Drama, Goals and Big Shifts – EFL League One Round 33 In Review: Saturday's Matches As They Happened

Promotion Race Tightens and Relegation Fears Deepen – EFL League One Round 33 In Review: Saturday's Matches As They Happened

There was no shortage of excitement across League One this weekend as sides jockeyed for promotion, play‑off spots and vital points in the congested middle of the table. From high‑scoring thrillers to late winners and sides continuing impressive runs, it felt like the division reminded everyone just how unpredictable it can be.

With every point now carrying weight and no game truly a “gimme”, Football Park are here to break down all the key action from today’s fixtures.

Goals Galore and Standout Performances

Stockport County 4-2 Wigan Athletic

This was laugh in the face of early panic stuff from Stockport. Wigan stormed out the blocks, and Jack Taylor’s quickfire double inside the opening 11 minutes had every neutral thinking this would be a routine away day. But Stockport’s character showed, Abdul Sidibeh pulled one back before half‑time, giving them hope and momentum.

The second half was a war of attrition. Wigan’s early edge disappeared after a red card, and with stoppage‑time ticking away, Kian Wootton delivered two late strikes (90+2’, 90+10’) to complete an unbelievable comeback. This wasn’t just a win, it was a message. Stockport have fire in their belly and a knack for drama that keeps them dangerous in every game.

Wigan forward Maleace Asamoah was sent off for this challenge during the side's 4-2 loss to Stockport 🟥😬 pic.twitter.com/FrfoAhsBbl

— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) February 21, 2026

Hat‑Trick Hero in Six‑Goal Shootout

Peterborough United 3-3 Exeter City

If this was a preview for a play‑off final, fans would probably pay extra for the ticket. Exeter were irresistible at times, Jayden Wareham absolutely bossing this one with a stunning hat‑trick in six crazy minutes (46’, 52’, 54’).

Posh refused to roll over though. They grabbed one in the first half and then showed grit and determination to keep taking the game to Exeter right until the end. The tension, the momentum swings, the constant feeling of “something’s about to happen”. This was pure entertainment from start to finish. Both sides will be disappointed not to take the three points, but neutrals absolutely adored this.

Manager Luke Williams spoke to Posh+ following the 3-3 draw with Exeter City and gave his verdict on an eventful afternoon. He spoke about the character of his side, the first start for Patryk Sykut and more.

Post-Match interviews brought to you by EMR Renders and Wallcoatings… pic.twitter.com/T4xovojkgx

— Peterborough United (@theposh) February 21, 2026

Big Results in the Promotion Hunt

Plymouth Argyle 5-2 Cardiff City

From the first whistle, Plymouth were electric. Tolaj opened the scoring early and constantly caused problems for Cardiff’s defence. Lorent Tolaj added a penalty, and the hosts’ attacking movement created space and opportunities that Cardiff simply couldn’t handle. Cardiff fought back to grab a couple of goals but were always second best.

Plymouth’s clinical finishing and relentless tempo made the difference. The home crowd roared with every strike and the energy never dipped. This wasn’t just a win; it was a statement that Plymouth are serious about a top-six push, and Cardiff will be left frustrated that their early promise couldn’t match the hosts’ efficiency.

👏 @LorentTolaj moves to 18 for the season! pic.twitter.com/ws21lIRiz0

— Plymouth Argyle FC (@Argyle) February 21, 2026

Doncaster Rally to Claim Late Victory

Rotherham United 1-2 Doncaster Rovers

Rotherham looked comfortable early, taking the lead and controlling possession, but Doncaster refused to fold. They equalised soon after the break and kept probing, forcing mistakes that they capitalised on for the winner. The turnaround showed resilience and belief in Doncaster’s game plan. Rotherham battled, but their sloppy moments and missed chances cost them dearly.

This result is more than three points; it could be a turning point for Doncaster as they aim for the play-offs, while Rotherham will reflect on opportunities lost after a strong start.

...but derby day winner limbs are a different level#DRFC pic.twitter.com/MgmTJY9q38

— Doncaster Rovers FC (@drfc_official) February 21, 2026

Wycombe’s Composure Wins the Day

Wycombe Wanderers 3-1 Stevenage

Wycombe started brightly, pressing high and moving the ball quickly. Stevenage managed to create chances, but Wycombe’s organisation and attacking threat proved decisive. The away side fought back and equalised before half time, changing the home sides momentum. Despite pulling one back, the visitors were unable to maintain momentum.

Wycombe controlled the final minutes, scored a second and then a third, and sealed a win that demonstrates their ability to finish games under pressure. This was a performance of efficiency and composure against a side that tried hard but could not match the hosts’ quality in key moments.

FT: Wycombe Wanderers 3-1 Stevenage.

Woodrow, Lowe and Junior with the goals (all terrific goals to), as Wycombe make it three wins from three at home.

