Mason Burstow’s added-time goal earns Bolton a point at Reading

A stoppage-time goal from Mason Burstow rescued a Sky Bet League One point for Bolton in their 1-1 draw at Reading.

In-form home striker Jack Marriott gave Reading a half-time lead with his 17th goal of the season in the 36th minute.

However, the visitors dominated almost all of the second half and were rewarded when Burstow pounced in the sixth minute of added time.

Bolton could have gone ahead within the opening minute at the SCL Stadium when Johnny Kenny escaped the static home defence. However, with only Joel Pereira to beat, he drove straight at the Royals goalkeeper.

Reading replied strongly, with keeper Jack Bonham having to backpedal furiously to claw away a long-range attempt from Lewis Wing.

Defender George Johnston headed narrowly wide and Pereira saved smartly from Rob Apter as Bolton threatened a breakthrough.

But it was Marriott who did just that with an 11th goal in his past 13 appearances. Charlie Savage provided the perfect pass, with Marriott composing himself before lashing past Bonham.

Wanderers spent most of the second period camped in the home half yet the visitors’ non-stop pressure proved fruitless and Reading could have extended their lead but for Bonham’s fine save from a Wing piledriver.

Bolton upped the tempo towards the end and finally snatched the leveller when Burstow took advantage of a scramble in the home area and struck from close range.