Bolton manager Dougie Freedman embarrassed by heavy defeat

Dougie Freedman

Bolton manager Dougie Freedman admitted he was "embarrassed" by his team's display in their 7-1 defeat at Reading.

Freedman's side, who are four points above the relegation zone, trailed 4-0 at the break at the Madejski Stadium on the way to their worst loss since 1982.

The former Crystal Palace boss said that none of his Bolton players could be spared criticism after the defeat.

"I'm not going to stick up for anyone. It was embarrassing. Not too many stood up for the jersey," Freedman said.

The Bolton manager was not happy with his players' response to his half-time team-talk.

He also felt that the move that set up an early chance for David Ngog, who scored Bolton's only goal in the 88th minute, was the only moment of quality from his side.

Freedman added: "For one second of the game, when we had that opportunity, we played well and with a bit of belief and honesty. But that was just a flash.

"I don't want many days like that and I certainly wasn't prepared for a half-time speech like that.

"It had to come from the heart. I told the players to play for their pride and their place in the team but I didn't see too many players who wanted that."

Bolton, who have won only two of their last 10 league matches, are 18th in the Championship table.