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….
17. 7. Sunderland (-4)
An emphatic win over AFC Wimbledon was followed by a superb cup win over Burnley, making it five on the bounce in all competitions. A heavy defeat to Peterborough was a bitter pill to swallow before an extended break, though the potential for some hugely exciting off-field news could give the club a major lift before the trip to Accrington this weekend. Photo: FRANK REID
18. 5. Fleetwood (+3)
Came through a tricky run of fixtures with two wins against Oxford and Accrington Stanley, and a defeat to Lincoln City. Will be happy enough with their start and the deadline day signing of Jimmy Dunne is a savvy one. Have had a good summer and a decent start to the campaign. Photo: Alex Livesey
19. 5. Peterborough United (+7)
Have roared into form after a shaky start to the season, scoring seven without reply against MK Dons and Sunderland. The diamond system that Darren Ferguson has settled on looks to have given his side a good balance, with dangerous attackers and an energetic midfield that can prevent them being overrun. Looking dangerous. Photo: FRANK REID
20. 4. Doncaster Rovers (+6)
Darren Moore is producing some impressive results. Wins over Lincoln and Rotherham have put them in an excellent position and their points-per-game ratio is now as good as anyone. It was a summer of transition but it cannot be overstated how important it was to keep hold of midfielder Ben Whiteman. A superb player who scored the crucial winner against Rotherham from the penalty spot. Photo: George Wood