WHY it is we approach games against teams deep in relegation trouble differently to those with slightly loftier ambitions?

Home matches are a 120-mile round trip for me which underlines my passion and commitment, two qualities I expect from anyone wearing the white shirt.

The last two away games at Saints and Sunderland represented a marvellous opportunity to pull away from the drop zone. But our negativity, based on a 'can't lose' rather than 'must win' obsession, has left us adrift. We were frankly pathetic in both those matches.

Having won only three of the last 26 games it does not inspire confidence that we require four wins from nine to ensure safety.

Against Derby, Middlesbrough, Southampton and Sunderland away we were edgy and nervous. Why? We more than held our own at Man United, Liverpool, Leeds and Arsenal, and did likewise for long periods at Spurs, Chelsea and Newcastle. The approach to those games was slightly gung-ho, and brought just rewards. I'm not saying be cavalier, just not ultra-cautious.

By the end of the season I will have attended 38 Premiership matches, I will have travelled thousands of miles and spent hundreds of pounds. I will be able to say that I gave my very best support to Bolton Wanderers.

I wonder if the players picking up fat-cat salaries will be able to give the same self assessment in May. If they can, I can look forward to another crack of the whip next season. If they cannot then I'll feel cheated and may just look elsewhere when investing my cash.

Martin Wild

Whitchurch, Shropshire