Bristol City defender George Tanner calls win at Bolton 'euphoric' before Wolves visit

Bristol City’s recent form took a dramatic turn at the Toughsheet Community Stadium in Bolton. Scott Twine scored a goal in the third minute of stoppage time to secure a victory for the visitors. George Tanner, the club’s defender, was present for the final moments of the match. He described the atmosphere in the dressing room as a moment of pure ecstasy.

City had taken the lead earlier in the game through their first open-play goal in over a month. However, the team found itself trailing with six minutes remaining. The late comeback ended the club’s winless streak in a high-scoring finale. Tanner, who is 26 years old, noted that such victories are rare, particularly when played away from home in the dying seconds of a match.

The defender, who was born and raised in the north of England, had family and friends in attendance during the game in Lancashire. He said it was a special occasion to secure the win in front of those supporters. Over his five years at Ashton Gate, Tanner has been part of several late victories, including wins against Middlesbrough and West Brom during a previous play-off campaign.

Tanner has established himself as a regular starter under manager Michael Skubala. He has also started regularly under previous managers Nigel Pearson, Liam Manning, and Gerhard Struber. When discussing Skubala, Tanner said the manager works extremely hard. He added that the team is still trying to find its best way of playing, but he has enjoyed his time under the new leadership.

The player’s role has shifted in recent weeks. For the last two matches, including the draw with Stoke City and the win at Bolton, City has utilized a back-three formation. Tanner has operated as the additional defensive body in that setup, joining Lisav Eissat and Luke McNally. He stated that he enjoys the position and feels it suits his game, though he is equally comfortable playing at right-back in a standard four-man defense.

With 173 appearances to his name since arriving from Carlisle United in 2021, Tanner is among the most experienced players in the squad. He noted that the physical and psychological demands of the Championship can be brutal for younger players. He sees it as his responsibility to help newer teammates navigate the pace and intensity of the league.

Tanner specifically pointed to Rio Cardines as a young player who is learning the game. Cardines, a 20-year-old Trinidad and Tobago international on loan from Crystal Palace, has recorded six assists this season. Tanner said he is happy to assist Cardines with defensive duties and offer experience, noting that the two can help each other develop.

The team faces a challenging schedule ahead. Bristol City will welcome Wolverhampton Wanderers to Ashton Gate on Wednesday evening. Wolves are currently seventh in the Championship table and are considered a promotion favorite. They dropped out of the Premier League at the end of the previous season.

City has won only two of its seven home matches this season. Tanner admitted that the home form has not been sufficient. He believes the team has the opportunity to change its trajectory given its strong results away from home. He stated that if the team focuses on performance, the results will follow.

The defender described the upcoming week as a big one for the club, featuring two home games. He expects Wolves to play in a front-footed manner, which differs from some recent opponents who sat deep. He hopes the team can use this match to build on the momentum generated by the recent draw at Stoke and the victory in Bolton.