IT is entirely fair to say that a Papa John’s Trophy Second Round game against Fleetwood Town did not capture the Bolton public’s imagination – with just 1,733 present at the UniBol for last night’s 1-0 win.

The competition has struggled to attract big attendances in the early stages and since the rebrand in 2016, which included the introduction of Category One academy sides, there has been a mood of protest among some supporters.

Wanderers’ Papa John’s Trophy Attendances

9,062 v Bradford City (September 3, 2019)

2,926 v Port Vale (August 31, 2021)

2,616 v Manchester City Under-21 (October 29, 2019)

2,299 v Liverpool Under-21s (October 5, 2021)

1,733 v Fleetwood (November 30, 2021)

1,589 v Blackpool (October 4, 2016)

1,540 v Everton Under-23s (August 30, 2016)

0 – Crewe (September 8, 2020)*

0 – Newcastle Under-21s (November 17, 2020)*

* - During lockdown when fans were not allowed into the stadium.

The Bolton News:

Wanderers won the equivalent competition in 1989, then branded the Sherpa Van Trophy, and also reached the final in 1986 when it was known as the Freight Rover Trophy.

They have now reached the third-round stage for the first time and will be drawn against another side in the northern section on Friday.

After that, both northern and southern teams will be drawn out of the same hat for a quarter final and semi-final stage.

Were you among the smattering of supporters who made the trip to the UniBol on Tuesday night? Perhaps we caught you on camera in our Fans’ Gallery? Click on the photos to view.