged back into the picture, it looks like four teams battling for two places for the final playoff spots. Anything less than a win could see the season end on Saturday so Matt Taylor will be desperate to take it to the final day.

Exeter also boast a member of the league’s best 11 with Ryan Jay getting the nod upfront and he will be desperate to add to his 17 goal tally for the season.

The two sides played out a 1-1 draw at St. James’ Park back in January. It’s hard to envisage either sets of supporters being too happy if Saturday sees a repeat scoreline.

Saturday could mark another great chapter in Bolton’s proud history should they get back into the third tier. Exeter will be absolutely desperate to join them in League One. The penultimate game of the season has all of the ingredients to be the best one.

Follow us on Twitter @ProstInt