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….
9. 15. Shrewsbury Town (-8)
Would have been satisfied with a point and a clean sheet against a dangerous Burton Albion side, but were heavily beaten by an Ipswich Town team starting to look like very strong automatic promotion contenders. They've been inconsistent so far thsi season but will hope that deadline day additions Jason Cummings and Callum Lang can improve them in front of goal. Photo: Catherine Ivill
10. 14. MK Dons (-1)
Thumped by Peterborough and then suffered a surprise defeat against Accrington Stanley. A win over AFC Wimbledon was much needed and means the table looks relatively good for them at this early stage. Photo: Pete Norton
11. 13. Portsmouth (+3)
Only played once in a frustrating few weeks, securing a creditable draw against Blackpool. Has been a challenging start to the season, with Kenny Jackett trying to produce a settled team after the profile of his squad changed over the summer. In one of the more interesting stories around the division, fan favourites Brett Pitman and Gareth Evans were stripped of the captain and vice-captain roles. Never a good look so early in the season and while their position in the table surely remains false, they can't afford too many more dropped points. Photo: Bryn Lennon
12. 12. Bristol Rovers (+3)
Comfortably beaten by Burton but are picking up points at regular enough intervals to climb well clear bottom of the three. Crucially, Jonson Clarke-Harris just keeps scoring goals and as long as that remains the case, their midtable place is relatively secure. Photo: Alex Davidson