WANDERERS boss Ian Evatt says their FA Cup defeat against Stockport is the worst they have played since he took charge.

The Whites suffered a 5-3 defeat in extra time at Edgeley Park despite goals from Elias Kachunga and Amadou Bakayoko, plus an Ash Palmer own goal.

Evatt admits his side weren’t good enough on the night and says they feel like they have “let everybody down”.

“Even though we took the lead, from minute one to minute 120 we were outplayed, outfought, out-battled, out-ran,” said the Bolton boss.

“We’ve had some low points during my time – I would say that’s the worst we’ve played during my spell at the club. It’s not acceptable. They deserved it, credit to them.

“These things hurt. The night, the occasion, the fact it’s on national TV. We’ve let everybody down. We just weren’t at it.

“People talk about old school, new school – the game hasn’t changed, it hasn’t. Unless you run, scrap, fight as the basics and bare minimum, you will get beat.

“We can concentrate on pass detail, rotation, technical positions, playing out from the back – you have to run and fight and scrap, and tonight we didn’t do that well enough.”

However, Evatt refused to place the blame solely on the players and wants to see a big response against Wycombe on Saturday afternoon.

He added: “I’m their leader so I’m included in that. It’s about us all letting the club down.

“We’ve had a wonderful weekend and a great win on Friday, and today that has left a bitter taste. We haven’t got time to sulk, we haven’t got time to worry and overthink.

“We just need to do better and that starts on Saturday with a very tough away fixture.”


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