A number of highly-fancied teams came unstuck, but there were some dominant showings nevertheless. In the first installment of a new weekly feature, we take a deeper look at the performances and trends to establish who is on the way up, and who is badly losing momentum. The first leader in our League One power rankings is a side who have spent well and are led by a very familiar face….
1. 23. Bolton Wanderers
To even be on the pitch was something of a victory after a torrid summer, and some late signings saw Bolton field a stronger team than perhaps anticipated. Still, a comfortable defeat underlined the scale of the challenge in clawing back those deducted points and fighting for survival. Photo: Gareth Copley
2. 22. Bristol Rovers
Comfortably beaten at Blackpool and with defensive errors that will trouble former centre-back Graham Coughlan. Above all else, raised major questions about their ability to score without Jonson Clarke-Harris, who they rely on heavily and who is currently injury. Photo: Alex Burstow
3. 20. Accrington Stanley
Home form will define Accrington Stanley's season and Lincoln will take points off most teams at Sincil Bank, but to be so comfortably outplayed and to give up so many chances is nevertheless a big concern. Photo: Nathan Stirk
4. 18. Southend United
Always looked like a tricky fixture away to Coventry City, but Kevn Bond took heart from a decent showing in the second half. Photo: Stu Forster