Bolton v Preston, Middlesbrough v Lincoln, Bristol City v Millwall and more: football - live

During that aforementioned – well, alluded-to – first season of the Football League, Preston had the measure of their county rivals Bolton. They won 3-1 at home, and 5-2 away. But it’s not going so well for them today. First-half goals from Sam Dalby (14) and Thierry Gale (25) have seen the Trotters bolt out of the gate, and as it stands, Steven Schumacher’s newly-promoted side are top of the Championship. Too early to go with the table? Ah, let’s start as we mean to go on.

The 2026-27 Championship race started dramatically last night …

… but it really gets going now. Bolton Wanderers and Preston North End are already partying like it’s 1888-89, having kicked off an hour ago, and we’ll have more of that Victorian-adjacent malarkey in a minute. But! Wait!! Here’s the 3pm card!!!

Bristol City v Millwall Charlton Athletic v Derby County Middlesbrough v Lincoln ‌City Norwich City v West Bromwich ​Albion Portsmouth v Queens Park ⁠Rangers Stoke City v Swansea ​City

Other important news from elsewhere will be mentioned*, as a new season opens out before us, to a world of possibilities. It’s on!