Zach Clough's first goal for Bolton since returning to the club gave the hosts an invaluable 1-0 win in their Sky Bet Championship relegation scrap with Sunderland.
There was a hint of controversy about Clough's 17th-minute effort as Chris Coleman's visitors insisted the striker converted with a hand.
But referee David Coote waved aside protests and without ever looking convincing Wanderers pushed the Black Cats closer to the second-tier trap door.
Phil Parkinson's side are now seven points clear of Coleman's bottom-placed team and up to 19th.
Clough scored for Bolton for the first time since netting in defeat to Charlton on January 28, 2017, and this latest effort could prove one of his most priceless.
Bolton Wanderers 1-0 Sunderland
