Both sides came into the game full of confidence with Everton having an excellent season under the guidance of former Preston North End manager David Moyes and Bolton fresh from their dramatic 4-3 victory over Newcastle United two days earlier.

However, Goodison Park is a very tough place for away sides to visit these days and Wanderers manager Sam Allardyce will have been fully aware of the threat that the Toffees pose on their own patch with teenage striking sensation Wayne Rooney a particular threat to Bolton’s ageing back line.

It was Rooney who came closest to winning the game for the home side, a second half shot from the youngster crashing against Jussi Jaaskelainen’s crossbar. Jay Jay Okocha suffered a similar fate late on when a twenty five yard strike from the Nigerian World Cup star defeated England goalkeeper Richard Wright all hands down but Okocha’s shot smashed against the bar, much to the dismay of the travelling Bolton supporters.

There weren’t too many chances in the game for Bolton but Everton posed a threat throughout although they couldn’t find a way past Jaaskelainen. However, the Finnish goalkeeper looking considerably uncomfortable on occasions along with Spanish defender Ivan Campo, who returned to the side in the place of the injured Mike Whitlow.

All in all, a draw was a fair result. Both sides will be pleased to collect the point as the completed the second third of the gruelling Festive schedule and look to prepare for their next games on New Years Day, this coming Wednesday.

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