Match and Player Ratings - No.2

Games Review

3 (0) Wimbledon v Accrington Stanley (3) 4

Monday 18th April 2022 - Kick-Off 3:00pm

League One

Pre-Game

I called the last game, well ahead of time I am calling this as a relegation party lets celebrate the fun we had in League One but we WILL be saying goodbye to tier three and hello tier four. The next point I will add is that the majority of us fans will be saying how we will be bouncing back and chasing a play-off place or better next season. I for one cannot see that happening and I think we will struggle to reach the heady heights of midtable. Don't get me wrong, I would be loved to be proven wrong but I haven't seen anything this season that would suggest anything more than another struggle all season.

Brief Summary of the match

Needing a seven goal shift plus results elsewhere to stay up. All results went our way so the Dons didn't turn up and found themselves 3-0 at half-time. Battled back with two goals, conceded another then grabbed another. They will call it a seven goal thriller I didn't see it that way. Going into a season on the back of a twenty-seven winless run the previous term sounds very worrying.

#Number Name - [Score] (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev [5]

Conceded 4 in this game

#5 – Will Nightingale [4]

Contributed to the awful first half performance of the team.

#10 - Ayoub Assal [7]

Had his hands full with the wingers and attackers all game and put in a real shift today. Worked his little socks off so to speak so again a generous seven from me.

#12 - Jack Rudoni [8]

One of the few consistent performers in the run of no wins.

#16 - Dapo Mebude [8]

Probably his best performances since his debut against Bolton Wanderers.

#21 - Luke McCormick [5]

Was drawn into the huff it forward performance of the first half.

#22 - Ben Heneghan [5]

Second half performance pushed his score up.

#24 - Alfie Bendle [7]

For a debut at 17 years old showed more composure than the regulars.

#27 - Dylan Adjei-Hersey [5]

Feel for him as he didn't get chance to show anything he could do.

#37 - Paul Osew [2]

Paul was either out of position, passing to the oppo or generally making a mistake. Simple a bad game.

#55 – Lee Brown [5]

Played his usual game but was just as poor as the rest first half.

-------THE SUBS-------

Replacing Will Nightingale

#3 – Daniel Csoka [7]- in the 45th Minute

Brought calm to the second half and should of started theat way.

Replacing Dylan Adjei-Hersey

#9 – Sam Cosgrove [4]- in the 45th Minute

Possible the worst loan signing I can remember bringing in.

Replacing Alfie Bendle

#11 – Ethan Chislett [5]- in the 84th Minute

Didn't realise he came on despite standing to clap Alfie off.

The Officials [8]

I really cannot complain about the officials today it wasn't their fault we didn't show up until the second half.

1 (1) Wimbledon v Wycombe Wanderers (0) 1

Monday 18th April 2022 - Kick-Off 3:00pm

League One

Pre-Game

Honestly I haven't bothered with pre-game on this one as I knew what was going to happen and low and behold it happened.

Brief Summary of the match

Dons took the lead in the 20th minutes and looked to have weathered the storm but conceded a goal that should never have been. That said it was a mirror image of so many games recently. Another point when three points were coming home. How many times this season? I've lost count so I won't bother trying.

#Number Name - [Score] (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev [7]

Made a couple of saves and couldn't get close for the goal so for some reason I am feeling generous today, so its a seven from me today.

#4 – Alex Woodyard (c) [6]

Was reliable as ever and it was very unusual to see him go down. So there had to be something wrong which means he will be gone for the remaining two games. It was whilst he was down that the cheating Wanderers took advantage and scored the equaliser. I didn't see that much of him today which may be down to how well he played but that said I wasn't 'up' for it today as I knew what was going to happen with a hope of prove me wrong. They didn't.

#5 - Will Nightingale [7]

Had his hands full with the wingers and attackers all game and put in a real shift today. Worked his little socks off so to speak so again a generous seven from me.

#6 - George Marsh [7]

Another hard battling performance from him. Wycombe are always going to roughhouse and shithouse all game and he coped with it in an unfamiliar position of right wing.

#9 - Sam Cosgrove [3]

I think this reflex more on previous performances rather than today. He was thrown around and the referee just didn't buy it. He was there to win the ball and he didn't really do that. He can't even pass to a fellow don when they are stood 5 yards away. He picked out those in red and white so many times I am just done with him. Please note I didn't even mention that he is earning £17k a week for those performances we've witnessed.

#10 - Ayoub Assal [6]

Worked hard and ran at defenders six times his size and was assaulted in the final minutes when the referee assumed he was just play acting when physically kicked punched and thrown on to the touchline. Cheated out of a game again but hey we are used to that by now.

#12 - Jack Rudoni [8]

What a talent we had here. No he won't stay and we will get less for him over this summer than we would have if we stayed up. Yes mathematically it hasn't happened yet but if you think we can beat Fleetwood Town and Accrington Stanley whilst three other teams lose all their games then you have not watched many of our games this season. Good luck to him and I wish him well as he moves up the leagues whilst we head in the other direction.

#21 - Luke McCormick [6]

One of the most rounded players we have, size and ability in equal measures unfortunately can drift out of games and I some times lose him on the pitch. He will be there when it matters during the game and I for one would prefer him in my team than against us.

#22 - Ben Heneghan [7]

I would vote Ben the player of the season as he has been there all year and has made mistakes but bounces back. One defender I would want back next season, there isn't many of them this season. Compared to the forwards where there is hardly any I would want. He is a battling heart at the back which is needed.

#30 - Paul Kalambayi [7]

PK did really well today, he seems to only appear for the bigger games. That said he was pretty solid today. We were cheated out of the result but the goal wasn't down to him.

#55 – Lee Brown [6]

I really want to sing his praises and to be honest he worked hard down the wing today. The cross came from his side and there was no one on the back post due to the captain being injured on the floor. That aside Lee come back into the team for me and worked hard.

-------THE SUBS-------

Replacing Alex Woodyard

#2 – Henry Lawrence [4]- in the 83rd Minute

I don't know where the Henry Lawrence of the beginning of the season went. What we have now is a player that seems uninterested in going forward or crossing. What we are left with is a player worried to be on the pitch and terrified that his mistake will lead to the goal that leads to defeat.

