Defeats for promotion rivals as Portsmouth are handed big Plymouth incentive after Sunderland and Peterborough results

And the outcome of the third-tier fixtures means Kenny Jackett’s men can close in on the leaders and move up to third with victory at Plymouth on Monday night.

Promotion rivals Sunderland and Peterborough were both defeated in the fixtures which took place, with two matches postponed because of international call-ups.

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The Black Cats fell to a 2-1 home defeat to MK Dons, who have been struggling for much of the season.

Cameron Jerome and Scott Fraser got the goals after Max Power had put the home side in front at the Stadium of Light.

And there was defeat for leaders Peterborough, who went down to a 2-0 reverse against Crewe at Gresty Road.

The Posh remain top, however, but Hull move up to second after a 2-0 success over lowly Burton.

Elsewhere, Shrewsbury drew with Swindon 3-3, Accrington beat Northampton 1-0 and Fleetwood moved one place below Pompey in eighth with a 4-1 success over Bristol Rovers.

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