Blackpool 1-3 Derby County
In a riveting encounter at Bloomfield Road, Derby County showcased their prowess on the road with a 3-1 victory over Blackpool. The Rams’ impressive away record continues to shine, having now won four out of their five league games away from home.
From the onset, Derby looked the more threatening side. Kane Wilson, making his first start for the club, had two golden opportunities in the first half. On both occasions, he failed to find the target, heading wide and firing off target from close quarters. Blackpool’s in-form striker, Jordan Rhodes, also had a chance to break the deadlock, but Joe Wildsmith’s reflexes kept the scores level.
The second half saw a flurry of goals. Korey Smith broke the deadlock for Derby, lashing Nathaniel Mendez-Laing’s cutback into the net with venom. The visitors soon doubled their lead through James Collins. However, Blackpool weren’t ready to roll over. Kenny Dougall’s header gave the Seasiders a glimmer of hope, reducing the deficit to just one goal.
Blackpool’s resurgence looked promising. Rhodes, who had been a constant threat, came agonisingly close to levelling the scores, but his header ricocheted off the bar. Tom Barkhuizen, coming off the bench, also had a chance cleared off the line, adding to Blackpool’s frustrations.
However, it was Derby who had the last laugh. In a swift counter-attack, Barkhuizen turned provider, setting up Martyn Waghorn for a simple finish, sealing the 3-1 victory for the Rams.
In reflection, while Blackpool showed moments of brilliance, it was Derby’s clinical finishing that made the difference. The Seasiders will rue their missed chances, especially with Rhodes coming so close. Derby, on the other hand, will be buoyed by another strong away performance, solidifying their credentials as one of the teams to watch this season.
Bolton Wanderers 3-2 Stevenage
In a pulsating match at the University of Bolton Stadium, the Trotters edged out Stevenage in a 3-2 victory, with both teams showcasing their attacking intent. The game was not just about the goals, but also a tribute to Bolton legend, Franny Lee, remembered with a minute’s applause.
The game kicked off with Bolton asserting their dominance early on. Dion Charles, capitalising on a foul on Jack Iredale by Dan Butler, confidently slotted home a 13th-minute penalty. However, Stevenage were quick to respond. Jamie Reid, showcasing his clinical finishing, levelled the score with his eighth goal of the season after a breathtaking 90-metre breakaway.
The second half began with Bolton regaining the lead, thanks to a volley from Australian defender Iredale, assisted by a corner from Josh Sheehan. But Stevenage, showing resilience, found an equaliser through Reid, who completed his brace with a 64th-minute penalty, reminiscent of the spot-kick prowess of Franny Lee.
However, the night belonged to Bolton. The man of the match, Iredale, turned provider, setting up Sheehan, who calmly controlled the ball and fired it into the net, sealing the win for the Trotters. This victory propelled Bolton to third in the league, while Stevenage will be reflecting on back-to-back defeats.
In hindsight, while Stevenage showcased their fighting spirit, it was Bolton’s determination and ability to bounce back that stood out. The Trotters will be hoping to carry this momentum forward, while Stevenage will be looking to regroup and come back stronger.
Bristol Rovers 3-0 Port Vale
In a commanding display at The Memorial Stadium, Bristol Rovers showcased their superiority with a comprehensive 3-0 victory over a 10-man Port Vale side. The highlight of the match was undoubtedly Jevani Brown, who found the back of the net, marking his first goal in Bristol Rovers colours.
From the onset, Bristol Rovers looked the more dominant side, capitalising on their numerical advantage and controlling the tempo of the game. Port Vale, despite their best efforts, struggled to contain the attacking prowess of the home side.
Brown’s goal was a testament to his skill and determination, and it’s clear that he’s quickly becoming an integral part of the Bristol Rovers setup. His ability to find spaces and exploit defensive lapses was evident throughout the match.
For Port Vale, playing with a man down was always going to be a challenge, and despite their resilience, they were unable to thwart the relentless pressure from Bristol Rovers.
In reflection, this match was a clear indication of Bristol Rovers’ intent and ambition for the season. Their clinical finishing and solid defensive display will surely send a message to the rest of the teams in League One. Port Vale, on the other hand, will need to regroup and find a way to bounce back from this setback.
Burton Albion 2-1 Wigan Athletic
In a gripping encounter at the Pirelli Stadium, ten-man Burton Albion showcased their resilience and determination, securing their first home League One victory of the season with a 2-1 win over Wigan Athletic. The hero of the day was undoubtedly Joe Powell, whose brace proved to be the difference between the two sides.
From the onset, Burton Albion displayed a sense of urgency, keen to turn their home fortunes around. Despite being a man down, they never let their guard down, defending with grit and launching counter-attacks with precision.
Joe Powell’s performance was a masterclass in midfield dynamism. His ability to control the tempo of the game, combined with his eye for goal, was a constant thorn in Wigan’s side. His two goals not only secured the three points for Burton but also showcased his importance to the team.
