The Owls named a very, very young side at the Toughsheet Community Stadium, with nine players in the starting XI that were aged 21 or under. But despite their age, they gave an incredible account of themselves against their League One opponents, scoring three goals in an enthralling 3-3 draw.
Gui Siqueira scored a screamer, Ike Ugbo got back in the goals, and Reece Johnson poked home a lovely deft finish - however they were pegged back on all three occasions.
In the end it was left to penalties to decide it, and Pierce Charles was the man to come up trumps as he saved two to book the Owls’ spot in the next round of the Carabao Cup. Here’s how we rated the young Owls - and there are some pretty high numbers:
5. Reece Johnson - 8
A Sheffield Wednesday left-back called Reece Johnson? Clearly a Football Manager regen. In the real world, he acquitted himself nicely and netted the winner with a stunning tight finish. One ball to release Kobacki was particularly sumptuous - though called offside. Defensively strong - made five tackles. | Steve Ellis
6. Olaf Kobacki - 7
Defensively, handled things well in a bit of a foreign position. Perhaps a little soft to the danger at the back post for Bolton's goal but made a monstrous eight tackles in the first half alone. Not faultless for the second. Didn't always go his way going forward but he kept at it - and put in a fine cross for McNeill's | Steve Ellis
7. Rio Shipston - 8
Looked to get on the ball and tried things. Showed some nice passing range and put his foot in - showed leadership and dragged a couple of phases along with him. | Steve Ellis
8. Jarvis Thornton - 8
It was his battle and touch that nicked the ball to Siqueira for the opener and he was a combative figure throughout. Used the ball sensibly, kept it moving and did all the simple things well. A really calm and mature effort. | SWFC YouTube