Replacing Luke McCormick

#11 – Ethan Chislett [6]- in the 75th Minute

Sadly I haven't warmed enough to Ethan to change my view from earlier this season. I have to say I like him and if we had loads of money and could afford to keep him then fine he may provide a shock and cross for a goal every now and again. Today he did the usual of coming on but I didn't realise he was there.

Replacing Sam Cosgrove

#43 – Derick Osei Yaw [4]- in the 84th Minute

My quote today was "How bad must Derick be? He is fourth choice behind Aaron Pressley (now injured), Aaron Cosgrave (now Injured), Zack Robinson (now injured), then the ultimate insult an 80% fit Sam Cosgrove is starting before you." In my eyes he didn't do much to change that opinion either.

The Officials [2]

When two officials change the result then they haven't done their jobs have they or maybe they have as they clearly wanted Wycombe to get a result today. When the referee allows divers win free kicks and those kicking lumps to have free reign to continue. The bias was blatant. For example counting out 10 steps for every oppo free kicks yet not bothering with the dons kicks or just taking 9 steps for us (and yes I am sad and yes I WAS counting). When things are happening less than ten feet from the assistant referee and he doesn't call it then there is a complete fail. The Dons win an attacking throw which the lino decides to give the throw to them. They scored from the attack that that throw started. Thanks Lino! Then there is the major incident that could / would / should decide the game and there is a physical assault which the police should be called about and the ref gives one yellow. There was a yellow card challenge followed by a red card challenge and yet he waved one card.

1 (1) Wimbledon v Thieves (0) 1

Saturday 9th April 2022 - Kick-Off 3:00pm

League One

Pre-Game

On Saturday coming to play in Plough Lane for the first time will be a team that should not exist. Without the use of playing the system and using brides and underhand manipulations of ‘so call’ rules the people showing up to play football have no ethics on how the fans view this once beautiful game. At the time of the decision to allow them to exist was when football was controlled by a corrupt leadership that later faced a full investigation of the FBI. Meanwhile the FA were angelic and perfect and far from any controversy, weren’t they? Well, not for me they are in it for money and not for the love of the game. This has been proven with the mere existence of ‘them.’ Now the game itself is going to be a horrible one as they are close to the top and (previously stated) we are going down and that gives them some reason to think they can gloat. Well, they have been doing that since there birth in 2004 but they have suffered more relegations than promotions in their time so they may teach us something. How to be a community club is one thing they will never know as they slagged off the fans who pay to go while they take their money and move it away like a chess piece to a more profitable location as what happens on the pitch has nothing to do with the money that comes in does it? Saturday we will probably lose, and it will make me upset and angry but I will leave knowing that just a small little piece of the ground where the game was played is owned by me and my blood sweat and tears help get this into existence and we are in this league by right not by having more money than what was there before.

Brief Summary of the match

Dons took the lead in the 19th minutes and looked to have weathered the storm but a brilliantly taken goal by some spurs playing wearing a mask carrying a swag bag in white and grey hoops. The scum didn't deserve to exist by they some how stole more points off us. It finished 1-1..

#Number Name - [Score] (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev [7]

Put in a great shift today pulled off a couple of saves against a 'team' sitting second in the table. Couldn't really do anything with the goal and I would be asking a lot for him to stop that one. He needs the confidence and everyone was on point today and they needed to be.

#2 - Henry Lawrence [6]

Defended well today but was lacking in the opposite direction for me. He was full of confidence when he went off injured but has returned a timid and about 70-80% of who he once was. He ran well with the ball then lost it, beat a man and put in a poor cross. The ability is there (I think).

#4 – Alex Woodyard (c) [8]

Mr Reliable and goal scoring today, this could of been his first of the season for all I can remember and was potentially a critical one if we have just held on. This result sums up the last 22 games, being ahead but not hanging on. I cannot fault his effort all season and its a pleasure to have him in the squad.

#5 - Will Nightingale [7]

The back three were put to the test today and they had a job to do of either stopping the ball coming in or cut out the runs which were a flow throughout the entire game. It felt like the midfield didn't prevent many of the through balls but they worked very hard and it took something special to finally beat the back three.

#6 - George Marsh [7]

Battled hard as he won tackles and evening winning the ball and not touching his opponent got him booked. I think he did well and worked very hard against the odds today. A hard point earnt today.

#10 - Ayoub Assal [6]

Ran and ran today until he was withdrawn but there is something missing from his game and I think its goals or goal creation. There isn't much end product with him when compared to the early part of the season. This may well cause the relegation of the club as there was a big reliance on him this season. Whether that was right to do is another subject.

#12 - Jack Rudoni [7]

Worked his socks off and held the line for the other two forwards today. He was marshalling the others despite being about the same age. He has a great future ahead of him its just a shame that this will probably not be with us as he will go soon after we hit League 2.

#14 - Zach Robinson [8]

Hopefully the first of many goals gained tonight. I love his enthusiasm and running at people. Behind defenders and off the ball. He got his goal from a sweet cross from Chislett thus highlighting that if you give him the service he will get you goals.

#18 – Nesta Guinness-Walker [6]

What a hidden gem we had on loan at Hampton & Richmond for the majority of the season. What a different season it may have been if he was given a chance from the start. It is a worry that he left the field with an injury to be with a replaced by a player who had two chances and never looked like scoring. Where this guy is a pain in the arse for any defence.

#22 - Ben Heneghan [7]

The best defender we have had this season. He has been at the heart of a failing defence yet worked his butt off while those around him have had a lack of concentration here or there has cost us so much. As for today the three at the back were tidy for the majority of the 90 minutes.

#30 - Paul Kalambayi [7]

Paul seems to return for random games and seems to be dragged in for the big games. Now is that the case or does he refuse to play during the rest of the time. He was part of a central three that shut down the threat many times in the game and should have left with three points rather than the disappointing single point.

-------THE SUBS-------

Replacing Ayoub Assal

#21 – Luke McCormick [7]- in the 66th Minute

Entering the fray in the 66th minute little changed which meant the strong defence and the potential to score continued they ran out of ideas and he supported the attack in his usual way. He is a good addition to the squad.

