Accrington Stanley 0-1 Colchester United
In a dramatic turn of events at the Wham Stadium, managerless Colchester United showcased their resilience with a 1-0 victory over an in-form Accrington Stanley. The U’s, having recently parted ways with Ben Garner, have now secured two consecutive wins, demonstrating their ability to bounce back in challenging times. On the other hand, Accrington’s impressive four-game winning streak was halted, much to the disappointment of their fans.
The match began with Colchester showing early promise. Joe Taylor’s strike in the sixth minute was narrowly cleared off the line, followed by Arthur Read’s effort in the 11th minute, which was deflected onto the post by Accrington’s Jon McCracken. As the game progressed, Accrington began to dominate, putting the Colchester defence under immense pressure. Goalkeeper Owen Goodman was kept busy, making several crucial saves to deny efforts from Shaun Whalley, Joe Pritchard, and Tommy Leigh.
Despite Accrington’s dominance and numerous goal-scoring opportunities, it was Colchester who broke the deadlock in the 57th minute. Taylor, on loan from Luton, showcased his striking prowess. Although his initial shot was saved by McCracken, Taylor was quick to react, slotting the ball home from a tight angle, marking his eighth goal of the season.
Accrington, desperate to level the score, intensified their attack. Goodman made another crucial save, pushing a Josh Andrews effort onto the crossbar. McCracken, at the other end, denied Connor Hall, ensuring his side remained in contention. The final moments of the match saw Accrington piling on the pressure, but Goodman’s heroics in goal and a bit of luck ensured Colchester walked away with all three points.
In summary, while Accrington will rue their missed chances, Colchester’s determination and defensive solidity were the highlights of the match. The U’s have sent a strong message to their critics, proving that even in the absence of a permanent manager, they are a force to be reckoned with.
Barrow 0-0 Salford City
At the Furness Building Society Stadium, Barrow and Salford City locked horns in a tightly contested Sky Bet League Two encounter that ended in a goalless stalemate. Barrow, showcasing their home strength, extended their unbeaten home record to six games, a testament to their fortress-like presence at their home ground.
The match saw its fair share of opportunities, with Barrow’s Dom Telford coming agonisingly close to breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute. Fresh off his first goal for the club in midweek, Telford’s effort struck the post, leaving the home fans gasping in disbelief. Salford’s goalkeeper, Alex Cairns, was quick to react, gathering the rebound and later making a crucial save in the second half, preventing an own goal from an Elliot Watt back pass.
The resulting free-kick for Barrow, taken from the edge of the six-yard box, saw a flurry of attempts from Telford, Niall Canavan, and Kian Spence, but all were thwarted by a resolute Salford defence. Matt Smith, the Football League’s top scorer, had a quiet afternoon, with Salford effectively neutralising his threat. Salford’s best chance came late in the game, with substitute Matty Lund failing to capitalise on an excellent cross from Declan John, sending his effort wide.
While Barrow will be content with their fifth unbeaten league game, their ascent up the table has been somewhat stymied by a series of draws. Salford, on the other hand, will be pleased to have secured a point away from home, especially against an in-form Barrow side.
In reflection, while both teams showcased moments of quality, neither could find the decisive touch to claim all three points. Both managers will undoubtedly see this as a missed opportunity, but also a testament to the competitive nature of the league.
Doncaster Rovers 1-0 Grimsby Town
In a closely fought encounter at the Eco-Power Stadium, it was Doncaster Rovers who emerged victorious with a slender 1-0 win over Grimsby Town. The pivotal moment came in the 72nd minute when Joe Ironside confidently dispatched a penalty, following a foul on substitute Kyle Hurst by Gavan Holohan.
The match itself was a testament to the competitive nature of the EFL League Two. Both teams grappled for control, with neither able to dominate possession for extended periods. Grimsby, despite being on the losing end, showed glimpses of promise. Harry Clifton, in particular, missed a golden opportunity, heading over the bar from a favourable position. On the other side, Ironside, who would later become the hero for Doncaster, had an earlier chance brilliantly set up by Tom Nixon but failed to capitalise, shooting over the bar.
The drama wasn’t just restricted to the pitch. In a significant post-match development, Grimsby announced the departure of their manager, Paul Hurst, signalling a period of transition for the club as they slide down the league table.
