Doncaster vs Bolton Prediction & Betting Tips (1 January)

Doncaster approach this League One meeting still searching for stability after a difficult run of results across the past two months, with their most recent outing being a 4–2 defeat away at Stockport County, a match that saw them show more attacking intent despite the lossDoncaster Rovers+1. Robbie Gotts and manager Grant McCann both stressed that the team must carry the improved spirit from that performance into the next fixture, especially as they try to halt a sequence of defeats that has placed pressure on their league position. Their earlier December form also included a narrow loss to Stockport in another meeting, highlighting recurring defensive issues that have yet to be fully resolved.

Bolton, meanwhile, enter this clash with a far more consistent rhythm, having produced several strong results throughout December. Their recent matches include a 2–1 win over Rotherham United, a 2–1 victory against Exeter City, and a 1–0 away win at Mansfield TownSky Sports+1. Even in their setbacks, such as the 2–1 defeat to Wycombe Wanderers, Bolton have shown structure and resilience, with manager Steven Schumacher recently commenting that the team must be sharper in both boxes after a frustrating home loss to Mansfield TownBolton Wanderers. Overall, their form across the past two months suggests a side capable of controlling matches and responding well to adversity.

Historically, Bolton have enjoyed the upper hand in this fixture, including a 1–2 win at Doncaster in April 2022 and a 3–0 home victory in November 2021tntsports.co.uk. Their current squad continues to benefit from the contributions of players like Burstow and Cozier‑Duberry, who remain among their most productive attacking outlets this seasonESPN. Doncaster, on the other hand, rely heavily on the creativity of Luke Molyneux and the work rate of Owen Bailey, but their inconsistency in both midfield control and defensive transitions has repeatedly cost them points. With both teams aware of the stakes, the tactical contrast between Doncaster’s need for stability and Bolton’s push for upward momentum adds intrigue to this encounter.

Taking all recent performances, squad availability, and momentum into account, Bolton appear better positioned to dictate the tempo and exploit Doncaster’s defensive vulnerabilities. Doncaster will likely attempt to build on the improved aggression shown in their latest match, but their ongoing issues at the back make it difficult to envision them shutting down a Bolton side that has been consistently effective in the final third. For these reasons, the most reasonable expectation is a narrow away win, and the predicted correct score for this match is 1–2.

• Summary: Doncaster Rovers is going head to head with Bolton Wanderers starting on 1 Jan 2026 at 15:00 UTC . The match is a part of the League One .
• Doncaster Feedinco Rating: 6.70
• Bolton Feedinco Rating: 6.85