Bolton Wanderers claim first Championship victory since 2019 with win over Preston

Bolton Wanderers have secured their first Sky Bet Championship victory since March 2019, defeating Preston North End 2-1 at the Toughsheet Community Stadium on Saturday. The result, achieved in front of a sellout crowd of 26,262, sees Bolton top the fledgling Championship table following their return to the second tier after a seven-year absence.

Steven Schumacher’s side established control early, with Sam Dalby and Thierry Gale scoring first-half goals to set the tone for the hosts. Dalby, who scored 14 times in all competitions last season, opened the scoring after capitalising on a weak save by Preston goalkeeper Daniel Iversen. Eleven minutes later, Thierry Gale doubled the advantage with a curling shot after being set up by John McAtee, who adapted quickly to the higher level of play.

Preston North End, who have competed in the Championship for 12 successive seasons, struggled to match Bolton’s intensity despite winning their last three away league fixtures against the Wanderers. Manager Paul Heckingbottom introduced substitutes Leo Leroy, Odel Offiah, and Jusef Erabi just after the hour mark in an attempt to shift the momentum.

The visitors reduced the arrears late in the game when Jusef Erabi headed in a cross from Andrija Vukcevic. However, Bolton held firm to deny Liam Lindsey a late equaliser, who missed a close-range opportunity in the dying moments. Referee Adam Herczeg issued a final warning to Bolton’s Josh Sheehan for a cynical challenge on Alfie Devine during the period of increased pressure.

The victory marks a strong institutional start for Bolton, who had been predicted to struggle upon their promotion via the League One play-off final. While Preston dominated possession in the final stages, Bolton’s defensive resilience, anchored by goalkeeper Jack Bonham, ensured they maintained their lead and secured a significant point in the new season.