AFC Wimbledon manager Johnnie Jackson expressed frustration with referee Ben Atkinson following his team’s late 2-2 comeback against Accrington Stanley in League Two.
The Dons scored two dramatic goals in the final moments to rescue a point at the Cherry Red Records Stadium.
A Match Full of Twists
Accrington appeared to have the game wrapped up after second-half goals from Nelson Khumbeni and Dara Costelloe. Khumbeni broke the deadlock in the 58th minute with a brilliant solo effort, and Costelloe doubled the lead shortly after.
However, Wimbledon refused to back down. Alistair Smith pulled one back in the 89th minute before James Tilley unleashed a 25-yard thunderbolt deep into stoppage time, sending the home crowd into raptures.
Tempers Boil Over
Emotions ran high at full-time, culminating in Accrington defender Farrend Rawson receiving a red card for his involvement in a post-match altercation. The incident followed heated exchanges on the pitch, with players and staff from both sides visibly agitated.
“It’s difficult for them because they have conceded really late, but I think both teams had gripes with the referee. They should be down to 10 men [earlier] and we should have had a penalty,” said Jackson.
Mixed Reactions from Managers
Jackson commended his side’s resilience but maintained his frustrations over key refereeing decisions. He pointed to a missed penalty and what he felt was an earlier red card-worthy challenge by Stanley as pivotal moments.
Meanwhile, Accrington manager John Doolan defended Rawson, attributing the defender’s reaction to provocation by Alistair Smith. However, he refused to blame the match officials for his team’s inability to hold on for the win.
“We made mistakes which is football, that is what happens. It is how we react, and we reacted accordingly and got a point. We could have got three points, we didn’t, we lick our wounds and we go again,” said Doolan.
League Implications
The result leaves AFC Wimbledon just one point outside the play-off spots, with games in hand providing hope for a promotion push. Accrington, meanwhile, will be disappointed to let a two-goal lead slip but remain focused on bouncing back in their next fixture.
Writer’s View
The late drama at the Cherry Red Records Stadium highlighted the intensity and unpredictability of League Two football. Both managers had valid grievances, but credit must go to Wimbledon for their fighting spirit. For Accrington, the challenge will be learning to close out games when in control. This match serves as a reminder that momentum can shift in an instant, especially in the lower leagues.
Founder and Editor-in-Chief at The Real EFL, Gary is a passionate Lincoln City fan with extensive content creation across the Championship and EFL. He also shares expert football betting tips.
