From memory, Bolton made a very good start to the season, but a quick look at the table shows that results soon tailed off.
So much so that they’re actually sat two places below us in 19th.
Even better, they have the equal lowest goals scored, with 11 in 15 games, which hopefully means our defence might have a slightly easier time of things.
Which all in all means that coupled with home advantage, we really ought to win this one. On paper.
Actually, now I’ve just typed that, I’ve realised that the thought of losing this game is unthinkable.
But we won’t.
Bolton have the single worst form record in the league, with a solitary point in their last 5 games.
If that doesn’t spell a win for us, I don’t know what does.
Dean Smith has had another week with the players and while Bolton don’t seem to have the weakest of defences, if they struggle to score, hopefully we’ll be able to play a high press and give them things to worry about without them catching us on a typical counter, a la QPR.
I’m writing this on Thursday night, because I won’t have time to write it today, because I’m actually going to the game, taking a few of the family with me.
Yes, the Dean Smith effect and the thought of watching some decent football has actually enticed me to get off my backside and get down to watch.
I fully expect to witness a win and I’m going for 3-1, although I’ll be quite happy if the grandkids get to see simply a victory, combined with the Villa showing them how you should approach the game.
