Just like the good old days - Gudni

"It was like the old days at Burnden Park," the captain said in a personal appreciation of the Reebok crowd's vocal support that played a major part in Saturday's 1-1 draw with Southampton.

"What an atmosphere! I'm sorry we weren't able to deliver the first goal that would probably have won us the game but the fans really did give us a lift in that second half. The noise was fantastic and that level of support really does make a difference.

"I want to thank them for the part they played in helping us get that point."

Wanderers looked like going down to a late goal for the third time running when England full-back Wayne Bridge put Southampton in front against the run of play eight minutes from time. But Youri Djorkaeff equalised with just seconds remaining to deny the Saints a carbon copy of last season's smash and grab Reebok raid.

World Cup winner Djorkaeff, who dedicated his first goal of the season to the Bolton fans in the crowd of 22,692, was overwhelmed by the atmosphere in the second half as Wanderers increased the tempo.

"For 45 minutes it was crazy out there," the Frenchman said. "The atmosphere was fantastic."

Sam Allardyce had called for supporters to generate a big-match atmosphere and was delighted they responded to the performance, particularly in the second period. "They really got us going in the second half," Allardyce said.

"We started to lift the tempo and the fans started to get behind the players and you saw the difference. We started camping in Southampton's half and creating chances.

"I've always felt the players have to get the crowd going but they (supporters) must always be aware of the fact that it takes two to tango and Southampton came and sat on a good defensive unit.

"I've got no grumbles about that whatsoever because we do exactly that when we go away from home.

"But, instead of the exciting game we had against Liverpool, this was a bit more low key and their support was crucial - certainly in the second half."