Bolton Wanderers secured their long awaited return to the Championship after defeating Stockport County 4-1 in the League One playoff final.
The victory completed a remarkable recovery story for Bolton, who dropped into financial chaos and even spent time in League Two after leaving the Championship in 2019.
Steven Schumacher’s side delivered a strong performance at Wembley, with substitute Sam Dalby producing one of the defining moments of the match through a spectacular overhead kick late in the second half.
Dalby changes the game after tense battle
Bolton started brightly and took an early lead through Rúben Rodrigues, who reacted quickest after a loose ball inside the penalty area.
Stockport thought they had equalised soon after, but the goal was ruled out following a VAR review for a foul during the build up.
Dave Challinor’s side kept pushing and eventually found their equaliser when Odin Bailey’s dangerous cross was turned into the net by Adama Sidibeh.
The match remained balanced until the second half when Bolton regained control. Kyle Wootton accidentally scored an own goal while trying to stop a low cross, giving Bolton a 2-1 advantage.
Spectacular overhead kick seals promotion
With Stockport chasing another equaliser, Schumacher introduced Sam Dalby from the bench despite the striker still struggling with an ankle problem.
The decision proved crucial. In the 81st minute, Dalby connected perfectly with a cross from John McAtee and fired an overhead kick into the net to make it 3-1.
Late drama followed when Stockport defender Josh Dacres-Cogley was sent off after a VAR review spotted a foul inside the box. Rodrigues converted the resulting penalty to complete the scoring.
Bolton complete remarkable comeback story
The promotion marks a major achievement for Bolton after years of instability that included administration, points deductions and fears of liquidation.
Club owner Sharon Brittan received loud applause from supporters during the final as fans celebrated the turnaround achieved under Football Ventures.
Manager Steven Schumacher, who previously guided Plymouth to promotion, said the result was an emotional moment for everyone connected with the club after several difficult years.
Stockport remain hopeful despite defeat
Although disappointed with the result, Stockport County continue to show major progress under manager Dave Challinor.
The club climbed from non league football back into League One in recent years and reached the playoff final after another strong campaign.
Challinor admitted his team struggled in the second half but expressed confidence that Stockport can continue building toward a future place in the Championship.
