Bolton Wanderers play host to Bristol Rovers on Friday evening looking for the victory which will ensure that the home side remain in the League One playoff places.

At a time when the Trotters are in fifth spot in the standings, Bristol Rovers are in 15th position, 10 points clear of the relegation zone.

Match preview

In their first season back in League One, Bristol Rovers have exceeded expectations, losing just one third-tier game since the start of October and sitting safety in mid-table.

However, despite an excellent run in the league and progressing through to the last 16 of the EFL Trophy, Joey Barton cut a frustrated figure as Rovers succumbed to National League side Boreham Wood in the FA Cup last week.

Shipping twice in the opening half hour left his team on the back foot, and they were unable to break down the resolute non-league outfit in one of the shocks of the second round.

Nevertheless, Barton will feel confident about his side immediately bouncing back with a trip to one of the biggest clubs in the division the ideal platform to rise to the occasion yet again.

Despite 10 league positions separating the clubs, Bristol Rovers are just seven points adrift of their hosts, a win having the potential to act as the catalyst for a bid for the playoffs.

From Bolton's perspective, an early exit from the FA Cup meant that they closed November with a weekend off, and Ian Evatt may have welcomed the chance to experience a break.

Although the Trotters only played four matches in the penultimate month of the year, a refresh could benefit them over the upcoming period as they bid to challenge for a return to the Championship.

Just three wins have come from their last eight fixtures, although four points from away showdowns with Cambridge United and Fleetwood Town are regarded as a positive.

While Bolton's home form has generally been strong this campaign, the North West outfit went down 3-1 to Oxford United on their last outing on familiar territory.

Team News

Barring any injury issues, Evatt is unlikely to contemplate many alterations to his Bolton XI after the extended break from action.

Jon Dadi Bodvarsson is pushing for a recall in the final third, while Kyle Dempsey is also available after serving a one-match suspension.

Despite the defeat to Boreham Wood, Barton may not make sweeping changes to his side given their previous good form.

Ryan Loft could drop out in the final third, allowing for either Jordan Rossiter or Luke McCormack to return in midfield and Aaron Collins to partner Josh Coburn in attack.

This game is likely to come too soon for Harry Anderson and Paul Coutts after injury.

Bolton Wanderers possible starting lineup:
Trafford; Jones, Johnston, Santos; Bradley, Thomason, Morley, Beck; Afolayan; Charles, Kachunga

Bristol Rovers possible starting lineup:
Belshaw; Thomas, Gibson, Connolly; Sinclair, Whelan, Rossiter, Evans, Gordon; Collins, Coburn

We say: Bolton Wanderers 1-1 Bristol Rovers

Despite their contrasting league positions, Bristol Rovers have matched Bolton for points over the last three contests. With that in mind, we are backing the visitors to earn a share of the spoils, bouncing back from the disappointment of their FA Cup exit.

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