Bolton just managed to scrape a narrow 1:0 win at home to Rabotnicki and earn a place in the UEFA Cup group stage. The struggling Premiership team needed Nicolas Anelka's introduction in the second half to edge their opponents as the Frenchman scored with his first touch on 68 minutes. Rabotnicki tried hard to force extra-time but failed to deliver in the final third and bowed out.

Sammy Lee rang the changes in his starting line-up and introduced an second-string line-up. Lubomir Michaelik started at the back while Danny Guthrie was playing in midfield. Kavin Davies was leading attacking line with Christian Wilhelmsson and Daniel Braaten on the wings. Rabotnicki's Dragoljub Behlavac handed a chance to Tome Pacovski on goal after Filip Madzovski gifted Bolton the equaliser in the first leg. Zeljko Kovacevic was back in defence after serving a ban but there were no other changes in the line-up.

Bolton looked disjointed in their new look and the players were struggling to find their rhythm against the organised Macedonian outfit. Davies twice headed over from good positions while Guthrie fired wide from the edge of the area but overall it was an instantly forgettable first-half with very few clear chances.

The introduction of Stelios Giannakopoulos made the home attack more lively after the break. The Greek should have opened the score after rounding the keeper and shooting into the gaping net. The shot was too weak and the ball was cleared just before the goal line though. Davies missed another sitter by firing wide when left unmarked. The hosts were getting anxious to break the deadlock and Anelka proved the rescuer when he headed a fine Stelios cross above the keeper. With a lead to protect, the hosts closed down the game and Rabotnicki needed to find a opening in their attempt to force extra-time. Yet, they missed their only chance of the game ten minutes from time when Ivan Trickovski fired wide from a good position.

Bolton were everything but convincing in this game and Lee surely need to bolster his ranks if he is looking for an extended run in this competition. The team lack cohesion in midfield and will surly struggle against more quality teams. Rabotcnicku can be proud of their battling display that almost earned them a draw. The Macedonian team gained some valuable experience and will be hoping for more next season.