Championship Review: 8 August

Blackburn Rovers 1-2 Wolverhampton Wanderers 

Wolves took the spoils in controversial circumstances after winning by the one goal at Ewood Park. Benik Afobe, who netted 19 times whilst on loan at MK Dons and a further 13 after his January transfer to Wolves last season, gave the visitors a first half advantage, before Craig Conway found an equaliser with five first half minutes remaining. But then controversy as Dave Edwards appeared to handle the ball as the midfielder scored, but the goal was allowed to stand. Jordan Rhodes hit the post after a 25 yard effort, but Kenny Jackett’s men held on to claim all three points.

Bolton Wanderers 0-0 Derby County 

Paul Clement’s first game in charge of Derby ended in a goalless draw against Bolton at the Macron Stadium. Johnny Russell hit the bar for the Rams, but Bolton hit the woodwork three times through Emile Heskey and Gary Madine respectively as both sides tried to break the deadlock. Bolton midfielder Jay Spearing was sent off with five minutes remaining after picking up a second yellow for simulation which looked a tad harsh. A good start for both sides, but both will be in search of a win next weekend.

Brentford 2-2 Ipswich Town 

Brentford looked down and out after 90 minutes, finding themselves two goals down against Mick McCarthy’s Ipswich, but two late goals earned the Bees a point. Kevin Bru gave the visitors the lead on half time with a speculative scissor kick, before Ryan Fraser tapped in a second. But late drama at Griffin Park as Andre Gray pulled one back two minutes into stoppage time before six minutes into stoppage time, defender James Tarkowski found the equaliser, earning manager Marinus Dijkhuizen a point in his first game in charge.

Charlton Athletic 2-0 QPR 

QPR began life back in the Championship the way they ended their Premier League tenure, in defeat. Half time substitute Tony Watt gave the Addicks the lead seven minutes into the second half before Morgan Fox doubled Guy Luzon’s side lead with a 20 yard strike. Charlie Austin, amid speculation with a move to the Premier League, hit the post, but it was another miserable afternoon for Chris Ramsey and his side.

Hull City 2-0 Huddersfield 

Hull City were the only relegated side to record a win as they beat Huddersfield at the KC Stadium. Sam Clucas gave the Tigers the lead shortly before the break, pouncing on a rebound after his first effort was saved, before Arsenal loanee Chuba Akpom doubled the hosts lead midway through the second half. A positive start to life in the Championship as Steve Bruce looks to make an immediate return to the Premier League with the Tigers.