On Boxing Day, English football captivated fans with thrilling league matches, showcasing stunning goals, late drama, and fierce rivalries across the Sky Bet League One and League Two. One of the standout performances came from Charlton Athletic, who secured back-to-back victories after defeating Cambridge United 2-1 at The Valley. The Addicks enjoyed the perfect start as Tyreece Campbell netted less than 40 seconds after the kick-off, tapping home from close range following Macaulay Gillesphey's flick on.
Charlton doubled their lead 20 minutes later, with Miles Leaburn heading past Cambridge's keeper Vicente Reyes. Despite claiming only five points on the road this season, Cambridge clawed back with Elias Kachunga converting from close range shortly after the break. They nearly leveled the match, hitting the woodwork through Sullay Kaikai, but Charlton held firm, with midfielder Luke Berry testing Reyes on two occasions.
Meanwhile, Forest Green Rovers found themselves kept at bay by Tamworth after Dan Creaney's late equaliser salvaged a 1-1 draw. The Rovers, hoping to ascend to the top of the National League, struck first through Kyle McAllister's stunning long-range effort. Nevertheless, they were left to rue their missed chances when Creaney headed home from Tom Tonks' long throw just at the death, leaving Rovers third on the table.
Grimsby Town also enjoyed success, notching their first-ever win against Harrogate by 2-1. Evan Khouri opened the scoring with his first professional goal, redirecting Jayden Luker’s cross. Jason Dadi Svanthorsson doubled the lead with finesse, lifting the ball over Harrogate's goalkeeper James Belshaw. Although Duke-Mckenna pulled one back with a direct free-kick, Grimsby held on for the victory.
AFC Wimbledon came agonizingly close to securing three points at home against Swindon Town, but settled for a 1-1 draw. Following Harry Smith’s opening goal for Swindon, James Tilley equalised for the Dons after showing impressive athleticism to convert Josh Neufville's cross. Despite dominating late phases of the match with opportunities, Wimbledon couldn't secure the winner due to a disallowed goal for foul play.
At the other end of the league spectrum, Cheltenham Town pulled off a remarkable comeback against promotion-chasing Crewe Alexandra, winning 2-1 thanks to Joel Colwill's brace. Colwill's goals came after Jack Lankester had put Crewe ahead with his impressive strike, providing significant breathing room for the Robins who had been on the hunt for points to guarantee safety this season.
Morecambe also gained traction in the relegation dogfight with a decisive 1-0 victory over Carlisle United, who played with ten men following Jon Mellish's sending off. Gwion Edwards struck the game's only goal, ensuring Morecambe moved important steps away from the relegation zone.
Lastly, Salford City netted their third consecutive win, dominating Barrow with a convincing 3-0 victory. Goals from Luke Garbutt and Tyrese Fornah showcased Salford's prowess, with Kylian Kouassi's late goal punctuating their offensive display. Fornah, who had scored, received his marching orders with a second booking, adding some drama to what was otherwise a seamless performance.
With exciting plays and high stakes, this Boxing Day delivered significant narratives for fans, highlighting the competitiveness of the EFL and setting the stage for intense fixtures to follow as teams strive for their respective goals.