Throughout the game, both teams had their moments. Louis Jones, Doncaster’s goalkeeper, showcased his reflexes with a splendid save to deny Holohan. Grimsby’s Danny Rose was inches away from altering the scoreline, hitting the post early in the second half. After taking the lead, Doncaster looked the more likely to score again. Hurst’s attempt went into the sidenetting, and Owen Bailey’s powerful shot from a corner struck the bar.
In summary, while the scoreline might suggest a straightforward win for Doncaster, the match was anything but. Both teams had their chances, and on another day, the result could have been different. The departure of Grimsby’s manager adds an extra layer of intrigue to their upcoming fixtures. As for Doncaster, they’ll be buoyed by the win and will look to build on this momentum.
Forest Green Rovers 2-1 Crawley Town
At the innocent New Lawn Stadium, Forest Green Rovers showcased their resilience with a 2-1 comeback victory over Crawley Town, a win that saw them move three points clear of the dreaded relegation zone. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams displaying moments of brilliance.
The visitors, Crawley Town, drew first blood. A well-executed short corner routine found Ronan Darcy in ample space, and he didn’t disappoint, driving a low shot that ricocheted off the post and into the net in the 7th minute. However, the lead was short-lived. Callum Morton, the standout player for Forest Green, found the net in the 27th minute. Displaying great composure, Morton carved out a yard of space for himself in the penalty area and fired a shot past Crawley’s goalkeeper, Corey Addai.
Morton wasn’t done for the day. Just before the halftime whistle, he capitalised on a flick-on from Kyle McAllister and calmly slotted the ball home, giving Rovers a lead they wouldn’t relinquish. The hosts had their goalkeeper, James Belshaw, to thank for ensuring the three points stayed at home. Belshaw pulled off a series of remarkable saves, the pick of the bunch being a reaction save to deny Klaidi Lolos’ deflected shot.
While Forest Green had opportunities to extend their lead, with Morton forcing Addai into another excellent save, the match ended 2-1. This victory marked only the second home win of the season for Rovers, but what a crucial one it was.
In reflection, this match was a testament to Forest Green’s fighting spirit. Trailing early, they rallied back and secured a win that could prove pivotal in their quest to avoid relegation. For Crawley, it’s back to the drawing board as they ponder on missed opportunities and defensive lapses.
Gillingham 0-2 Newport County AFC
In a match that was overshadowed by an off-field incident, Newport County AFC emerged victorious with a 2-0 win over Gillingham. The hero of the day was undoubtedly striker Omar Bogle, who netted twice from the penalty spot. His first goal came in the 20th minute, capitalising on a mistake by Gillingham’s Cheye Alexander. As Bogle celebrated, he appeared to be racially abused by a Gillingham supporter. The club acted swiftly, issuing a lifetime stadium ban to the offender, who was also arrested.
Bogle’s second goal came just seven minutes later, following a foul on Matty Bondswell by the same Alexander. Gillingham tried to rally, with Connor Mahoney’s 25-yard strike hitting the crossbar and Jonny Williams missing a header. Bogle, on fire, was denied a hat-trick by a brilliant block from Gillingham’s Ethan Coleman. Williams and Mahoney had further chances for the hosts, but they couldn’t find the net.
The incident involving Bogle is a stark reminder that football, as much as it is about the beautiful game, is also a reflection of society. Racism has no place in the sport, and swift actions like Gillingham’s are a step in the right direction. On the pitch, Newport’s performance was clinical, capitalising on their chances and showing defensive solidity. Gillingham, on the other hand, will rue their missed opportunities and defensive lapses.
Harrogate Town 0-1 Crewe Alexandra
Crewe Alexandra managed to secure their first consecutive away victories since August 2021, with a narrow 1-0 win over Harrogate Town. The only goal of the match came from the young talent, Zac Williams, in the first half. This goal added to Harrogate’s woes, marking their fifth consecutive home defeat, their worst run since joining the EFL.
The match had its moments of brilliance, with Crewe’s goalkeeper, Harvey Davies, showcasing his skills by deflecting Matty Daly’s powerful 12-yard drive. Chris Long of Crewe also had a chance but narrowly missed the target. Williams’ goal was a result of a long throw from Mickey Demetriou, which the Harrogate defence failed to clear, allowing the 19-year-old to head it in.
