With the table starting to shape up at both ends, there was a chance for the early pace-setters to solidify their place at the top while those at the other end of the standings were hoping to clamber up the league. But what happened in the latest instalment of third tier action? Scroll down and click through the pages to see how the Black Cats’ rivals fared:
5. Fleetwood Town 2-1 Rochdale
On the end of some harsh results in recent weeks, Rochdale took the lead through Rekeil Pyke - only for Joey Barton’s side to draw level as Danny Andrew fired home. Ched Evans then stuck three minutes from time as the Cod Army sealed a dramatic triumph. | Getty Images Photo: Alex Livesey
6. Gillingham 0-1 Ipswich Town
The Tractor Boys knew a win would take them top - and they delivered against the Gills. Summer Kane Vincent-Young was on the scoresheet in the first-half in what proved to be the game’s only goal. | Getty Images Photo: Jack Thomas
7. Lincoln City 0-6 Oxford United
This wasn’t the start Michael Appleton wanted, with the Imps’ new boss - who watched on from the stand - seeing his new side torn apart by one of his former employers. Tairqe Fosu bagged a hat-trick with Jamie Mackie, Matt Taylor and James Henry also netting. | Getty Images Photo: Laurence Griffiths
8. MK Dons 0-1 Southend United
Ex-Celtic and Manchester United striker Henrik Larsson was an interested observer as he continues to be linked with the Southend job - and saw his prospective new side take an early lead through Charlie Kelman. | Getty Images Photo: Pete Norton