Your thoughts?#Chairboys

— James Richings 🇬🇧 (@James_BFP) February 21, 2026

Wimbledon Show Character in Convincing Win

AFC Wimbledon 3-1 Bradford City

Wimbledon set the tone early and dominated possession, moving the ball with purpose and creating multiple scoring opportunities. Bradford battled back, pulling a goal back to make the contest competitive, but Wimbledon responded with composure, seeing out the match professionally in ultimately a settled game. The win showcased Wimbledon's tactical awareness, resilience, and attacking threat. Bradford showed fight, but the home side controlled the rhythm and deserved the three points, sending their fans home happy.

⏰ FULL-TIME: AFC Wimbledon 3-1 Bradford City - WHAT A PERFORMANCE! 😍#AFCW 🟡🔵 pic.twitter.com/PePG36V2w0

— AFC Wimbledon (@AFCWimbledon) February 21, 2026

High-Scoring Thriller Ends Evenly

Bolton Wanderers 2-2 Blackpool

Bolton took the lead and looked likely to control the match, but Blackpool matched their intensity and forced a draw. Both teams attacked with purpose and created high-quality chances, producing a goal-fest for the neutral. Bolton threatened late, but Blackpool’s resilience ensured they walked away with a deserved point. This was a match where neither side surrendered, showing League One’s competitiveness and unpredictability, and leaving fans entertained until the final whistle.

FULL TIME

Bolton Wanderers 2-2 Blackpool#BWFC #UTMP pic.twitter.com/0TBfyOyjIb

— Burnden Aces (@BurndenAces) February 21, 2026

Huddersfield Edge Out a Tough Contest

Huddersfield Town 2-1 Barnsley

Huddersfield came out determined and made the most of their attacking opportunities. Barnsley hit first, finding a goal and keeping the game alive, but Huddersfield regained control with a composed double. The visitors never gave up, but Huddersfield’s sharper movement and clinical finishing won the day. The win gives them momentum in a tight league race, while Barnsley will rue missed chances and defensive lapses. A gritty, entertaining match full of tension and decisive moments. Now I have a soft spot for Barnsley, having spent time working with the club, but this season really has been disappointing...

Completing the turnaround! 💪#htafc pic.twitter.com/UnX0xN3kHN

— Huddersfield Town (@htafc) February 21, 2026

Luton Hold On for a Draw

Luton Town 1-1 Burton Albion

Luton looked to dominate early, testing Burton’s defence and keeper with multiple chances. Burton responded patiently, absorbing pressure and countering effectively. Luton scored first, but Burton fought back and equalised late in the game. Both teams had chances to win it in the closing minutes, but the draw reflected a hard-fought, evenly matched contest. This was a game of discipline, resilience, and tactical awareness, giving both sides a point that will keep them competitive in the mid-table scramble. The Luton manager wasn't in the greatest of spirits at full time though...

The manager of Luton Town Football Club, how far have we fallen pic.twitter.com/k9LiZvFo3q

— LTFCShirts (@LTFCShirts) February 21, 2026

Lincoln City Show Efficiency on the Road

Mansfield Town 0-2 Lincoln City

Lincoln controlled this match from start to finish. They scored early and managed the game well, preventing Mansfield from creating significant chances. The second goal put the result beyond doubt, allowing Lincoln to play with confidence. Mansfield tried to fight back but were unable to break through.

Lincoln’s organised defence and sharp attack made the difference, delivering a win that strengthens their promotion ambitions while leaving Mansfield to regroup after a frustrating day.

📈 WWDWWWDWDWWWWDWW pic.twitter.com/PWUZ4fLi8J

— Lincoln City FC 🇺🇦 (@LincolnCity_FC) February 21, 2026

Orient Take Early Control

Northampton Town 1 2 Leyton Orient

Leyton Orient started strong, taking the lead in the 10th minute through Darnell Ballard, a clinical finish that set the tone. They doubled the advantage just after halftime with Jack Morris, punishing a defensive lapse from Northampton and putting the visitors firmly in control.

Eaves pulled one back for the home side in the 60th minute, giving the crowd hope, but Northampton struggled to convert pressure into chances. Orient defended well, stayed disciplined, and managed the game intelligently. A professional performance from the away side that earns three points and keeps them moving up the table.

GET. IN. THERE. 😍#LOFC #OneOrient pic.twitter.com/0EGrlWgBIb

— Leyton Orient FC (@leytonorientfc) February 21, 2026

Late Drama Sees Both Sides Share Points

Port Vale 1-1 Reading

Reading took the lead in the 39th minute with a composed penalty from Liam Wing, putting the visitors ahead before halftime. Port Vale pressed for an equaliser throughout the second half but struggled to break down Reading’s disciplined defence. Just when it looked like the points would stay with the visitors, Mohanad Sherif popped up in the 96th minute to snatch a dramatic late equaliser. Both teams will feel they could have taken all three points, but the draw reflects a tense, hard-fought contest. Port Vale showed grit to salvage a point, while Reading will regret not holding on.

A first Vale goal for Martin Sherif to secure a point 🤠#PVFC | #PVFC150 pic.twitter.com/KZrlrtQCi6

— Port Vale Football Club (@OfficialPVFC) February 21, 2026