Source: Liverpool_Echo
Liverpool 2 Bolton Wanderers 1: Match verdict by James Pearce
IT WASN'T pretty and it wasn't convincing - but for Roy Hodgson it represents a lifeline.[LNB]On his six-month anniversary the Liverpool manager was on the brink. The fat lady may not have been singing but she was certainly clearing her throat as the seconds ticked away at Anfield on Saturday.[LNB]More dropped points and another tale of woe and the clamour for Hodgson's removal would surely have reached fever pitch.[LNB]But from the depths of despair Hodgson was transported to the dizzy heights of ecstasy by substitute Joe Cole's dramatic last-gasp winner.[LNB] Rarely has a victory against such limited opponents been celebrated so wildly on the touchline, but then this wasn't just any three points. It was one of the most vital wins of Hodgson's 36-year managerial career.[LNB]Against Wolves three days earlier, anger and bitterness tumbled down from the stands, this time it was joy and relief.[LNB]Hodgson embraced each of his players as they left the pitch and then turned to salute the fans who he had offended in midweek when he bemoaned the lack of the 'famous Anfield support'.[LNB]'Absolutely outstanding,' was his description of the backing his side received on Saturday.[LNB]Hodgson lives to fight another day. The new year has brought him a glimmer of hope but he remains on thin ice.[LNB]'I guess so', was his response to questions about whether he still has the backing of owners Fenway Sports Group. Hodgson knows only too well that time and patience are in short supply on both sides of the Atlantic.
