In a tightly-fought game, it proved to be a test of both skill and resilience for Wanderers in a 1-0 victory over Atherton Laburnum Rovers.
Heading into the game on the back of a 6-0 opening weekend victory, Myles Smith's side were looking to make it back-to-back home wins against an Atherton side who were determined and resilient in their approach.
As the first half got underway at the Dreams2Reality Stadium, Wanderers looked to start the game in the same manner in which they finished the win over Workington Town - with their possession-based style on show from minute one.
However, the visitors proved to be a tough side to break down and chances were at a premium in an opening 45 where Wanderers had to be patient for their openings.
![eboni](https://cdn.bwfc.co.uk/sites/default/files/2024-08/pc3_1241.jpg)
Eboni Bradshaw, leading the line for the Whites, came closest in the opening stages when going through one-v-one after gliding past her defender but could only drag her left-footed effort past the post.
Jess Lightfoot, on dual-registration from Everton, was at the heart of all things good from an attacking point of view for Wanderers, and alongside Charlotte Tyers in the attacking midfield areas, were a constant threat for Atherton.
The decisive moment arrived just before half-time as the aforementioned Lightfoot was pulled back as she went around the Rovers 'keeper for a simple tap-in and the penalty was awarded.
Lily Barnes stepped up to take the spot-kick and made no mistake, calmly converting to give Bolton a 1-0 lead.
![wanderers](https://cdn.bwfc.co.uk/sites/default/files/2024-08/pc3_1567.jpg)
Wanderers' goalkeeper, Annabelle White, was forced into action at the end of the first half as a looping effort from 25 yards looked to be finding the top corner. However, White was superb in her reactions to claw the effort away and behind for a corner to ensure Wanderers went into the break with a lead.
The second half saw three changes from Myles Smith, and added fresh legs and additional dynamism to the home side's play as they started to create more opportunities.
The addition of Millie Smith and Eleanor Seals proved effective, as Bolton looked increasingly dangerous and controlled the game more effectively as the minutes ticked by.
A notable moment came as Seals, fresh onto the field, made a driving run through three Atherton defenders into the penalty area, with her close-range effort brilliantly saved by the Atherton goalkeeper, before Eboni Bradshaw fired narrowly wide as Wanderers went searching for a second.
![katie holt](https://cdn.bwfc.co.uk/sites/default/files/2024-08/pc1_5137.jpg)
White continued her stellar performance from the first half, making several crucial saves that kept Atherton at bay and ensured that the scoreline remained in Wanderers' favour.
Ultimately, Wanderers managed to hold onto their 1-0 lead, securing a hard-fought victory in this intense derby encounter.
The result demonstrated a different side of Wanderers' makeup, showing resilience in a game that didn't go all their own way.
It's positive signs for Myles Smith's side after two games, maintaining their winning streak whilst keeping another clean sheet as they travel to Fleetwood on the weekend for their first away game of the campaign.
Bolton Player of the Match: Lily Barnes
Next Match: Sunday 25th August Vs Fleetwood Town 2pm KO
Team: White, Neasham, E Smith, Holt (C), Baldwin, E Willams, Mitchell, Barnes, Lightfoot, Tyers, Bradshaw
Subs: Ebanks, M Smith (35), Shone (70), Seals (45), Ball (45)
Match report written by Katherine Byrne.