Norwich kept their first clean sheet for 25 Premier League matches as they increased the relegation threat for Bolton with a 2-0 success over the Wanderers. Bolton started off the day just two points clear of the bottom three but other results coupled with this defeat means they are in the relegation places again.
The Canaries move up to ninth and mid table security with a gutsy performance which was rewarded with two second half goals despite losing both centre-halves to first-half injuries.
The host's should have been ahead at the break but Andrew Surman hit the woodwork from three yards, but the player made amends with twenty minutes remaining as a cross was only partly cleared by the Bolton defence and Surman was on hand to volley a fine opener.
Norwich confirmed their fifth home win of the campaign in the closing stages when Russell Martin's shot could only be parried by the visitor's keeper but Anthony Pilkington reacted quickest to score from close range.
Bolton boss Owen Coyle will be disappointed his team didn't test the Norwich defence more with their unfamiliar look following the injuries.
For Norwich they brought their three game winless run at home to an end.
Referee: Lee Probert
Venue: Carrow Road
Attendance: 26,358
Norwich scorers: Surman 70, Pilkington 84 Bolton scorers:
TRIBAL ASKS: After beating Liverpool recently, then drawing with Arsenal, this lack of consistency from Bolton could prove to be their undoing
Yellow cards:
