KIERAN Agard fired a penalty and teed up Ryan Harley's strike as MK Dons kick-started their promotion drive with a 2-1 win at Oldham.

Dan Gardner pegged a goal back for Oldham, but the visitors prevailed, with Harley notching a debut effort after his summer switch from Exeter.

Otis Khan bagged a brace as Mansfield overwhelmed Newport County 3-0 to start their campaign in style.

Nottingham Forest loan striker Tyler Walker - the 21-year-old son of former England defender Des - claimed a goal and an assist to boot, on his Mansfield bow.

Former Bradford man Nicky Law helped last season's beaten play-off finalists Exeter see off Carlisle 3-1.

Jonathan Forte and replacement Tristan Abrahams also found the target for the Grecians, with Richie Bennett's header scant consolation for the visitors.

Kevin Nolan's much-fancied Notts County were held to a frustrating goalless draw at home to Colchester, while Forest Green Rovers ran riot at Grimsby.

The Mariners took the early lead through Mitch Rose's penalty only to capitulate to a 4-1 loss, with Christian Doidge bagging a late brace.

Carl Winchester started Rovers' charge, before Danny Collins put through his own net for a stunned Grimsby.

Midfielder James Jones claimed a hat-trick as Crewe thumped Morecambe 6-0 at Gresty Road.

Alex Nicholls bagged a brace on his debut after his summer switch from Barnet, with Chris Porter also on target with a header.

Promoted Tranmere secured a fine 2-2 draw at Stevenage, courtesy of two goals from striker James Norwood.

Jimmy Ball and Joey Byrom hit the net for Stevenage.

Tom Pope struck twice as Port Vale cruised past Cambridge 3-0, with debutant Ricky Miller firing home from a free-kick.

Lincoln sneaked to a 1-0 win at Northampton thanks to Matt Green's goal, while Gold Omotayo's late effort sealed a 1-0 victory for Bury over nine-man Yeovil. The visitors had both Tom James and Jordan Green sent off.

Ollie Palmer's header earned Crawley a 1-0 win at Cheltenham.