CHRISTMAS HERE AT LAST FOR PARKY

BOLTON

Ameobi 33, O’neil 65

ROTHERHAM

Vaulks 37 PHIL PARKINSON’S best Christmas present was the first Bolton victory in 14 games.

Gary O’neil’s first goal for the Wanderers lifted them to within a point of fellow strugglers Rotherham, though they remain in the Championship drop zone.

After a first win since September, Parkinson said: “I got some good presents for Christmas, but that was the best of the lot. We’ve been on a really tough run, but the lads have never let their heads drop and credit to them all for that.

“Both sides were a bit edgy at times, but we deserved to win. I’m pleased for the players and the fans. They were great today.

“We needed that result, undoubtedly. It was a full-bloodied encounter, but the lads dug deep to get their reward.”

An awful game between two confidence-sapped sides burst into life just past the half-hour.

Sammy Ameobi fired the Trotters into the lead, shooting low across keeper Marek Rodak and into the far corner for his third goal of the season.

But the Millers were on terms four minutes later when skipper Will Vaulks leapt superbly to meet Joe Newell’s free-kick.

Joe Williams’ effort was hacked off the line by Semi Ajayi and the hosts went in front in the 65th minute when midfielder O’neil (above) slotted home a low cross from Clayton Donaldson.

The roar around the stadium at the end of six long added minutes at the end was almost deafening.

Millers boss Paul Warne said: “Our effort is unquestionable, but we didn’t create enough chances.”