Replacing Zack Robinson

#11 – Ethan Chislett [7]- in the 75th Minute

Man of the match had a header from about three yards out in the dying minutes and somehow the keeper got to it. He needs goals to add to his appeal of getting a new contract as I am still not yet convinced that is the case. That doubt is fading mind you.

Replacing Paul Kalambayi

#9 – Sam Cosgrove [5]- in the 84th Minute

It will not come as a shock to say that Sam didn't add to his two goal season. He had two chances one blazed over the other equally came to nothing. He puts himself about which must be tough knowing you have a fractured skull but if he does score it will be too late to save a game (I am sure of that). If he get one I would be amazed.

The Officials [7]

Determined not to give a penalty today, I think we had a good two decent shouts and they had one but nothing given. He waved cards yet missed some things. He did well considering the tempers would of been simmering and waiting to explode.

1 (0) Wimbledon v Charlton Athletic (0) 1

Tuesday 5th April 2022 - Kick-Off 7:45pm

League One

Pre-Game

Charlton Athletic roll into Plough Lane following two or three postponed attempts to play this game before. Seeing as the Addicks were too scared to play us without their best players they played the Covid-19 card until their better players were back to face the mighty Wombles. They didn't need to worry as the Dons are 21 games away from their last win. They should come here full of confidence and ready to pick up three points. It will give me the opportunity to see the new manager at work for the first time and judge as we go from there.

Brief Summary of the match

After a terrible start the dons grew into the game and totally dominated the second half until Inniss put in an horrendous tackle and got himself sent off. The Latic broke down the right one cross to find a number nine that knows how to head a ball and it was 1-0. The Dons battled and showed some real fight to get an equaliser but not a winner and the points were shared.

#Number Name - [Score] (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev [6]

Did what he needed with the exception of the goal. I am not complaining about his performances as he is being asked a lot more questions than he should be and I just want him to step up and do better. Is that unfair yes probably.

#2 - Henry Lawrence [5]

For me one of Henry's worst performances when the team was playing well. He was nervous and unambitious when attacking then that indecision left him exposed at times when in no mans land. Crossing was poor as well which is normally one of his skills he brings every week.

#3 – Daniel Csoka [7]

After an extremely shocking and poor start to the season he has really grown up and its a shame that the other that started so far ahead of him have stayed still as he has passed them with his performances. He is showing moments where he can be the player we all want him to be.

#4 – Alex Woodyard (c) [7]

Mr Reliable was reliable again with the odd miss pass showing that he hasn't got the confidence that he began the season with and those around him look the same.

#5 - Will Nightingale [6]

Will put in a good performance but I fear he is not as good as I thought he was. There is a mistake in him and that puts fear in me, waiting for it to happen and this point of the season that could be all but sends us down.

#6 - George Marsh [6]

Didn't really impact the game at all in my opinion. I think he has great ability and could be the Jack Russell terrier in the Woody mould as he wins more tackles than anyone out there and follows that up with great passing to bring the ball forward.

#10 - Ayoub Assal [6]

Sorry but for his ability he should be bringing more to the team than he has this season and the score may reflect the entire season more than just one game but thats where my head is right now so sorry but there you go.

#12 - Jack Rudoni [7]

For large parts of the 22 game winless run, Jack has looked like the only goal threat we have. Parts of tonight was the same. He works so hard and needs better players around him. I fear that will mean moving to a team that has better players to surround him.

#14 - Zach Robinson [8]

Hopefully the first of many goals gained tonight. I love his enthusiasm and running at people. Behind defenders and off the ball. He got his goal from a sweet cross from Chislett thus highlighting that if you give him the service he will get you goals.

#22 - Ben Heneghan [7]

Has been the best defender for the season and needs to be retained as the only defender that has a calm head when the chips are down. Yes he has made his mistakes but he bounces back and works his socks off.

#37 - Paul Osew [5]

Mr Hot or Cold was cold tonight. He works hard but sometimes he looks lost and chasing shadows. He was done down the left (oppo's right) for the goal. We should of been using the width with the extra man. Like Henry his crossing was poor tonight and Zack showed what he can do if they are delivered well. Play him again Saturday and you might get Mr Hot instead... he is becoming an enigma.

-------THE SUBS-------

Replacing Paul Osew

#18 – Nest Guinness-Walker [5]- in the 72nd Minute

He came on at the 72nd minute mark and that was the only time I noticed him.

Replacing Daniel Csoka

#16 – Dapo Mebude [6]- in the 72nd Minute

I hadn't realised he had come on for Paul as the crossing was just as poor. He did however run at defenders and try and bring some attacking ideas to team. Just not very many.

Replacing Henry Lawrence

#11 – Ethan Chislett [7]- in the 79th Minute

The sponsors man of the match as he put the cross in for Zack's goal and what a cross it was. He was great and looked like one of the few players who actually wanted to attack once on the pitch.

The Officials [7]

Sending off when right in front of the official which was good to see. Failed to notice the five times Charlton kicked a dead ball away which is one of my pet peeves. That aside and the missed shirt pulling in the penalty area from corner after corner. The rest of the time they were ok with decision making.

0 (0) Wimbledon v Cambridge United (0) 1

Saturday 25th March 2022 - Kick-Off 3:00pm

League One

Pre-Game

Cambridge United will roll into points away from home town to see if they can do the double over a team that cannot win at home so the chances are they should be confident. Meanwhile the Dons come into this game on a hot run of form of no wins in the last 20 games and yes, I have given up caring as all they do each week is fine new and inventive ways to let me down. This followed by the shrugs and the 'we go again' and roll onto the next opportunity to throw points away again. Needing to concede early and then turn the game around to be able to win at home, is a dangerous formula when a goal means their head drops and a second goal could easily lead to a thrashing which would conclude the season there and then as a contest. Any-hoo it doesn't matter what I say here as the U's will be leaving happy and we won't be (yet again) but I will be back on here to give the players a score seeing as they won't be scoring on the pitch. As we go through all the same rubbish again and again!

Brief Summary of the match

I don't really need to say anything here. I could just write I told you so from the pre-match notes. One shot on target by each team and one goal from it. It was thugs against kids today helped by a hapless referee. I am not blaming the referee for the abject perform from the awful performance I am just tarring all with the same brush. It was simply a waste of time and money bothering going to the game today. I won't be going to Wednesday on Saturday.

