With the league table starting to take shape, there were some key results at both ends of the table - while one side were in cup action. But how did Sunderlad’s rivals fare, and who is sitting pretty at this early stage of the 2019/20 campaign? Scroll down and click through the pages as we round-up the best of the day’s action in the third tier:
5. Lincoln City 0-1 Bristol Rovers
Life without the Cowley brothers started badly for Lincoln, who fell to defeat at Sincil Bank. The Imps - who are yet to appoint a new management team - conceded a second half penalty which was converted by Jonson Clarke-Harris. Photo: Ross Kinnaird
6. Blackpool 0-3 MK Dons
Simon Grayson’s Seasiders were brought crashing down to earth by a clinical MK Dons side - who earned a well-deserved victory courtesy of goals from Russell Martin, Jordan Houghton and David Kasumu. Photo: Mark Runnacles
7. Accrington Stanley 1-3 Sunderland
After falling behind to an early strike from Jordan Clark, Sunderland netted three in quick succession as Lynden Gooch, Aiden McGeady and Marc McNulty finding the net. The result served as a reminder to the rest of League One that the Black Cats won’t lie down in the promotion race. Photo: FRANK REID 2019
8. Peterborough United 6-0 Rochdale
Building on their win against the Black Cats a fortnight ago, Peterborough continued their fine form with a thumping win over the usually impressive Dale. Ivan Toney netted a hat-trick while Marcus Maddison bagged a brace - Mo Eisa also on the scoresheet. Photo: FRANK REID