Bolton Wanderers thrashed Stockport County 4-1 at the University of Bolton Stadium on 24 May 2026 in an EFL League One fixture that was far more one‑sided than the scoreline suggests. The comprehensive victory kept Bolton’s promotion push firmly on track.

Match Overview

Bolton came flying out of the blocks and had the game effectively wrapped up inside the first half‑hour. Stockport struggled to cope with the home side’s pace and intensity, and despite a brief rally after the break, they never looked like mounting a serious comeback.

Key Moments

• 8th minute – Goal: Bolton opened the scoring. A corner from the right was met by centre‑back George Johnston, who powered a header past Stockport goalkeeper Ben Hinchliffe.
• 22nd minute – Goal: Wanderers doubled their lead. Forward Dion Charles latched onto a through ball from midfielder Josh Sheehan and poked a finish into the far corner.
• 29th minute – Goal: Bolton went 3-0 up. Winger Randy Ablorh cut inside from the left and curled a brilliant shot into the top corner from the edge of the box.
• 45th minute – Goal: There was still time for a fourth before half‑time. Charles turned provider, crossing for striker Victor Adeboyejo to nod in from close range.
• 62nd minute – Goal: Stockport pulled one back through a well‑struck free‑kick from midfielder Will Collar, but the comeback never materialised.

Standout Performers

Dion Charles was the star of the show with a goal and two assists, causing havoc every time he ran at the Stockport defence. Josh Sheehan controlled midfield with his passing range and work rate. For Stockport, defender Fraser Horsfall was the only bright spot, making several last‑ditch clearances.

Table Implications

The win lifted Bolton into the League One automatic promotion places, thanks to a superior goal difference over third‑placed Derby County. Stockport remained in mid‑table, safe from relegation but outside the playoff picture. With only a few matches left, Bolton’s form is peaking at the perfect time.