Bolton Keep Promotion Hopes Alive with 2-0 Win Over Port Vale, Sealing Relegation

Bolton Wanderers kept their hopes of automatic promotion alive with a crucial 2-0 victory over Port Vale, a result that confirmed Vale’s relegation from League One. Aaron Collins and substitute Cameron Jerome were the heroes for Ian Evatt’s side, with Collins breaking the deadlock in the 72nd minute with a powerful right-footed shot, his eighth goal since joining the Trotters in January. Jerome sealed the win with a goal in stoppage time.

Despite dominating the game and hitting the woodwork three times, Bolton still need to beat play-off rivals Peterborough on the final day of the season and hope for a slip-up from Derby to secure promotion. On the other hand, Port Vale will be returning to the fourth tier after a disappointing season, winning only 10 out of their 45 games.

Port Vale manager Darren Moore expressed his disappointment at the relegation but remained optimistic about the future, stating, “It’s a sad day. The mood is down and sombre, but I am here for the rebuild. It is a fantastic club with wonderful owners and a wonderful fan base. We have lots of ideas going forward and I look forward to getting that plan into action.”

With plans to rebuild in League Two, Moore emphasized the need for structural changes and a strong team to compete in the lower division and eventually push for promotion back to League One. Despite the setback, Moore is determined to lead Port Vale back to success and beyond.