Wigan Athletic, on the other hand, will be ruing their missed opportunities. Despite having a numerical advantage, they struggled to break down a resolute Burton defence and were often caught off-guard by Burton’s swift counter-attacks.
In reflection, this match was a testament to Burton Albion’s character and determination. Playing with ten men for a significant portion of the game and still coming out on top speaks volumes of their team spirit and tactical acumen. Wigan Athletic, while showing glimpses of quality, will need to be more clinical in front of goal in their upcoming fixtures.
Cambridge United 0-4 Barnsley
In a display of sheer dominance, Barnsley continued their impressive away form, registering a fourth consecutive League One away victory with a thumping 4-0 win over Cambridge United.
The Tykes set the tone early on, with Nicky Cadden finding the net in just the seventh minute, courtesy of a precise assist from Corey O’Keeffe. The goal was a sign of things to come, as Barnsley’s attacking prowess was on full display throughout the match.
The second goal, however, had a touch of fortune to it. Cadden’s corner took a deflection off a Cambridge player, only to ricochet off Mael de Gevigney and find its way past the helpless Will Mannion. It was de Gevigney’s first career goal, albeit in unconventional fashion.
Cambridge, despite being on the back foot, did show glimpses of a comeback. Liam Roberts, the Barnsley goalkeeper, was called into action a couple of times, notably denying Jack Lankester and Gassan Ahadme.
However, any hopes of a Cambridge comeback were dashed just before the hour mark. After their appeals for a penalty were turned down, Barnsley immediately capitalised, with Callum Styles setting up Max Watters to score their third.
The final nail in the coffin came seven minutes from time. Jon Russell, with a touch of class, fired a brilliant shot from outside the box, following a pass from Josh Benson, sealing a comprehensive victory for the Tykes.
In reflection, while Cambridge will be disappointed with the result, they were simply outclassed by a Barnsley side that looks in imperious form, especially on their travels. The Tykes will be hoping to carry this momentum forward as they look to stake their claim at the top of the table.
Cheltenham Town 1-1 Fleetwood Town
In a clash that saw bottom-placed Cheltenham Town take on Fleetwood Town, the latter emerged victorious with a 2-0 win, further deepening Cheltenham’s woes. The Robins, who are yet to find the back of the net this season, equalled an unfortunate EFL record by failing to score for the 11th consecutive match.
Under the new leadership of Darrell Clarke, Cheltenham showed early promise. In the fifth minute, Jovan Malcolm’s effort struck the post, and Sean Long’s subsequent attempt went wide. The Robins’ fans must have felt that their goal drought was about to end. However, Fleetwood’s Junior Quitirna had other plans. In the 19th minute, he expertly curled a free-kick into the bottom corner, setting the tone for the rest of the match.
Cheltenham’s Curtis Davies, who had earlier seen his header saved by Fleetwood’s Jay Lynch, was shown a straight red in the 70th minute for a challenge on Ryan Broom. This dismissal further tilted the balance in Fleetwood’s favour. The Cod Army capitalised on their advantage in the 80th minute when Jayden Stockley’s shot rebounded off the bar, and Jack Marriott was on hand to tap in the second goal.
In conclusion, while Cheltenham will be ruing their missed opportunities and the continued goal drought, Fleetwood will be pleased with a solid away win. The Robins will need to find their scoring boots soon if they are to climb out of the relegation zone.
Northampton Town 3-1 Reading
Sixfields Stadium was buzzing with excitement as Northampton Town clinched a 3-1 victory over Reading, marking their second consecutive win in League One. This triumph was particularly sweet for the Cobblers, as it was their first home victory since August, while Reading suffered their fifth consecutive away league defeat.
The match kicked off with Northampton setting the pace. Their early dominance bore fruit in the 10th minute when Louis Appere set up Sam Hoskins, whose shot from a challenging angle managed to find its way past Reading’s David Button. The Cobblers continued to press, with Appere and Shaun McWilliams coming close. Reading, however, began to find their rhythm, and it was only due to Northampton’s goalkeeper, Lee Burge, that they didn’t equalise, with a fantastic save to deny Caylan Vickers.
Northampton’s persistence paid off once again just before half-time. Kieron Bowie’s exceptional work on the wing set up Appere, who confidently slotted the ball into the net, doubling the home side’s lead.
The second half saw Reading dominate possession and their efforts were rewarded when Dom Ballard found the net, courtesy of a lay-off from Harvey Knibbs. The Royals pushed hard for an equaliser, but Northampton’s defence stood firm. In a surprising turn of events, Reading’s unused substitute, Andy Yiadom, was shown a red card in stoppage time. Northampton capitalised on this momentum, sealing their win with a first-time finish from Mitch Pinnock.
In conclusion, Northampton’s win showcased their resilience and ability to take their chances. Reading, on the other hand, will be looking to address their away form as they aim to climb up the League One table.
Carlisle United 1-1 Peterborough United
In a thrilling encounter at Brunton Park, Carlisle United managed to salvage a point against Peterborough United, thanks to a last-gasp goal from Jordan Gibson. The match, which ended 1-1, was a testament to the unpredictability and excitement that the EFL League One consistently delivers.