#Number Name - [Score] (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev [4]

One shot on target from outside the box and we lost again. Not good enough for this Division? Possibly but had so little today which means being switched on so you don't get beat from a shot.

#2 - Henry Lawrence [4]

Worked hard in the channel but crossing was mainly awful, passing was equal to that didn't really contribute to the attacking presence.

#4 – Alex Woodyard (c) [4]

Worked hard won tackles and then didn't little with it as he was royally let down by the squad around him today.

#5 - Will Nightingale [4]

Won some headers and restricted them to one shot on target shame it flew in the net and they never looked liked recovering from there on.

#8 – Anthony Hartigan [3]

Did he play today? I didn't really notice.

#9 - Sam Cosgrove [3]

He put himself about today and had support up front which wasn't enough. This striker has scored 5 goals in the previous 2 seasons. Had a golden chance that he leant back on and blasted the ball over the bar.

#12 - Jack Rudoni [5]

One of the better performers today but had no end product and nothing really worked today.

#22 - Ben Heneghan [5]

Gets an extra point from me for the clearance off the line quick, yes he used his pace to get a one on one with the keeper and tapped it wide. Didn't track back for the goal. He had no idea for a playing an attack after half time.

#37 - Paul Osew [3]

He runs hot or cold and for me today was a cold one. Overlapped and didn't get the ball. Was a winger but kept dropping into the left back position and nearly scored an own goal. That was enough for me.

#46 - Derick Osei Yaw [4]

Another missing element on the park today. He has walked into a big pile of poop when he signed for a dead weight. He hasn't lightened the mood and never would have either. Did nothing today but I want to give him a chance hence the one point higher than his fellow forward.

#55 - Lee Brown [4]

One of his worst games for the club. Had a free kick that hit the wall and there wasn't many freekicks elsewhere to pick from. Poor crosses and not much other contribution.

-------THE SUBS-------

Replacing Paul Osew

#18 – Nest Guinness-Walker [4]- in the 58th Minute

Sadly one of the worst players in the squad. Starting the game with three left-backs on the pitch so bringing on another one seems really logical. Nesta made one decent run that led to nothing. That was about it.

Replacing Derick Osei Yaw

#10 – Ayoub Assal [4]- in the 66th Minute

Came on for the last thirty minutes of the game (effectively) and contributed nothing which has been about the norm for the last few months.

Replacing Jack Rudoni

#16 – Dapo Mebude [4]- in the 76th Minute

I have spent the season trying to work out what Dapo brings to the team. I am still not sure but he does appear to be trying which is more than some others in the squad.

Replacing Sam Cosgrave

#11 – Ethan Chislett [4]- in the 88th Minute

Did he come on?

The Officials [4]

The overly physical United side pushed, pulled and grabbed shirts dived, time wasted and basically do anything they wanted and this douche of a referee booked three of our players. Two of our players went off injured thanks to these thugs and he did nothing. One of those was knocked unconscious but nah you booked him earlier in the game for pushing. No control over them but penalised us at every opportunity.

3 (0) Cheltenham Town v AFC Wimbledon (1) 1

Saturday 20th March 2022 - Kick-Off 3:00pm

League One

Pre-Game

Cheltenham Town will be coming into this game looking to turn there season back around as they face a team who hasn't won for 36% of the season and still counting. Meanwhile the Dons are riding that turd they call 'form' for 102 days now. The media side of thing are hyping this one up as the next chance for the Dons to turn the corner and start the revival for the season. Then right at the end of it all they point out that the Dons have never beaten the Robins at Whaddon Road before. Oh well back the usual again this Saturday then boys.

Brief Summary of the match

Leading and comfortable in a match for 81 minutes only to toss the game away like so many other games recently. And earning the sole title of the last team in England to not win a game in 2022. One goal beats us as we lay down and die as soon as the first goal goes in. You know its over as soon as someone scores.

#Number Name - [Score] (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev [4]

I want to watch the goals back again but three goals conceded is enough for me to be thoroughly fed up with every game.

#2 - Henry Lawrence [5]

Nice to see him return to the side an he was comfortable for the majority of the game but cannot defend a goal lead period let again another lead thrown away again.

#4 – Alex Woodyard (c) [6]

Was very good for the majority of the game won the ball played it forward but we need the senior members of the squad to pull this team home in these types of games. It didn't happen again and I for one I am fed up now.

#5 - Will Nightingale [5]

Worked really hard battled even harder played 80 minutes perfectly which means shit when you concede three goals after the 81st minute.

#8 – Anthony Hartigan [5]

Worked really hard but was not really involved in the game until the ball was dead, then he woke up took the kick and went back to sleep again.

#9 - Sam Cosgrove [5]

No goals and not looked like scoring today (again, I might add) he is not in the squad to score but had no input into the goal or helped create anything attacking around really.

#10 - Ayoub Assal [4]

Yes he is quick, yes he used his pace to get a one on one with the keeper and tapped it wide. Didn't track back for the goal. He had no idea for a playing an attack after half time.

#12 - Jack Rudoni [7]

He gets a seven for scoring the goal and that aside really wasn't in the game for much else. He did turn up to cut passes out and steal possession.

#16 - Dapo Medube [7]

One of his best games from my point of view. Worked hard down the wing and battled more than I've seen all season and I am desperate to give praise to this squad but I am so down right now it is tough. He like all the attacking midfielders in the team are there to get goals and we don't get enough.

#18 - Nesta Guinness-Walker [5]

Sums the whole squad in one performance low in confidence but battled and pulled off a last ditch tackle stopping a certain goal. We take the lead and he ability shone, beating three players to get into the box. Bang 1-1 and he couldn't stop anything and all that ability vanished in a puff of wind. Just gone in seconds. Couldn't pass or even know the name of team mates to pass to.

#22 - Ben Heneghan [7]

Sorry missed him out originally so just putting this in 3 weeks after the game (whoops sorry!)

-------THE SUBS-------

Replacing Sam Cosgrove

#14 – Zach Robinson [6]- in the 74th Minute

One of the substitutes that I could see why. At one nil up he brought on the youngster to gain some confidence after not taking his chances last time out. This backfired as after entering the fray we concede three and Zach is back on the losing side again.

