Bolton Wanderers finished fifth in Sky Bet League One last season and earned promotion to the Championship after a 4-1 play-off final success over Stockport County at Wembley. The club opened their Championship campaign with a 2-1 win over Preston North End, a result that gave Sam Dalby the ideal start after he scored after 14 minutes. Manager Chris Cohen will be looking for his side to build on that momentum when they host Lincoln City at the Toughsheet Community Stadium.
How will Sam Dalby feature in Bolton's attack this season?
Sam Dalby, a 26-year-old striker, is heading into his second full season with Bolton Wanderers and scored after 14 minutes in the opening Championship game against Preston North End. Dalby scored 14 goals and assisted eight in all competitions last season for Bolton Wanderers, and he found the net again in the play-off final victory over Stockport County at Wembley. His early form suggests he will be a key outlet for the side as they look to establish themselves in the second tier.
What is the injury situation ahead of the Lincoln City clash?
Lincoln City head coach Chris Cohen said the whole football club, players, staff, himself and Tom are devastated by Tendayi Darikwa's injury. The defender ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in the second half of the clash with Portsmouth at the ProAmpac Stadium and will miss the remainder of the season. Reeco Hackett opened his account for 2026/27 by converting a spot-kick in Lincoln City's 3-1 defeat to Portsmouth, but the absence of Darikwa will be a significant loss for the side.
Can Lincoln City trouble Bolton at the Toughsheet Community Stadium?
Lincoln City and Bolton Wanderers have become familiar foes over the past six years. For a large portion of last season, Lincoln City and Bolton Wanderers were battling alongside each other at the top end of the table. The two teams played out 1-1 draws in both fixtures last season. The trip to face Bolton Wanderers last August saw Rob Street give Lincoln City the lead within 20 seconds, but Tom Hamer scored an own goal in the seventh minute of additional time to share the points. The last time Lincoln City emerged victorious on travels to Bolton was Valentine's Day 1984, a 2-0 success in the third tier with goals from Gordon Hobson and John Thomas.
Who is officiating the Bolton Wanderers versus Lincoln City match?
Benjamin Speedie will be the referee for the Lincoln City vs Bolton Wanderers match. Paul Hodskinson and Samuel Clayton are assistant referees for the match. Andrew Kitchen will serve as the fourth official. John Helm and Chris Laming will provide commentary for Imps+. Lincoln City will wear their 2026/27 home kit for the match against Bolton Wanderers.
What are Bolton Wanderers' next fixtures after the Lincoln City game?
Bolton Wanderers will be aiming to make it back-to-back wins when they face Lincoln City on Saturday 29 August at 3pm KO. The side currently sits with four points from their opening two Championship games. Next fixture: vs Sheffield Utd (away, 2026-09-01). Rúben Rodrigues is currently sidelined. The match will be reported by Lincoln City Football Club on Imps+.
