Bolton Wanderers will host Burton Albion in a League One clash at the Toughsheet Community Stadium on Tuesday evening. Both teams have had contrasting fortunes recently. Bolton secured a 2-1 win over Leyton Orient, while Burton suffered a similar defeat against Lincoln City.
Match Preview: Bolton Wanderers vs Burton Albion
After a disappointing previous season, Bolton is vying for promotion, currently sitting third in the League One standings with 46 points from 28 matches. They trail Lincoln City, who occupy the final automatic promotion spot, by six points.
Bolton’s recent form has been promising, highlighted by an injury-time goal from Mason Burstow against Leyton Orient. This win extended their unbeaten run to three matches and solidified their position as a competitive team this season. They have been particularly strong at home, losing just once this year at the Toughsheet Community Stadium, where they have gathered 31 of their 46 points.
The Trotters boast an unbeaten streak against Burton at home, winning the last four encounters. They will be eager to secure a positive result, especially after their 3-0 defeat to the Brewers earlier in the season.
Burton Albion’s Struggles
Burton Albion, on the other hand, is fighting to avoid relegation. They currently sit 20th in League One, just one point above the drop zone. Their recent record is concerning, losing four of their last five league matches and conceding ten goals in that span.
Despite an earlier victory against Bolton this season, Burton has only managed one win in their last seven meetings with the Trotters. Their away form has been particularly dismal, with no league wins since beating Bradford City on November 11.
Recent FA Cup Success
Despite their league struggles, Burton found success in the FA Cup, reaching the fourth round by winning two consecutive away matches. They have earned a tie against West Ham United for February 14 at the Pirelli Stadium.
Team News
In terms of injuries, Bolton’s Amario Cozier-Duberry has ligament damage and will miss the match. Mason Burstow, who scored the recent winner, is expected to start in his absence. Furthermore, Finnish forward Marcus Forss remains sidelined with a hamstring injury.
Burton will be without several players, including Finn Delap, Jason Sraha, and James Jones, who have missed most of the season due to injury. Midfielder Charlie Webster is also out for at least another two weeks following ankle surgery. Alex Hartridge’s status is uncertain after sustaining facial injuries earlier this month.
Predicted Lineups
| Bolton Wanderers | Burton Albion |
|---|---|
| Bonham | Collins |
| Osei-Tutu | Godwin-Malife |
| Toal | Vancooten |
| Johnston | Sibbick |
| Conway | Lofthouse |
| Simons | Williams |
| McAtee | Chauke |
| Erhahon | Larsson |
| Burstow | Armer |
| Dalby | Beesley |
| Gale | Adom |
Conclusion
Given Bolton’s strong home form and Burton’s struggles on the road, expectations are high for a decisive home victory. While the Brewers managed an earlier win against Bolton this season, the current contrasts in form suggest a very different outcome this time.
