Preston – Bolton

Preston host Bolton in what promises to be a crucial clash in the lower reaches of the table, with the home side languishing in 23rd place on just three points after a solitary win from seven games and a worrying –7 goal difference (six scored, 13 conceded). Bolton arrive a little higher in 20th, having amassed seven points from two victories and a draw, but their own defensive frailties are evident in a –5 goal difference, having let in 12 while finding the net only seven times. For Preston, a win is essential to keep any hope of climbing out of the relegation zone, while Bolton will be looking to close the gap on the teams above them and solidify their push away from the bottom three. The two clubs have met only sporadically in recent seasons, and both will be eager to reverse their recent fortunes in this pivotal encounter.