Replacing Dapo Mebude

#46 – Derick Osei Yaw [6]- in the 88th Minute

I don't want to dish a man on his debut so I won't and just give him a six and move on.

Replacing Ayoub Assal

#30 – Paul Kalambayi [6]- in the 88th Minute

No idea about this substitute he seems to come on when we are losing and has NEVER changed the course of the game. If something doesn't work why not do it again and again its going to work eventually huh. Probably in League 2 next season after losing the first 10 games then this tactic will turn it around. Can't wait for that day.

The Officials [7]

I would give him more as he was fair he let the teams kick lumps out of each other evenly. What was a foul for them was a foul for us, straight down the middle. The lino's on the other hand dragged this 9 down to a 7. If you cannot see an offside then why are you there. That aside we lost due more to do with us than the officials for a change.

0 (0) Wimbledon v Lincoln City (1) 2

Saturday 12th March 2022 - Kick-Off 3:00pm

League One

Pre-Game

The Dons are riding on a turd of form as it smears its way down a flume at pace, ultimately hurtling toward the toilet of relegation. All without any form of breaks or even any sign of any invention of even slowing down. They come up against a rare opportunity this season of a double having beaten the Imps earlier this season with a fantastic performance in a 1-0 win. Since then fortunes have changed and Lincoln City have now put daylight between themselves and the trapdoor of doom. They roll into town expecting a tough game that will see them gain some more points towards their ultimate salvation. The Dons on the other hand need to fix their heads before anything positive will change on the pitch. By the time kick off rolls around it will be day 95 of the winless run. If that isn't relegation form, I don't know what is.

Brief Summary of the match

I will warn you as I describe this match as complete and utter shit show from start to end. A goal in each half with a sending off for the away side splitting the goals sums up the crap served up today.

#Number Name - [Score] (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev [5]

Cost us the second goal but by then the heads had already dropped and no one cared. He didn't cover himself in glory for the first goal either from a shot from outside the box which flew in. He did make some saves in between that and the gifted second goal late on. You could argue that it was his fault for the loss but I wouldn't agree with that.

#4 – Alex Woodyard (c) [6]

Didn't do much today in fairness, worked hard pulled the strings and helped out at the back but there were no goals. The whole side came out and battled second half but was nothing of an end result to show.

#5 - Will Nightingale [6]

Cannot be blamed for either goal and worked so hard today that he shouldn't of been on the losing side but something is better at the other end of the field. Not much else to say.

#7 - Cheye Alexander [6]

Started as well as you could ask then got injured and taken off before 30 minutes was on the clock.

#10 - Ayoub Assal [5]

Ran and ran and didn't get a yellow card that an improvement from Tuesday night I guess. Largely ineffective for large parts. Sorry I have just run out of patients with him. Hasn't brought anything to the side for sometime.

#12 - Jack Rudoni [5]

I feel bad for the low score as he did score a perfectly good goal with was disallowed for an off-side. An off-side that wasn't even close. <= See. This score seems harsh on him as he does work hard. I have just run out of patient for an attacking five that seems to be unable to beat anybody (3 games no goals).

#14 – Zack Robinson [6]

He was my player of the team in the first half and then created two great chances but missed both one was clear cut but muffed his chance. I felt for him as he was thrown in the deep end and was so close to swimming and creating a great result but those are the margins and he didn't score.

#16 - Dapo Medube [6]

He actually worked hard as part of the team today which makes a change. He was another forward that had been present for the season and just simply isn't good enough and will be taking the team down and will sod off back to Scotland where he will no doubt get signed by a Championship or Division 1 side up there. No goals for the third game from any forward says enough doesn't it.

#21 - Luke McCormick [7]

Player of the game for me today. Worked his socks off and was the spark of many attacks today admittedly he didn't do enough to get anyone a goal but he was the only one winning the ball and taking it forward. Was very surprised to see him coming off for Hartigan late on which is yet another strange management decision I couldn't work out.

#55 - Lee Brown [6]

More of a leader than anyone else in the camp and got a man sent off with a bit of shit-housery. Looking at it again he is stopping the guy from falling into the barrier, which he took offence to and pushes Lee in the back. Which earned himself a sending off and a booking for Lee. Interesting to see what he says after this result?

-------THE SUBS-------

Replacing Cheye Alexander

#37 – Paul Osew [5]- in the 26th Minute

Being thrust into the action due to injury meant entering when not expecting to and Paul was almost literally a rabbit caught in the headlights. The ball flew over his head, he missed tackles and lunged in not winning the ball. It was his failed tackle that set up Lincoln's first goal. Not covered himself in glory today.

Replacing Ayoub Assal

#17 – Terry Ablade [5]- in the 57th Minute

Brought on for his attacking ability which I for one is yet to see. Apparently he is Fulham's under 23's leading goal-scorer in the Premier League 2. Shame he hasn't scored once for the Dons. Again not one chance comes his way but I am not convinced he would take it if it came anyway. Blunt in attack (yet) again today.

Replacing Luke McCormick

#8 – Anthony Hartigan [6]- in the 67th Minute

This substitution was just baffling for me. He was the most inventive player on the pitch at the time and yet yields for a defensive midfielder. He could of removed Assal and moved McCormick into that position releasing this spot for Anthony. Or anything else. That aside Anthony got some dead ball deliveries in won a penalty right in front of me which earned him a yellow card. Nope don't ask! The official cost us this game as much as inept attackers.

The Officials [4]

What a mish-mash of bad decisions did we have today. I remember the game at their ground when three booking were given for timewasting. Yet these can kick the ball away without even a word. My head nearly exploded when the ref delays the game to call a player over to speak to him. No card. You wasted time just to do that. There was a perfectly good goal ruled out for an offside that wasn't. There was a stone wall penalty given by the linesman which was over-ruled by the referee who with a worse view of the challenge gave our man a booking. Clearly the third team wasn't much of a team as . One of the worst in terms of getting the important decisions right. Awful in fact.

