Bolton v Preston Prediction: Tense Lancashire Derby Expected

A betting preview ahead of Saturday’s EFL Championship match between Bolton Wanderers and Preston North End, with William Hill previewing the clash.

Our vivacious EFL Championship returns this weekend for another season of unbridled thrills and spills.

Those three clubs relegated from the Premier League – West Ham United, Burnley and Wolverhampton Wanderers – are already attracting intense football betting interest reflecting associated parachute payments. Nevertheless, plenty of other teams will fancy their chances, especially since the number of slots for competing in the Play-Offs expands to six.

Let’s take a look at the best Championship betting picks for opening weekend.

Bolton Wanderers v Preston North End Odds:

• Bolton – 6/5
• Draw – 21/10
• Preston – 11/5

It’s time for Tony Incenzo to take a look at both teams ahead of Saturday’s lunchtime kick-off. Who will make a flying start to the 2026/27 EFL Championship season? Read on for his thoughts.

Bolton Wanderers v Preston North End

• Kick-off: 12.30pm
• Toughsheet Community Stadium

Bolton Wanderers preview

• Final position 2025/26: 5th in League One

Bolton were some 16 points behind second place in League One before crushing Stockport County 4-1 at Wembley Stadium in the Play-Off Final. Their boss Steven Schumacher has admitted the Trotters are aiming to consolidate in 2026/27. However, I just feel Bolton aren’t quite ready for Championship football and will make a swift return to the third tier. Tuesday saw Wrexham striker Ryan Hardie incoming on a season long loan.

Preston North End preview

• Final position 2025/26: 14th

Indifferent results summed up by merely four victories from early January onwards by Preston. I’m looking forward to tracking the progress of highly rated ex-Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Alfie Devine who North End purchased for a club record fee of up to £6 million. Current transfer speculation surrounds Sheffield United striker Tom Cannon being linked with a loan move to Deepdale.

Bolton v Preston score prediction: Stalemate 0-0.

*Odds subject to change – prices accurate at the time of writing*