Doncaster joins Cardiff at the top of League One after defeating Bradford. Huddersfield ascends to third place with a comeback win against Peterborough. Key League Two results include Swindon maintaining pace with a win over Barrow, and Walsall securing a victory against Chesterfield.
Doncaster Rovers delivered a resounding statement of intent in League One, dismantling Bradford City 3-1 to draw level on points with Cardiff City at the summit of the table. With Cardiff sidelined due to international call-ups, Doncaster seized their opportunity at the Eco-Power Stadium with clinical precision.
The Rovers' triumph was ignited by Luke Molyneux's early header, sending a wave of optimism through the home crowd. Bradford responded swiftly through Will Swan, but Doncaster's resolve remained unshaken. Jordan Gibson restored the lead, showcasing his flair and composure in front of goal. The veteran Billy Sharp, a seasoned campaigner with an eye for goal, extended the advantage, leaving Bradford reeling just before the interval.
Sharp's goal, a testament to his enduring quality, effectively sealed the victory for Doncaster. The second half saw Doncaster manage the game with maturity, denying Bradford any genuine opportunities to mount a comeback. The win propels Doncaster into a commanding position, signaling their ambition to challenge for promotion this season.
Meanwhile, Huddersfield Town showcased their promotion credentials with a gritty 3-2 comeback victory against Peterborough United. The Terriers demonstrated resilience and determination, overcoming an early setback to secure a crucial three points. Jimmy-Jay Morgan had thrust Peterborough into the lead early in the second half, threatening to derail Huddersfield's momentum. However, the Terriers responded emphatically.
Will Alves ignited the comeback, slotting home a close-range effort to restore parity. Herbie Kane then unleashed a deflected strike that found the back of the net, turning the tide in Huddersfield's favor. Joseph Taylor added a third goal in stoppage time, further cementing Huddersfield's ascendancy. Despite Cian Hayes pulling a goal back for Peterborough, the damage was done. Peterborough's woes deepened, marked by their sixth league defeat.
Bolton Wanderers snapped their streak of four consecutive draws, securing a comprehensive 3-0 victory over Wimbledon. The match was marred by disciplinary issues, with Wimbledon finishing the game with nine men. Marcus Browne and Joe Lewis both received marching orders in the second half, disrupting Wimbledon's rhythm and allowing Bolton to capitalize.
In a fiery encounter between Lincoln City and Wigan Athletic, both sides were reduced to ten men in a 2-2 draw at the LNER Stadium. Christian Saydee received a straight red card for Wigan, while Lincoln's Rob Street was dismissed for a second bookable offense.
Charlie Wellens etched his name into Leyton Orient folklore, striking a dramatic stoppage-time winner to secure a 3-2 victory at Port Vale. The defeat compounded Port Vale's struggles, marking their fourth consecutive loss.
Elsewhere, Rotherham United edged past Exeter City 1-0, Plymouth Argyle defeated Stockport County 4-2 at Home Park, and Wycombe Wanderers recorded a 2-0 win over Mansfield Town.
In League Two, Swindon Town maintained their impressive form, defeating Barrow 3-1 to keep pace at the top of the table. Aaron Drinan and Paul Glatzel found the net in the first half, while Princewill Ehibhatiomhan added a third before Lewis Shipley scored a late consolation for Barrow.
Walsall joined Swindon on 15 points after securing a 1-0 victory over Chesterfield, despite Charlie Lakin's dismissal in the second half.
Grimsby Town emerged victorious in a 3-2 goalfest against MK Dons. Kieran Green, Jaze Kabia, and Charles Vernam all scored in the opening half hour, but Jon Mellish's red card in the 36th minute threatened to derail Grimsby's efforts. Despite MK Dons fighting back with two goals after the break, Grimsby held on for the win.
Michael Mellon, on loan from Burnley, marked his debut with a goal as Oldham Athletic secured a 1-0 victory at Cambridge United.
Shrewsbury Town picked up their first away points of the season, coming from behind to win 3-1 at Barnet. Luke Thomas scored twice in the second half as Bristol Rovers held out for a 3-2 victory over Severnside rivals Newport at Rodney Parade.
Isaac Hutchinson's early free-kick secured a 1-0 win for Cheltenham Town over Accrington Stanley. Kyreece Lisbie's second-half header earned Colchester United a 1-1 draw with Crewe Alexandra. Crawley Town secured a 1-0 victory at Harrogate Town, despite Ryan Loft's late dismissal for the home side.
Notts County defeated Fleetwood Town 1-0, while Salford City defeated Tranmere Rovers 3-1.