Games Reviewed

2 (1) Plymouth Argyle v Wimbledon (0) 0

Tuesday 8th March 2022 - Kick-Off 7:45pm

League One

Pre-Game

Here we are 91 days since the last time the Wombles saw a win going up against a Plymouth Argyle side sitting 8th in the table two points off a play-off spot with at least two games in hand on the teams around them. The flip side of that is where the Dons find themselves in March. Hovering on the scary line knowing that anything other than a victory could see them dip below that line, if the teams around them get positive results. Form coming into this Wombles without a win in 15 going back to early December. Argyle have won three of the last five and beat Dons relegation rivals Morecombe on Saturday, to be honest they will be expecting a comfortable three points in the cold Devon evening. For me I cannot see anything majorly different from that, we could pray for a point but I won't be holding my breathe.

Brief Summary of the match

The Dons completely dominated the entire game in Devon before two break away goals completely changed the look of the game. If you believe that then I am collecting for a save the Hedgehog sanctuary please send me £1000 in used notes to help. A professional outfit showed the young Dons a footballing lesson after nicking a well taken goal. They didn't take their foot off the throat and ran out comfortable winnings. I even noticed the centre back and right back stop for a coffee and cigars around the 78th minute. It didn't matter as we didn't attack down the left so they were not disturbed. Look at the picture above with the game summary. A team fighting for every 50/50, battling and desperate made no impact on the game bar substitutions. Not even a booking... Just curled up at their feet like kittens.

#Number Name - [Score] (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev [6]

Had very little to do except pick the ball out the back of the net twice. Nothing else to really say here.

#3 - Daniel Csoka [6]

Unusually not his fault for the second goal but didn't cover himself in glory with a knife like sliced pass between the back two. Had a busy night as Plymouth steadily took control of the game. To be honest I was completely confused with the formation for the second half. We have two up front, Assal on the right, two defensive midfielders and five across the back. He was one of the central three that conceded a second so not great but I have seen a lot worse from him.

#4 – Alex Woodyard (c) [6]

Was his usual combative self but on the whole was ineffective in being able to pull the strings and create anything of any note. We had a positive 15 minute opening then just drifted away and he was the same as the Dons slipped into a limp defeat away from home.

#5 - Will Nightingale [6]

Watched the pass go between him and Csoka for the first goal and was completely outpaced by the goal scorer who managed a tap in with WIll just a mere shadow. I am still struggling to work out the plan for the second half. We went out with a whimper.

#6 - George Marsh [6]

Was my player of the match with some early blocks in the second half but just like everyone else just ineffective against a vastly superior team. It was men against boys and we had no idea how to cope.

#7 - Cheye Alexander [6]

As always he worked very hard down the right, his crosses deserve better players on the end of them. Always willing to charge forward and doesn't shirk defensive duties either. One of the few lights tonight but even his was a dim one that faded as the game went on.

#9 - Sam Cosgrove [6]

Unmarked header four yards out hits the post. One on one with the keeper saved. Shot from distance saved. He's attempts on goal could or arguably should of been better but the more concerning part of all that was he was the only one that I remember having any chances for us in the game.

#10 - Ayoub Assal [6]

Again didn't get a lot of protection from the referee but was largely ineffective after 15 minutes and then ran and chased and harried but got nothing from it.

#12 - Jack Rudoni [6]

Worse performance for me from Jack passed the ball off the pitch, ran into trouble yet was still one of the better attacking options for parts of this game. Subbed off at half time and maybe deserves a lower score.

#21 – Luke McCormick [6]

Huffed and puffed and battled and didn't get a lot of decisions from the referee but those games are going to happen and how you deal with it is more important than getting angry and sent off (which didn't happen today) but was subbed off eventually

#55 - Lee Brown [7]

He comes across as too calm at the back sometimes when he turns the ball over just outside the penalty area. However was on hand (again) to prevent yet another clear goal so deserves slightly more credit than anyone else on the pitch by a smidge.

-------THE SUBS-------

Replacing Jack Rudoni

#30 – Paul Kalambayi [6]- in the 45th Minute

He came on to... erm give me a second here... I'll say shore up the defence? After the break I had no idea of the game plan [if we had one]. I think it was a 5-3-2 but I wasn't sure on that. I am not moaning about Paul as he didn't do much wrong and couldn't do a lot about the second goal. This game was dead and buried long before the ref decided it was.

Replacing George Marsh

#8 – Anthony Hartigan [6]- in the 57th Minute

Another baffling substitution as he came on for a like for like after we changed formation and Marsh seemed out of position. Never really got involved that much but did make some passes that could of become something but never did.

Replacing Luke McCormick

#17 – Terry Ablade [6]- in the 67th Minute

It feels wrong to give him anything less than the rest of the team but apart from his pace I have no idea what he brings to the team. Just another forward with a zero in his goals scored column.

The Officials [8]

Nowt majorly wrong did miss a few challenges when we were breaking but we wouldn't of made anything out of them anyway so it didn't really matter did it? Thats about all I am going to add here I just want to go to bed and forget this match even happened.

2 (1) Wimbledon v Doncaster Rovers (0) 2

Saturday 12th February 2022 - Kick-Off 3:00pm

League One

Pre-Game

For those that who have read my other page this is the second half of the two games that if the Dons were to justify the shambles at Bolton Wanderers and burn a game to concentrate on the next two games then two points will not be good enough. Well, the Wombles only picked up a point on Tuesday night (see below) which for me makes this one a must win or changes have to be made. Now, when I say change I am not saying sack the manager but I am saying Plan 'A' isn't currently working and an alternative needs to be found.

Coming into the game on the fact that Wimbledon are one of two teams in the country that haven't won this year. That sums up the issue with the season the Dons have drawn more games than they've lost. If just two of those draws we stolen wins then the season and the table would have a dramatic difference to its look.

On the flip side Donny come into this game 22nd in the table with form improving just at the right point in the season. With two wins in the last three games. Doncaster Rovers started the season awfully and lost to the Dons won the opening day which started a great run of results followed by the recent poor form. If you take a look at the form table for the last ten games Donny are 15th with four wins in ten and the Dons being 23rd without a win in ten. It doesn't bode well for either side looking at the table but we are at the point in the season where a great run of form could make a great different come the end of the season. It has the prospect of being a great battle or a nervy stalemate.

Brief Summary of the match

After dominating a game for 60 minutes and only had two goals on the score sheet the Dons managed to concede two in three minutes and then nearly conceded a third late on to cling on for a point. As a Dons fan I can sum this up in four words... Simply Not Good Enough!!

