Darrell Clarke pleased by Walsall's second half response

Eoin Doyle gave the hosts the lead before Elijah Adebayo struck in the 44th minute.

In the second period the Saddlers came out buoyant and dominated the opening stages as Rory Holden netted the winner.

When asked how happy he was with the performance, Clarke said: “First half not so (happy) to be honest - I didn’t think we were anywhere near it.

“We get the goal just before half-time which gives us a lift.

“A few words at half-time and I thought the second half response was very good in that first 15, 20 minutes.

“We scored a good goal from a set piece that gives you something to hang on to.”

Meanwhile, Bolton manager Ian Evatt was furious on the sidelines on a number of occasions during the match and had arguments with several members of the Walsall backroom team.

Speaking after the match Evatt was unhappy with the conduct of the Saddlers staff but Clarke insists it was their passion shining through.

“It gets heated on the side and I don’t really want to get involved in it,” Clarke added.

“At the end of the day we’re passionate for this football club. The staff want to win for this football club.

“I don’t think we particularly overstepped the line, to be honest. We’re passionate people, that’s it.

“For me, he (Ian Evatt) can come into my office and have a drink.

“Ian is an experienced pro, he’s been around the block a little bit. I’ve come against Ian and he’s got a few tricks in his book himself.

“We understand it but we’ll take the win and try and enjoy it.”