BOSS Eddie Howe says Bolton’s exploits during the second half of last season can act as a spur as Cherries look to mount a strong finish to their campaign.

The Trotters were languishing in 20th at the start of February before a superb run saw them go within touching distance of gate-crashing the Championship play-offs.

Relegated from the Premier League in 2012, they registered 10 wins and four draws from their final 17 games and were pipped by Leicester on goal difference after finishing seventh.

Cherries, currently 13 points adrift of the top six and 10 clear of the bottom three, are five places in front of Bolton – who again find themselves 20th – ahead of tomorrow’s clash at the Reebok (3pm).

Howe told the Daily Echo: “What Bolton did last season shows what can be done by any team in the division. It is still tight and a lot of clubs, including us and them, will be looking both ways.

"A really good run of results could see you move up the table and into the promotion race and, likewise, you could be looking nervously over your shoulder if it were to go the other way.

“As Bolton showed last year, this is a great time to put together a run and have a consistent spell so you can enjoy the rest of the season.

"It can be done and we are aware what can happen in this division if you get the results that your performances merit. It is a big game for both teams.”

Bolton, 2-0 winners at Dean Court in November, host Cherries on the back of three successive defeats on the road, including a 7-1 hammering at Reading. Dougie Freedman’s team also lost 2-1 at QPR and 1-0 at Ipswich.

Howe added: “I have watched their past two games and they performed very well. They were unfortunate not to get any points from those two games and that is the type of division it is. From the performances I have seen, I would say they are in a false position.

“They have some very good individuals and a good manager. They have an experienced squad and a lot of players have played in the Premier League.

"At the start of the season, Bolton would have hoped to be competing for the top six but, for whatever reason, it hasn’t quite worked out for them.

“Although they will be disap-pointed to be where they are, it doesn’t mean it is going to be any easier for us. We have had a good run of home fixtures.

"Now, we are looking to pick up positive results on the road. I have been really pleased with our away form and performances and this will be another big test.”