Bolton Wanderers kicked off their English Football League Trophy campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Rotherham United on September 3, 2024. A single goal was enough to separate the two League One sides in a closely fought encounter at the University of Bolton Stadium. The decisive moment came in the second half when Bolton converted a chance from inside the box, giving them a lead they would doggedly protect. Rotherham United pushed for an equalizer but found the Bolton defense in resilient form, with the goalkeeper making a crucial late save to preserve the clean sheet. The three points gave Bolton a positive start in a competition they have historically taken seriously. For Rotherham, it was a frustrating beginning, as they failed to turn their possession into a tangible result.