Sunderland were one of a number of sides to take a break this weekend due to international call-ups, but there were seven fixtures played across the division and some eye-catching results involving sides looking to challenge with the Black Cats at the top. Here, Phil Smith takes a look at the key winners and losers from the last couple of weeks, starting with the fifth matchday of the season, as Sunderland beat AFC Wimbledon 3-1….
5. 19. Tranmere (-1)
Wins have been hard to come by but they are showing fight, rescuing a point despite being two goals behind against Gillingham. A draw away at Rotherham was a very good result and they were decent value for it, too. Photo: Charlie Crowhurst
6. 18. Oxford (-1)
Their start to the season has been tough to judge, with some strong performances but few results to back it up. Scoring three against the impressive Coventry City underlined their potential, but that draw was preceded by a heavy and unexpected defeat to Bristol Rovers. THey seem unlikely to sit so low in the table for long but they are in a need of a result sooner rather than later. Photo: Alex Burstow
7. 17. Accrington Stanley (+4)
A disappointing defeat away at Fleetwood left John Coleman's side in trouble, but they have bounced back very well since then and got their first win in impressive fashion against MK Dons. A point away at Bristol Rovers was more than creditable given that they played much of the second half with ten, scoring three overall and creating plenty of chances. Photo: Nathan Stirk
8. 16. Rotherham United (-7)
Suffered a disappointing defeat away at Doncaster, having led until just after the hour mark. Shipped a 95th-minute equaliser to Tranmere Rovers to drop two points in that contest, meaning they are struggling to produce any real momentum. One of the sides most affected by the fixture crisis earlier in the season, they'll be looking forward to more regular action to try and build some rhythm. Photo: George Wood