BOLTON’S hard-earned 10-7 win at Carlisle on Saturday may not have been one for the purists, but captain Chris Cockton believes it could prove to be massively important.

The victory ended a run of two straight defeats and helped keep them in 11th place in North One West, seven points clear of the bottom three.

It also ensured they cut the gap to their 10th-placed opponents to just four points.

And while Cockton was not always impressed by some of the rugby on display, he could not fault his side’s determination.

“It was a massively important game for us, as it was 10th versus 11th, but not a great game for the spectators,” he admitted.

“It was the performance of a team low on confidence, and after our recent results, that is understandable.”

Both sides battled the elements almost as much as each other on what was a very windy day at Warwick Road.

The packs were at the fore in difficult conditions for expansive rugby, but Bolton took a lead into the break courtesy of a penalty from full-back Mark Doherty.

Carlisle grew into the contest after the break, however, and took the lead through a Josh Holmes try.

Bolton came roaring back, though, and after seizing on a loose pass from the home side, Mike Richardson was put through to touch down for a try converted by Doherty, re-establishing their three-point advantage.

Cockton’s side then showed their “backs-to-the-wall” spirit to stand firm as Carlisle looked for a way through their defence.

And that rearguard action proved just about enough for the Cherry and Whites as the scores remained the same until the final whistle.

The home side may well rue their inaccuracy with the boot, missing two long-range penalties in the final exchanges.

But Bolton’s luck held to ensure they returned to Avenue Street with a confidence-boosting win, after completing the double over the Cumbrians this season.

And their day was topped off by a defeat for 12th-placed Eccles against Widnes.

“It was a backs-to-the-wall sort of game,” said Cockton.

“Carlisle came back strongly in the second half and looked as if they might break our line, but our defence was spectacular and we held on for the win.

“At the end they had chances to level and win the game with a couple of penalties, but they couldn’t take them and we are grateful for that.”

Next up for Bolton is a home match against Vale of Lune.