Late Strike Sends Bolton to Play‑Off Final

In a tightly contested Sky Bet League One play‑off semi‑final, Bolton Wanderers edged out Bradford City on the night, thanks to a late strike from winger Xavier Simons. The 81st‑minute goal gave the Whites a 1‑0 victory and a 2‑0 aggregate lead, sending them through to the final at Wembley.

The match at Valley Parade was a defensive battle, with both sides struggling to find clear chances. It was not until the 68th minute of the second half that the first decisive moment arrived. A Bolton counter‑attack saw Kayden Jackson’s header ruled offside, but the ensuing scramble produced the opportunity that Simons seized.

Key developments

Simons, who has been a key player for the club all season, delivered under pressure: he cut inside from the wide, controlled the ball with a quick turn, and fired a low drive past Bradford keeper Mason Holgate to seal the win. The goal was the only one of the encounter, leaving the aggregate score at 2‑0 in Bolton’s favour.

Bolton’s manager Steven Schumacher celebrated the result, noting that the win keeps the club’s promotion hopes alive. The team will now face Stockport County in the play‑off final on Sunday, May 24, with a place in the EFL Championship at stake.

What happens next

Despite the loss, Bradford’s Graham Alexander praised his side’s effort, pointing out that the match was decided by a single moment and that the team will use the experience to bounce back in the next season.

With the final set for Wembley, fans of both clubs will be eager to see whether Bolton can maintain their form and secure promotion, while Bradford looks ahead to regroup and prepare for the challenges ahead.