Decisive figure sets the tone for Bolton Wanderers against Preston | OneFootball

Sam Dalby opened the scoring in the 14th minute with a left-footed finish, setting Bolton Wanderers up for a 2-1 victory over Preston North End.

The striker steered into the bottom-left from the centre of the box (14.), exploiting space between the centre-backs to tilt the game early.

From there, Dalby led the line with graft and presence. He recovered possession eight times, pinned Preston back in duels, and provided a dependable outlet for Bolton's counters.

After the restart, he was close to a second, his left-footed effort from the centre saved low by Daniel Iversen (74.). Moments later he won a free-kick in his own half to relieve pressure (75.).

Dalby finished with two attempts on target, five aerial wins and two clearances, a centre-forward's shift that combined threat with defensive discipline and kept Preston uneasy throughout.

Bolton visit Queens Park Rangers next. Preston host Wolverhampton Wanderers.