#Number Name - [Score] (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev [7]

Came and collected when needed but there were three shots on target today and he didn't stop one of them. Lee Brown cleared one off the line which was the one that didn't find the back of the net. I am not complaining about him but the game was there for the taken and more the defence than him let the team down.

#4 – Alex Woodyard (c) [7]

The captain was back at the helm and we returned to non-losing affair returned with a completely dominant performance for sixty minutes followed by a desperate need to cling onto the result for the final third. He was composed and strong throughout the game and lead by example just a shame the panic button wasn't there to be hit again.

#5 - Will Nightingale [6]

There is a mistake in there every game and he appears to be at the right level to get away with it more often. If this team with Will in it is to progress then consistency is the key to any success this young side will get. He was on for an eight until the 60th minute.

#6 - George Marsh [6]

With Woody next to him Marsh put in a bang average performance. Put challenges in when possible but had two of the missed challenges to win the ball in the build up to their first goal. It was so disappointing as the second that hit the net you knew what was coming.

#7 - Cheye Alexander [6]

As a defender he was lacking today but as an attacking force he was nearly on point. Excellent balls into the box flipped sided with poor marking and getting beaten to the by-line all to many times in the final thirty minutes.

#9 - Sam Cosgrove [6]

Ollie Palmer he is not. I am not expecting a huge goalscoring count from him which I would with Palmer. He doesn't look like scoring so you look for the other side of the game to shine. The dark art of winning headers and holding up play for the others around him. He did this in parts today but was chasing the fast attacking three for the whole game. When we needed him to calm things down and hold the ball up he was AWOL.

#10 - Ayoub Assal [7]

Was thrown around for the majority of the game and I saw Brown on the overlap when the ball was played to him. He was pulled down allowing the ball to reach Brown who set up the second goal. Go watch the highlights its all there to see. If the foul was given we wouldn't of scored. Thanks for missing that one ref but no thanks for all the others you missed against this attacking midfielder.

#12 - Jack Rudoni [8]

Man of the match again with a goal in the first half and one of the few attacking players to give his all for the 90 minutes. Along with Luke he was on point on the attacking front and without him in the team we would have even less points than we do at the moment.

#21 – Luke McCormick [7]

Arguably the man of the match in some eyes. He has an assist for one goal and scored the other which should be enough in most games. Today however it appears he was lucky to have been sent off. As well as creating so much positivity in the first 60 minutes of the game he was needed for the final 30 but was removed straight after their first goal.

#30 - Paul Kalambayi [6]

I feel bad for the six but the defence needs to step up and take responsibility for another two points dropped. When calm heads were needed we had very few again. He didn't do much wrong and was marking a man as the forward ran in between the five defenders to head home the equaliser. Not his fault (again) but collectively he is on a six. Only one defender gets more and that is...

#55 - Lee Brown [8]

He is the calm at the back, at one point he won the ball beat a man and passed (not hoofed) the ball out of his own penalty area. He also was the man on the line as Donny was taking the lead Being which he prevented. He deserves the eight despite being a member of the back four that shipped two goals from their first and second shot on target and then he cleared it off the line for the third. He set up McCormick goal as well (by the way).

-------THE SUBS-------

Replacing Luke McCormick

#11 – Ethan Chislett [7]- in the 64th Minute

He put in a shift up front today and he is growing on me after believing he was the black sheep of the team he is putting a shift every time. There is still little end product but he is trying and going for it which is more than many in the squad.

Replacing Sam Cosgrove

#17 – Aaron Pressley [5]- in the 71st Minute

OK I have made a dramatic flip with him as I have been defending him for all season and the last two matches the things he was doing so well with i.e. winning the ball in the air and bringing other players into the game has gone. Yes, he was a late entry into the game but he did little or nothing to impress me today. Which with his style he is prone to getting low scores as he doesn't look a great player.

Replacing Ayoub Assal

#16 – Dapo Bebude [5]- in the 87th Minute

It feels like the white flag is being waved when Bebude come on for Assal with three minutes left. He isn't given any time to do anything good and then doesn't anyway. So I will just leave it there.

The Officials [6]

Didn't give us very much today, the fact that the assault on Assal went unpunished which allowed the ball to run onto Brown who set up the goal. There seems to be a blind spot when it comes to our players being pushed but seem to see our do it. Just irritated me throughout the game. Missed the assaults on Assal again which helped us score so he just wasn't good enough for me today.

0 (0) Gillingham v Wimbledon (0) 0

Tuesday 23rd February 2022 - Kick-Off 7:45pm

League One

No-Pre Game

(hey I wasn't planning on going!)

My guess of the formation after the 14th minute sub of injured Aaron Cosgrave.

Brief Summary of the match

The nicest thing I can say is this was a goalless game.

#Number Name - [Score] (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev [7]

Man of the match for me tonight. He pulled off some great reaction saves. Was in the right place at the right time earlier in the game and then stepped it up late on in the second. Dropping the ball causing a manic scramble with 90 minutes on the clock. This cause panic for the fans behind the goal at the other end.

#5 - Will Nightingale [7]

I wasn't sure of the score for the back four as they deserve more than I probably gave them as they did gain a clean sheet away from home and what not. The whole back four started in what appeared in a blind panic. This was to settle into a reasonably calm battling defensive display. Just for the panic defending to return for the final fifteen minute.

#6 - George Marsh [7]

The ever-green Marsh played his typical solid defensive midfielder role. He was helpful all evening despite managing to put some of his worst passing I'd seen. He added to the panic button pressing late on but still did just about ok.

#7 - Cheye Alexander [7]

A defender with a clean sheet gets him a seven. He did also put in some great crosses which the forwards should of done better with and if they had his score would of been higher. They didn't and he didn't get an eight score.

#9 - Sam Cosgrove [6]

He put himself about and won some important headers. He went close at least once in the game but then also demonstrated some terrible shooting as well. I am not blaming him for the lack of goals alone but he looks like he needs game time but based on this performance I can see why he was a bench warmer at the Shrews.

#11 – Ethan Chislett [7]

One of his best performances, for me he played upfront with Sam for most of the game. I believe the plan was to dominant play like they did in the home game. The Gills determination to break up play worked against and cohesion we attempted. He needs something on the end of his work. Be it a shot or pass rather than do the hard work and then turn around and play the ball where once he just came.

