Bolton Wanderers and Stockport County are locked at 1-1 at half-time in the League One play-off final at Wembley Stadium. The match, which kicked off at 1pm BST, has already seen plenty of drama, including a goal disallowed after a VAR review.
Early Goal Sets the Tone
Bolton took the lead within three minutes. Thierry Gale cut inside from the left and unleashed a long-range strike. Stockport goalkeeper Corey Addai could only parry the ball, and Mason Burstow pounced to square a pass to Ruben Rodrigues, who fired home from close range.
Stockport Fight Back
Stockport responded well and equalised in the 11th minute. Adama Sidibeh ran onto a long ball and slotted past Jack Bonham. However, the goal was disallowed after a VAR review judged Sidibeh had committed a careless challenge on George Johnston in the build-up.
But Sidibeh was not to be denied. In the 29th minute, Odin Bailey floated a cross into the box, and Sidibeh flicked the ball with the back of his head into the bottom-left corner. This time the goal stood, making it 1-1.
Half-Time Assessment
Stockport had the better chances after going behind and will be confident heading into the second half. Bolton will need to avoid defensive lapses, as Sidibeh continues to pose a threat.
The match facts note that Stockport are aiming to reach the Championship for the first time since 2001-02, while Bolton have won three of their last four games against Stockport. Stockport have won just one of their seven matches at Wembley.
Kick-off for the second half is imminent, with both sides pushing for a winner to secure a place in the Championship.
