Eoin Doyle struck his 16th goal of the season to help Bolton Wanderers defeat fellow promotion favourites Forest Green Rovers on their own patch at the weekend – and the Irishman believes the victory puts the club right in contention for automatic promotion.
In a match that generated few chances for either side, it was the Irishman’s class and clinical ability that proved to be decisive as Wanderers picked up their 11th win in an unbeaten spell of 13 matches to leapfrog their promotion rivals.
Doyle, who is the stand-in captain during Antoni Sarcevic’s absence through injury, led by example as he netted the winner towards the end of the first-half with a stunning volley following a pinpoint cross from the right-hand side by Nathan Delfouneso.
He said: “It’s a massive win and it puts us right in contention now with nine games to go.
“It was just that big of magic from Nathan going down the right and putting in a perfect ball. I’m just glad it went in.
“It wasn’t the best spectacle to be watching from the stands or on TV but we dug in, managed to hold on to it and it was a massive three points.
“We are on a good roll and we enjoyed it.
“We enjoyed it because we have got a good rhythm out there and we know our jobs.
“We work hard during the week and it’s paying off."
Wanderers’ leading marksman also paid tribute to Ian Evatt for his man-management skills.
He added: “It’s great for me. I am the kind of striker who isn’t going to score out of nothing, I need delivery and service into the box and it’s heaven for me being able to play in this type of team. It suits my game.
“There was a slight change in the midfield early on and then it reverted back because I think they changed their system. I think we are the best team in the league on our day and we are turning up week in, week out at the moment. It’s enjoyable to play in.
“The gaffer has obviously got his man-management spot on. Everyone loves playing for him.”