Bolton Wanderers left their pre-season friendly against Everton with encouraging signs despite a 0-0 draw, as Steven Schumacher’s side laid early groundwork for the Championship push. The Whites, who finished fifth in League One last season with 75 points, held a clean sheet against Premier League opposition in their toughest pre-season test yet.

What happened in the friendly?

Everton started strongly, with Ruben Rodrigues forcing Mark Travers into a sharp save early on. The Toffees’ Thierno Barry thought he had scored before the offside flag intervened, while Jack Bonham made a crucial stop to deny Barry again just before half-time. Bolton nearly took the lead through Luca Stephenson, but his effort clipped the post. The second half saw Dalby head narrowly wide, as both sides cancelled each other out in a cagey spell.

Why it matters for Bolton Wanderers

Schumacher admitted his squad needs five more signings to compete in the Championship, where financial muscle often decides games. Bolton’s creative approach to recruitment has kept them competitive, but the window is closing fast ahead of their opener against Preston North End. The head coach praised the summer’s progress while stressing the need for more bodies to match the league’s bigger spenders.

Ruben Rodrigues continued his pre-season form, linking well with Kyliane Dong on the right and showing sharp movement. Thierry Gale, meanwhile, impressed with his pace and direct play, though his defensive work remains a focus. Luca Stephenson’s Championship experience shone through, while Xavier Simons’ display underlined his readiness for the rigours of the second tier.

What comes next for Wanderers?

With only weeks until the season starts, Bolton face a race against time to finalise deals. The club’s financial constraints mean every signing must count, but Schumacher’s side can take heart from a clean sheet and individual performances against a near-full-strength Everton side. The Whites’ recent form of L-D-D-W-L suggests momentum is building, though the real test arrives on the opening day.

League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 5th in League One, 75 pts, 19W-18D-9L from 46 games, recent form LDDWL.