The narrative of the game was set early on. Within the first two minutes, Jonson Clarke-Harris, representing Peterborough, missed a golden opportunity, blazing his shot over from 12 yards. He was a constant menace throughout the first half, coming close with another effort that forced Carlisle’s goalkeeper, Tomas Holy, into a crucial save. Ephron Mason-Clark also tested Holy with a low shot, which the keeper impressively tipped onto the post.
However, it was Ronnie Edwards who broke the deadlock for Peterborough, 16 minutes from time. Powering a header home from an inviting free-kick by Joel Randall, it seemed Peterborough were on their way to taking all three points back to Cambridgeshire. But football, as they say, is a game of two halves, and sometimes, a game of the final few minutes.
Carlisle, not to be outdone and spurred on by their passionate home crowd, found their hero in Jordan Gibson. His long-range effort, which took a deflection, beat Peterborough’s Nicholas Bilokapic, ensuring the spoils were shared. It was a moment that epitomised the spirit of Carlisle, who, despite being on the back foot for large parts of the game, never gave up.
In conclusion, this was a game that had everything – missed chances, great goalkeeping, and late drama. Both teams will feel they could have taken all three points, but in the end, a draw was a fair result.
Charlton Athletic 4-1 Exeter City
The Valley was alive with the sound of victory as Charlton Athletic secured their third consecutive home league win, a feat they hadn’t achieved since December 2021. The Addicks put on a dominant display, brushing aside Exeter City with a convincing 4-1 scoreline.
The game, however, didn’t start in Charlton’s favour. Reece Cole’s sublime pass in the 23rd minute found James Scott, who made no mistake in putting the Grecians ahead. But Charlton, showing the resilience they’ve displayed since Michael Appleton took the reins, found their equaliser just before half-time. Corey Blackett-Taylor’s strike, following a Chuks Aneke header that ricocheted off the crossbar, ensured the teams went into the break level.
The second half saw Charlton turn the screw. Awarded a penalty in the 65th minute after Tennai Watson was fouled, Aneke’s initial effort was thwarted by Exeter’s keeper, Viljami Sinisalo. However, Alfie May was on hand to put the rebound into the net. Matters worsened for Exeter when their captain, Will Aimson, was shown a straight red card for a reckless challenge on May.
Charlton capitalised on their numerical advantage. Substitute Miles Leaburn found the net in the 79th minute, and May added another, his shot finding the top left corner after some brilliant play by Blackett-Taylor.
In summary, while Exeter showed glimpses of promise, Charlton’s determination and quality shone through. The Addicks will be hoping to carry this momentum forward, while Exeter will need to regroup and address their defensive frailties.
Oxford United 3-0 Shrewsbury Town
In a riveting encounter at The Kassam Stadium, Oxford United showcased their dominance with a 3-0 victory over Shrewsbury Town. This marked their fourth consecutive league win, a testament to their rising form and confidence.
The match’s first breakthrough came from Fin Stevens, the on-loan Brentford right-back. Stevens volleyed a brilliant shot into the net in the 17th minute, capitalising on a weak attempt by keeper Marko Marosi to fend off Greg Leigh’s cross. This goal not only marked Stevens’ first for Oxford but also set the tone for the rest of the match.
Shrewsbury’s woes deepened in the second half when Joe Anderson was shown the red card, reducing them to 10 men. Anderson’s dismissal came after he fouled Stevens for the second time in quick succession. Oxford didn’t waste any time capitalising on their numerical advantage. Ciaron Brown found the net in the 60th minute, punishing Shrewsbury’s inability to clear Cameron Brannagan’s free-kick.
The final nail in Shrewsbury’s coffin came in stoppage time when Leigh fired into an empty net, capitalising on a blunder by Marosi. Throughout the match, Oxford displayed superior ball possession and attacking prowess, with Marosi being constantly tested by the likes of Brannagan and Marcus McGuane.
Portsmouth 2-1 Wycombe Wanderers
Fratton Park witnessed a nail-biting encounter between Portsmouth and Wycombe Wanderers, with the home side clinching a 2-1 victory in dramatic fashion.
Portsmouth, leading the League One table, were keen to extend their unbeaten run. They introduced Chelsea loanee Tino Anjorin to the starting lineup, replacing the injured Marlon Pack. However, the first half proved challenging for Pompey. Despite their efforts, they found themselves trailing at half-time. Wycombe’s skipper, Josh Scowen, managed to outmanoeuvre two defenders and steer the ball into the net in the 22nd minute, following an inswinging corner from Luke Leahy.
The second half painted a different picture. Portsmouth, with renewed vigour, equalised in the 58th minute. Colby Bishop was the man of the moment, stabbing home a cross from Abu Kamara, who had earlier missed a golden opportunity.
The climax of the match was nothing short of cinematic. Conor Shaughnessy, deep into injury time, rose to the occasion and nodded home the winner from a Jack Sparkes cross. This last-minute header not only secured three points for Portsmouth but also sent the Fratton Park faithful into euphoria.
