Bolton Wanderers kicked off their 2026-27 pre-season campaign with a challenging friendly against Premier League side Everton on Saturday, July 25, 2026. The match at the Toughsheet Community Stadium served as a key test for the newly promoted Championship side, who finished 5th in League One last season with 75 points (19W-18D-9L), securing promotion through the play-offs.

How did Bolton Wanderers perform against Premier League opposition?

The Wanderers showed promising signs against higher-tier opposition, with manager Ian Evatt using the fixture to assess his squad's readiness for the Championship. Bolton scored 70 goals last season while conceding 52, finishing 28 points behind leaders Lincoln City. The friendly provided valuable minutes for key players returning from injury and an opportunity to test tactical formations ahead of the new campaign.

What are Everton's pre-season objectives?

Everton, managed by David Moyes, approached the match as part of their rigorous pre-season schedule. The Toffees used the fixture to build match fitness and refine tactical approaches before their Premier League opener against Crystal Palace. Moyes' side focused on defensive organization and possession play, with several first-team regulars getting extended run time.

What's next for Bolton Wanderers?

Following this test against Premier League opposition, Bolton will continue their pre-season preparations with another friendly before their Championship opener. The club aims to carry momentum from their League One success into the higher division, with fans eager to see how the squad adapts to the increased competition.

The match was not broadcast on traditional UK television but was available through Everton TV's streaming service. Both clubs used the fixture to fine-tune their preparations for the upcoming season, with Bolton looking to establish themselves in the Championship and Everton aiming for a strong start to their Premier League campaign.