As always, the opening weekend of The Championship lived up to expectation. The first round delivered some thrilling matches which gave an insight into what to expect moving forward into the next round of fixtures and beyond.
Home advantage was key. This weekend saw six sides prevail at their respective home grounds, with notable victories for QPR and a new look Wolves side.
QPR got off to a flyer in their opener at Loftus Road, dominating a Reading side who may still have last season’s play-off disappointment replaying in the back of their minds.
Promotion hopefuls Aston Villa once again fell short of expectation as they struggled to capitalise against a resilient Hull City.
While a bizarre set of events took place at Craven Cottage involving Norwich striker Nelson Oliveira.
Here is the best and worst from the opening round of Championship fixtures as we settle in to another action-packed season.
THE GOOD
Bailey Wright, a true captain’s debut
A perfect start for the Australian defender. Making his debut as captain for the Robins, Bailey Wright was instrumental in his side’s convincing 3-1 win over Barnsley.
Top of the table after round one, his side put on an impressive display as they dominated all areas of the park.
Wonderful Wolves
After flexing their financial muscle in the transfer market, Wolves went a small way to justify their spending by grabbing the three points over Middlesbrough at Molineux.
If they can keep up that level of performance the sky is the limit as they aim to return to England’s top flight.