Reading FC manager Ruben Selles praised Bolton as ‘one of the best teams in the league’ following his team’s 5-2 defeat.
Despite the loss, the Royals stay six points above the relegation zone.
“We played against a really good team, one of the best we have faced in the league. It was a difficult game,” said Selles.
“We tried to press forward and we missed a couple of moments in the first-half.
“At 1-0 we were able to come back in the game and the penalty before half-time put momentum on their side.
“We need to analyse the final part of the game, we need to be more strong and more robust.”
Despite having two games in quick succession, the Royals boss did not believe that it was fatigue that hurt his team.
He continued: “Not physical tiredness. I don’t think that was the question. We have been there before in the period of Christmas when we play again after three days, it can be a factor for one or two players but not after the win at home, we came here with a fresh mind.
“Andy (Yiadom) has been two games out with the red card. Clinton (Mola) and Jeriel (Dorsett) have done a good job with that and were fresh so there was no reason for a change there.
“Everyone is working hard to get a spot in the line-up or come into the game to make an impact with their energy.”
Reflecting on the result of other teams, which saw five of the six sides below Reading lose, Selles said: “It is always good to keep the distance there. We are not looking at the situation when we are playing.
“We know the job is not done. It’s good they didn’t get victories but we need to do our job.
