Bolton Wanderers vs Leyton Orient: Preview, Predictions, Team News, & Lineups
Bolton Wanderers are set to host Leyton Orient on Saturday in a crucial League One match. The home team, currently fifth in the league, aims to solidify their playoff position. Meanwhile, Leyton Orient sits in 16th place, only three points above the relegation zone.
Match Preview: Bolton Wanderers vs Leyton Orient
Bolton’s recent form has seen them secure three victories out of ten matches across all competitions. Although they have struggled to maintain momentum in the promotion race, they recently earned four points from two away fixtures. This includes a 1-0 win against Wigan Athletic and a goalless draw with promotion rivals Stevenage.
Despite a decent home record, where they have collected 28 points from 13 games at Toughsheet Community Stadium, Bolton’s last two home games resulted in only one point. Their inability to secure wins against Mansfield Town and Northampton Town has raised concerns.
Leyton Orient’s Recent Performance
On the other hand, Leyton Orient will look to build on their recent performances, hoping to extend their unbeaten run to three matches. Following a four-game losing streak, they managed a commendable 1-1 draw against Cardiff City. They then defeated Reading 3-1 to end their winless streak.
However, their away form has been troubling, with nine losses in twelve matches. Their only away victory recently came in a 4-0 demolishment of Burton Albion, while they also suffered defeats against Barnsley, Peterborough United, and Luton Town.
Team News
- Bolton’s head coach Steven Schumacher might make adjustments to his starting lineup, with Kyle Dempsey and Thierry Gale pushing for recalls.
- Xavier Simons and Mason Burstow are expected to miss out due to fitness concerns.
- Goalkeeper Jack Bonham will continue to start after joining from Stoke City.
- For Leyton Orient, manager Richie Wellens is likely to maintain the same lineup as the Reading match.
- Defender Will Forrester, who recently moved from Bolton, is expected to feature against his former team.
- Ajay Matthews, another new signing, may be replaced by Azeem Abdulai in the lineup.
- Star player Dom Ballard has scored 15 goals this season, including a hat-trick last weekend.
Potential Lineups
Bolton Wanderers:
- Bonham
- Toal, Forino, Johnston
- Osei-Tutu, Sheehan, Dempsey, Conway
- Cozier-Duberry, Dalby, Gale
Leyton Orient:
- Cahill
- James, Forrester, Simpson
- Bakinson
- Clare, Wellens, O’Neill, Archibald
- Matthews, Ballard
Predictions
Considering Leyton Orient’s recent form and confidence from their win against Reading, they pose a challenge for Bolton. However, taking into account Bolton’s home advantage and their need to regain steady form, a 2-1 victory for Bolton Wanderers is predicted.
