Oldham boss Harry Kewell's praise for Bolton's style of play

Zak Dearnley’s goal saw Latics pick up their first League Two win of the campaign with a 2-1 victory as Bolton’s wretched start continued.

But Kewell reserved credit for Wanderers, and Evatt’s determination to play the game the right way, despite the Whites head coach losing seven of his first nine games in charge.

“I would love to play Bolton every week because they are a proper footballing team,” said the former Leeds and Liverpool winger, whose side had picked up just one point from their opening five games before Saturday.

“I felt it was a good game with a lot of chances.

“I give credit for Bolton. They’re a fantastic team who love to pass the ball and like us they will get caught in certain areas at certain times.”

After a tough start, Kewell now hopes his side have a performance to build on as they look to move away from the wrong end of League Two.

“I can’t fault the work rate from my players today,” said the Australian.

“I felt honestly we deserved that win and we could have won by more. From moment one we were on the front foot.

“The players just needed to believe in themselves. If they kept working and kept sticking to the game plan and formation you will get your opportunities.

“We didn’t look unorganised, we looked compact, we looked strong. The confidence has always been there but hopefully we can be free to really express ourselves now.”

Dearnley’s winner saw him cover plenty of ground before firing home his first league goal of the season.

Kewell was pleased with the former Manchester United man’s impact after replacing Dylan Bahamboula five minutes from time, fellow substitute Alfie McCalmont providing the assist.

“Fair play to Zak – he has had injuries and a spell on the sidelines,” said the head coach.

“But he took his chance well. That’s what we all know Zak can do. We just want to get him to do it more.

“However, it is a positive for the team when the substitutes come on and make a difference.”