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Ian Evatt reckons Jayden Stockley’s red card during Wanderers’ 2-0 win against Fleetwood was the right call.
Stockley was given his marching orders by referee Ben Spedie just before the hour mark following an off the ball incident with MJ Williams.
The Whites had earlier gone in front through a Promise Omochere own goal, and Kyle Dempsey wrapped up the result with a simple finish from close range 12 minutes from time.
The result saw Wanderers secure a League One play-off spot with a game to spare after Peterborough dropped points against Bristol Rovers.
“Just before the referee stopped the game, there was a clear and significant hair pull,” Evatt told The Bolton News.
“He just yanked MJ’s hair and everyone could see it. The fourth official saw it but chose not to step in at that stage.
“Then the corner was over and as the player was running past MJ on the way back to his position, he had another little tug and a slap of his head. That time, the fourth official chose to step in.
“It was a really silly moment from the player, from someone so experienced. Obviously, that helped us in the game but I am pleased that – I believe – the right decision was made.”
Evatt’s men conclude their league campaign with a trip to the Memorial Stadium on Sunday, May 7 (12pm).
Elsewhere in the third tier, Plymouth and Ipswich both secured automatic promotion to the Championship following wins against Burton and Exeter respectively.
Fourth-place Barnsley drew 4-4 against MK Dons, with Max Watters scoring a dramatic equaliser four minutes from time.
And sixth-place Derby drew 1-1 against Portsmouth, with James Collins cancelling out Colby Bishop’s opener at Pride Park.
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