Wanderers had to settle for a point following a hard-fought encounter against Barnsley, but what did we learn from the contest?

Devante Cole gave the visitors an early lead but Bolton hit back through Zac Ashworth’s header after the break.

Ian Evatt’s men have now lost just one of their last eight league games heading towards the business end of the campaign.

Collins cameo

Wanderers fans were excited to get a first look at new signing Aaron Collins, and he didn’t disappoint.

The versatile forward, who joined from Bristol Rovers on Deadline Day, made an immediate impact by setting up Ashworth’s goal with a delicious cross moments after coming off the bench.

Collins also went close to getting on the scoresheet himself when his deflected strike was somehow kept out by Liam Roberts at full stretch.

It can be hard for players to join a new club midway through the season, but the Welshman can take plenty of confidence and belief from his display against the Tykes.

Ashworth character

It has been a rather eventful week for Ashworth, whose goals against Carlisle and Barnsley bookended the penalty shootout heartbreak at Blackpool.

The youngster had to be patient for a run in the side during the first half of the season, picking up a few injuries along the way.

Ashworth took his header well after making an intelligent run to get on the end of Collins’ pinpoint delivery.

The 21-year-old is starting to show what he is all about in the left wing-back role while Randell Williams is out injured. He now faces competition from Nat Ogbeta, who had a dream start at Carlisle following his loan switch from Swansea.

Baxter impact

Nathan Baxter continues to impress between the sticks, making a vital stop to deny Cole early in the second half.

The Bolton goalkeeper also saved from Adam Phillips, and a goal at that time might well have seen Barnsley return to Yorkshire with all three points.

Baxter’s contribution is even more impressive considering he hurt himself during the opening 45 minutes while making another impressive stop, not knowing the offside flag had gone up on that occasion.

The 25-year-old has been an even-present figure in the league as he aims to get back to the Championship with the Whites.

Tight at the top

The result leaves Evatt’s side third in the table, although they still have three games in hand on leaders Portsmouth.

Pompey are now five points clear of Wanderers following a comfortable 4-1 victory against Northampton.

Derby are up to second after winning 1-0 at Charlton, while Peterborough slip to fourth following a 3-2 defeat against Wigan. Barnsley remain in fifth and Stevenage currently occupy the remaining play-off spot.

However, there is still plenty to be played before the season comes to a conclusion at the end of April. The main thing for Bolton is that their destiny is very much in their own hands.