Championship new boys Lincoln visit a Bolton side still finding their feet under Steven Schumacher, and both teamsheets show heavy turnover from midweek. Bolton's quick-start habit — half their goals so far have come inside fifteen minutes — meets a Lincoln defence that has alrea…
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Sign inBolton take on Lincoln at the Toughsheet Community Stadium on Saturday, 29 August 2026, in Round 3 of the Championship season. Lincoln are still looking to register a first win since returning to the second tier, having last played at this level in 1961.
Lincoln’s first home game in the Championship since 1961 ended in a 3-1 defeat to Portsmouth at Sincil Bank. The Imps started brightly – Adam Reach saw a free-kick tipped over and Tendayi Darikwa’s header was deflected behind – but Ryan Kavuma-McQueen’s seventh-minute strike put Portsmouth ahead. Adrian Segecic doubled the lead soon after, and although Reeco Hackett pulled one back from the penalty spot, substitute Ebrima Adams made it 3-1 in the second half. That result followed a 2-1 loss at Middlesbrough on the opening day, leaving Lincoln with no points and five goals conceded.
Bolton, playing in front of their own fans at the Toughsheet Community Stadium, will aim to take advantage of Lincoln’s struggles. While their own early-season form is not detailed in available reports, the Trotters will view this as an opportunity to put points on the board. Lincoln’s defence has shown vulnerability, particularly in transition, and Bolton will look to punish any gaps.
Lincoln’s Freddie Draper and Ben House combined to create an early chance against Portsmouth, with House’s shot saved after Draper’s through ball. Winger Reeco Hackett, a threat from wide areas and confident from the spot, will also be key. For Bolton, the hosts will rely on their own attacking options – though specific line-ups are not confirmed – to test a Lincoln backline that has yet to keep a clean sheet.
A first win would be a historic moment for Lincoln, but Bolton’s home form could prove decisive. The Imps will need to tighten up at the back if they are to avoid a third straight defeat.
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