Report: Lincoln City 0-1 Bolton Wanderers

Ian Evatt’s Bolton Wanderers looked to build on their unbeaten start to the season after successive 3-3 draws against MK Dons & AFC Wimbledon. In their way stood last season’s defeated play-off finalists, Lincoln City, managed by Michael Appleton. In the end, a late winner from Wanderers’ captain Antoni Sarcevic was enough to seal the points as Bolton claimed their first win of the season.

Liam Gordon came into the squad as Declan John missed out through injury while goalkeeper Joel Dixon retained his place in the Bolton goal. Wanderers defender George Johnston also came into the side to partner Ricardo Santos. Whilst for the home side summer signing Hakeeb Adelakun came into the side instead of Cohen Bramall who missed out.

The early periods of the game were plagued with technical issues from the ever-failing ifollow service. Apparently, it was the hosts who started brightly and put early pressure on the Wanderers defence with goalkeeper Dixon forced into an early high save from Connor McGrandles. Introduced into the side, Hakeeb Adelakun looked very lively, and was involved in everything Lincoln were putting together.

Bolton were on the back foot but by no means ineffective and Eoin Doyle was working tirelessly to force himself into the game and pushed a chance wide. For Bolton, the most concerning issue was forward Amadou Bakayoko limping off before half time. The forward has been impressive since signing from Coventry City and Bolton will be hoping his injury isn’t too serious.

Bolton started the second with a renewed intensity and moved the ball around with purpose as they took control of the game. Bolton were trying to fashion an opportunity but found it difficult to work the space in the area outside of the Lincoln penalty area.

After going close to scoring with a scrappy effort hitting the Lincoln bar, Wanderers finally took the lead following poor play in the Lincoln defence. Wanderers captain Antoni Sarcevic firing home after being found by substitute Elias Kachunga to send the travelling Wanderers fans into frenzied celebration.

Bolton held on to secure the win and look forward to a home game against Oxford United where they will be looking to build on their unbeaten start to the season.