The second half saw Harrogate pushing for an equaliser. There were strong appeals for a penalty when Joel Tabiner seemed to have fouled Daly, but the referee thought otherwise. Harrogate’s Levi Sutton missed a golden opportunity, heading wide in front of an open goal. Crewe’s Connor O’Riordan also had a chance to double the lead but shot wide. The match saw Lewis Thomas making his EFL debut as a substitute goalkeeper for Crewe, and he marked it with a crucial save in stoppage time against Courtney Baker-Richardson.
In summary, Crewe’s resilience and ability to capitalise on their chances saw them through, while Harrogate will be ruing their missed opportunities and looking to turn their home form around.
Mansfield Town 2-1 Walsall
Mansfield Town continued their impressive form, extending their unbeaten run to 19 games in all competitions with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Walsall in League Two. The home side’s dominance was evident from the start, and they took the lead in the 16th minute. Aden Flint’s initial header from a George Maris corner was thwarted by a combination of the crossbar and Walsall’s goalkeeper, Owen Evans. However, in the ensuing scramble, Flint managed to find the net, giving Mansfield the lead.
The home side continued to press, with Maris seeing his effort deflected just wide and Davis Keillor-Dunn forcing a save from Evans. Walsall’s Aaron Lewis missed a golden opportunity just after the break, sending his shot over the bar. But the visitors found their way back into the game in the 52nd minute. Tom Knowles provided a low cross for Ryan Stirk, who slotted home against his former club, bringing the score level.
The game seemed poised for a draw, but Mansfield had other ideas. In the 71st minute, Jordan Bowery secured the win for the home side with a clinical finish from Will Swan’s cross, which found its way into the net off the inside of the post.
In reflection, Mansfield showcased why they are a force to be reckoned with this season, displaying resilience and determination. Walsall, on the other hand, showed glimpses of promise but will be disappointed not to have taken something from the game.
Milton Keynes Dons 3-2 Swindon Town
In a thrilling encounter at Stadium MK, MK Dons edged out Swindon Town 3-2. The Dons, riding high on confidence, secured back-to-back wins. Max Dean’s precision strike had the hosts leading at half-time. However, the game’s dynamics changed post the break with Jake Young’s equaliser for Swindon. The Dons, not to be outdone, responded with goals from Warren O’Hora and an unfortunate own goal by George McEachran. Swindon’s late surge, marked by Frazer Blake-Tracy’s last-minute goal, added to the drama but wasn’t enough to salvage a point.
Morecambe 4-1 AFC Wimbledon
Morecambe showcased their attacking prowess with a convincing 4-1 win over AFC Wimbledon. Michael Mellon, the on-loan Burnley striker, was the star of the show, netting a second-half hat-trick. Mellon’s first was a testament to his composure, rounding the keeper to score. An own goal further compounded Wimbledon’s woes. Mellon’s penalty and a late strike sealed the deal for Morecambe, despite Armani Little’s consolation goal for the visitors.
Notts County 0-2 Wrexham
Wrexham’s promotion ambitions were given a boost with a 2-0 victory over Notts County. In a game that saw both teams vying for supremacy, it was Wrexham who emerged victorious, thanks to goals from Elliot Lee and substitute Ollie Palmer. The Welsh club’s recent form has been impressive, with this win marking their fourth in five games. Both goals came in quick succession in the second half, leaving Notts County with little time to respond.
Stockport County 2-0 Tranmere Rovers
League leaders Stockport County continued their impressive run with a 2-0 win over Tranmere Rovers. The hosts set the tone early with Josh Coley finding the net in the fourth minute. Tranmere’s hopes of a comeback were dashed when they were reduced to ten men, with Harvey Saunders receiving his marching orders. Stockport capitalised on their numerical advantage, with Antoni Sarcevic doubling their lead. Despite hitting the woodwork twice, Stockport held on for a crucial win.
Sutton United 2-1 Bradford City
Sutton United returned to winning ways with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Bradford City. The hosts took an early lead through Josh Coley, but Bradford’s resilience saw them level the scores with a goal from Andy Cook. However, it was Harry Beautyman’s late header that ensured all three points for Sutton. The win was a much-needed boost for Sutton, who had been on a three-game losing streak.
