AFC Wimbledon manager Johnnie Jackson has claimed their play-off final second leg against Notts County is the ‘biggest game that the new Plough Lane has seen’ ahead of the clash tomorrow afternoon.
The Dons took a 1-0 lead away from Meadow Lane thanks to a second-half goal from Riley Harbottle, which puts them in a strong position going into the second leg.
Excitement Yet a Sense of Calmness
Speaking to the South London Press, the 42-year-old claims that the clash should pique the interest of fans.
“This is why we do it – to be involved in these games. It has taken me a while to get to this stage with the club. The club has not been here for a long time – so we need to embrace it.
“Arguably it is the biggest game that the new Plough Lane has seen. I can’t wait.
“It is probably going to be a full house. It is going to be bouncing. Notts are going to bring a load. It’s going to be a special atmosphere down there Saturday.
“We need to thrive on it which, in the main, we have done this season. We have had some big wins there and some big performances. One more of them and we’ll be there.”
Despite the occasion, the former Charlton Athletic manager is still focused on the task at hand. They are further helped by the absence of key County players, such as strike duo David McGoldrick and Alassana Jatta, who miss out due to injury and suspension.
“We’ve got to be calm and composed as well because there is always chaos in these play-off games and you’ve got to keep your head when it is going on.
“There is loads of football left but we’re in a good position. We have to go out to win it.”
Writer’s View
The Dons are in an extremely strong position going into the second leg at lunchtime tomorrow, but they still need to be able to do the business on the pitch to make it to Wembley. With the home advantage behind them, Jackson’s side can be confident, but not cocky, and can also enjoy the occasion playing in such a big game.
Their opponents, the away side, have all the work to do, but cannot be underestimated, even without their two star strikers. Looking back at the first leg, they certainly threatened Owen Goodman’s goal, with Goodman and his defence being called into action multiple times to preserve their clean sheet.
