AFC Wimbledon manager Johnnie Jackson could not contain his emotion following a dramatic added time winner against MK Dons earlier this afternoon.
The rivalry between the pair needs no introduction, and the highly anticipated clash at Plough Lane lived up to its pre-match expectations. It was a fairly even encounter, although the home crowd will feel that they had the better opportunities.
The Dons have struggled for form in recent weeks, leaving them off the pace in the race to secure a play-off place. However, the visitors began the day in fifth and look good value to earn a spot in the top seven.
With so much riding on the fixture, it was no surprise to see the game looking to be heading to a goalless draw. Substitute Ronan Curtis had other ideas though, pouncing on a loose ball in the box as MK Dons failed to clear their lines to stroke home a 94th minute winner.
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It was a goal which sparked fierce celebrations and moved the Wombles to within four points of seventh-placed Gillingham. Following the game, Jackson revealed it’s the best feeling he has had in football. Speaking to official club media, the 41-year-old said:
“I can’t put it into words. It’s the highs and lows of football. Today is a reminder of why we love it, why we do it. Personally that’s the best feeling I’ve had in the game. It’s not about me today, it’s about Wimbledon. This football club has waited a long time for that moment. We were magnificent.
“The performance was outstanding on the pitch, in the stands. Behind the scenes, how hard everyone has worked knowing we had a big game – to win it like that, you couldn’t write it or make it up.
“We’ve got Trevor Williams and Robin Bedford who have been here since the start, they’re part of what we do. Today’s for our supporters.”
Continuing, the ex-Charlton Athletic boss stated his reasons for starting matchwinner Curtis on the bench:
“He was desperate to start and he probably had the hump with me that he didn’t. We timed it well with him.
“I felt it was a game for impact from him. We know the quality he’s got. When a chance like that pops up, there’s no one you’d rather have on it. I’m buzzing for him and all the players.
“They were outstanding and they left it all out there. That’s the lads on the pitch, the lads on the bench and the lads in the stands who weren’t involved.”
Finally, Jackson struggled to hide his emotions, something he was happy to put into words:
“I’m a bit emotional to be honest, it’ll take a while to set in but that’s what football does to you.”
Wimbledon will hope to record back-to-back victories on Tuesday night when they host strugglers Grimsby Town. Meanwhile, MK Dons travel to league leaders Mansfield Town.
Writer’s View
If there was ever a game to get your season back on track, it was this one. Johnnie Jackson will still harbour ambitions of securing a play-off place, with this victory will do them the world of good.
League Two remains incredibly tight and Wimbledon are still well in contention. They will fancy their chances of building on this afternoon when they tackle Grimsby on Tuesday, and following today’s antics, few would bet against them.
Head of Writing
