It was a bright and vigorous start from Rovers with Robbie Gotts seeing a lashed shot go just wide, thanks to a slight touch from home stopper Jack Bonham. The hosts then wrestled back the initiative and whilst enjoying plenty of the ball, they were not seriously testing Thimothee Lo-Tutala - one of three changes from the win over Blackpool.
Thierry Gale cut inside from the left and saw a fierce shot just clear the post before a deflected Johnny Kenny effort looped up into the air and fell into the welcoming arms of the alert Lo-Tutala. Down the other end Glenn Middleton's effort was charged down by a Bolton defender just a few yards out before half-time.
The second half was equally as enthralling a contest, as both sides tried to unpick the lock of the opposition's defence. Genuine chances, in truth, were at a premium as Bolton tried everything to break down a formidable Rovers defence.
Sub Rob Apter did come close for the hosts but Lo-Tutala pulled off a fine save to tip it behind for a corner. That was to prove one of just 24 shots for Bolton but Rovers stood firm - and could even have won it late on when subs Billy Sharp and Jordan Gibson came close.
Here's how we rated the Rovers players at the Toughsheet:
13. Billy Sharp 5
One good chance after his introduction but placed a shot wide of goal. Photo: Howard Roe/AHPIX LTD
14. Jordan Gibson 5
Added impetus when he came on. Could well have won it only to see one shot blocked and then wastefully lash wide at the second time of asking. Photo: Howard Roe/AHPIX LTD
15. George Broadbent 5
On at the death for Molyneux. Teed up Sharp for his chance. Photo: Howard Roe/AHPIX LTD