Bolton Secure Dramatic 2-1 Victory Over Rotherham on Boxing Day

Late Drama at Toughsheet Community Stadium

Bolton Wanderers secured a thrilling 2-1 victory over Rotherham United in their Boxing Day League One encounter on 26 December 2025, with Josh Sheehan scoring twice, including a dramatic winner in the 93rd minute. The result proved crucial for both sides’ contrasting ambitions in England’s third tier.

Promotion Hopes Strengthened

League One promotion hopefuls Bolton Wanderers looked to bounce back to winning ways after losing valuable ground in the automatic promotion race following a defeat at Wycombe Wanderers. Bolton currently rank 6th, while Rotherham United hold 18th position, highlighting the contrasting fortunes of these two Yorkshire rivals.

Bolton headed into the fixture with the only unbeaten home record in the division, collecting 24 points and only conceding five goals across 10 matches. The match statistics reflected Bolton’s dominance, with the hosts registering 65.7% possession, 12 shots on goal from 28 attempts.

Match Timeline and Key Moments

The first half proved tense, with Sheehan opening the scoring in the 45th minute plus added time to give Bolton a slender advantage at the break. Rotherham United fell to a fourth straight defeat in heartbreaking circumstances as the visitors fought valiantly throughout.

Just when it appeared Bolton would hold on for a narrow victory, Sam Nombe converted a penalty in the 90th minute to level the scores and seemingly secure a precious point for struggling Rotherham. However, Sheehan struck again in the 93rd minute to complete his brace and seal all three points for the hosts.

Implications for Both Clubs

Bolton climbed to fourth spot and the Millers slid to 21st following the result, intensifying the pressure on both managers. Rotherham are in desperate need of victory to help alleviate pressure on boss Matt Hamshaw, whose side have lost three on the spin and are winless in the league since early November.

For Bolton, the victory keeps their automatic promotion ambitions alive as they continue their push for a return to the Championship. The dramatic nature of the win demonstrated the resilience that has characterised their impressive home campaign this season.