Norwich City lose 3-4 to Bolton after twice leading

Norwich City twice surrendered a lead to lose 4-3 at home to Bolton Wanderers, a defeat that leaves them 17th in the Championship after conceding 13 goals in their last three matches.

Norwich City's defensive problems deepened with a chaotic 4-3 home defeat to Bolton Wanderers on Sunday. The Canaries led twice but could not hold on, conceding four goals in a single game for the second time in eight days.

Mohamed Toure put Norwich ahead after five minutes, but Thierry Gale levelled three minutes later. Ruairi McConville restored the lead in the 19th minute, only for Gaizka Larrazabal to equalise before half-time. Bolton took control after the break, with Sam Dalby and Atsuki Ito scoring either side of a Jack Stacey strike for the hosts.

Fans voice frustration

The result sparked sharp criticism from supporters, who pointed to a clear pattern. Philip noted the alarming tally of "13 goals conceded in the last three games, just isn't good enough!" That run includes a 5-0 loss to Manchester City and a 4-3 defeat at Middlesbrough. Stephen was critical of manager Clement, saying, "Why did Clement not change the defence? Bolton manager out-thought him, they played down their right all game, Cordoba couldn't cope."

Alan called the concession of eight goals in two matches "relegation form," while Keith described the defence as the team's weakest point and was scathing about the goalkeeper being beaten on his near post. The defeat leaves Norwich 17th in the Championship with nine points from eight games, having scored 16 but conceded 17.

What comes next

Norwich have now lost their last three matches in all competitions. Their next chance to stop the slide is an away trip to face Swansea City on 10 October. Before that, the international break gives Clement time to address a defence that has become the league's most porous. The manager must find answers quickly, with key midfielder Ali Ahmed currently sidelined.

Update, 26 Sep 2026

The EFL confirmed the decisive goal in Saturday's 4-3 defeat came from a long goal-kick. Atsuki Ito scored his first goal in English football after Norwich failed to deal with Gavin Bazunu's clearance, the league body stated. The Japanese midfielder, who joined from Gent last month, finished inside the near post. The defeat is part of a run of three consecutive losses, leaving the Canaries 17th in the Championship with nine points from eight games. The international break now gives Clement time to work.