#16 - Dapo Mebude [7]

Probably one of his best performances in Dons colours. Had more than one shot in the game which is a big improvement and he's scored a couple of times this season. He took a cheeky shot lobbing the keeper. He had a pop shot late on and was prepared to run at people. He did OK.

#21 – Luke McCormick [7]

A run of the mill performance from Luke which is difficult to judge as he is normally an attacking midfielder playing in a defensive role. He was alright and thats as far as I will go.

#22 - Ben Heneghan (c) [7]

He was solid for the most part of the game. We needed calm heads tonight and I am not sure anyone had one for large parts of the game. There was some last ditch defending in order and the bottom line here is a clean sheet away from home. He and Will deserve some credit for that.

#37 - Paul Osew [6]

Starting as a left back then moving to right wing after just 15 minutes of the game could not have been easy but it was not one of his best performances. He work hard as usual but was largely ineffective for large parts of the game. Terrifying me with challenges late on in the penalty area is scary.

#38 - Aaron Cosgrave [6]

Being on the pitch for 13 minutes before he was booted for which didn't warrant a free kick apparently. Forced to leave the pitch I felt it harsh to give him less than a six seeing as it wasn't his fault that he got booted and couldn't continue.

-------THE SUBS-------

Replacing Aaron Cosgrave

#8 – Lee Brown [7]- in the 14th Minute

Was looking forward to a relaxing night on the bench sat next to the manager then turned out to be a busy one as he joined the fray before 20 minutes into the game. He was alright and thinking about it now things calmed down at the back after he joined. Couldn't help much when the panic for a point began near the end of the game.

Replacing Ethan Chislett

#17 – Terry Ablade [7]- in the 77th Minute

Much better performance in parts of the game with a athletic overhead kick that hit the crossbar. He did more tonight than I've seen from him so far. There are flashes of his ability but he is yet to find the net for the wombles and that is more telling when you think this bicycle kick was his second shot on target that I remember for us so far this season.

Replacing Sam Cosgrove

#19 – Aaron Pressley [5]- in the 77th Minute

What can I say? I am a Pressley defender but struggled completely tonight. He tried to put himself about but the defenders seemed to have his number. I watched him warming up and for part of it he was banging the ball into an empty net. He got the ball in a similar position during the game and he some how took all possible power out of the shot and lofted the ball 20 or 30 foot over the bar landing with the away fans. It was truly awful and something that has just stuck in my head.

The Officials [8]

When you come out of game. No let me restart that. When I leave a game after 90 minutes of frustration and annoyance, the officials are normally included in that. Not tonight the referee appeared to be spot on with many decisions. Allowed a blatant and sinical challenge when on the break. Something we don't get much support on. He didn't bow down to the crowd getting on his back in their desperation for a penalty. Three cards is a reasonable number for a game like this I guess.

1 (1) AFC Wimbledon v Sunderland AFC (1) 1

Saturday 12th February 2022 - Kick-Off 3:00pm

League One

Pre-Game

Remaining the only League One team without a win this year the Dons find themselves up against the well supported Sunderland AFC at Plough Lane. This is a very difficult game to call as the Dons could pull off a shock and win by 3 or 4 goals. Equally you would not be overly surprised by a Sunderland AFC win by 5 or 6 goals as well. That said the Dons draw more games at home than anyone else in the Division so a draw could also be on the cards. I have just realised what a pointless that paragraph was. It could be a win, a draw or a loss, allow me to use the next paragraph to explain the above.

The Black Cats are having a strange season to say the least and currently in a real whirlwind of a situation. Lee Johnson was sacked as Sunderland AFC manage on the 30th January following a 6-0 away defeat at hands of Bolton Wanderers. I will add that when they lose this season they lose, 4-0 to Portsmouth, Rotherham United 5-1, Sheffield Wednesday 3-0, Lincoln City 3-1. For Sunderland AFC to sack their manager at that point was a big shock to me, they were third and two points off top spot when he was asked to leave. Since game they have lost to Cheltenham Town and Doncaster Rovers both by the 2-1 score-line, some might think that these results were just as shocking than the Bolton Wanderers result. In the first twenty-eight games of the season they lost six time, they have since lost the last three games on the bounce. They are sure to turn things around again once a new manager is in place. They were reported to be far down the line with Roy Keane which then fell through they are now talking to Alex Neil the former Norwich City manager which is very far down the line. I am hearing that Alex took training today ahead of the game against the Wombles. Which means they will be back to their extremely competitive selves. With all that in mind its hard to know right now which Black Cats will turn up at Plough Lane on Saturday.

The flip side to the confusion, mystery and surprise will be in the away dressing room the Dons have fallen into a Scottish plucky loser mentality with ease this year. After a great start to the season Wimbledon have not won this year and is in the worst set of results of Mark Robinson's management. They have not been outplayed in many of those games but for me it would be something miraculous for the Wombles could win this one. They will work hard, battle but then let something slip and not bounce back from it or even sneak a lead and then lose their heads and fail to hold onto that lead again. There is a large chunk of frustration in that sentence but that to me is the issue at the moment. When they lead suddenly they want to be perfect at the back when just before they scored they were playing great stuff only to score and then fall apart.

Lets see what the weekend brings...

For some reason I had to do the cards on a difference slide!!

Brief Summary of the match

Dons denied a second penalty because they were playing a big club and you can only give one penalty against a big club per game. The penalty that was given was cancelled out by a fantastic free kick into the top corner. This entertaining draw we one side trying to win it and the other desperately trying to cling onto a point. Well until the referee who thought it was Christmas sent off one of the Dons off and the away side woke up. No more goals added and a point each.

#Number Name - [Score] (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev [7]

Had to come and collect some tough crosses but they had one shot on target and it went in. He did not have a bad game but wasn't called on to do that much today. Sorry its not his fault but you could blame the opposition for that I guess.

#5 - Will Nightingale [8]

At the heart of the defence and was very solid and had a good game. He may have been one of the three of four that brought down the Alex Prichard that gave them the free kick goal but he cannot be blamed for that one flying in.

#6 - George Marsh [8]

Did not put a foot wrong. Well, OK he did but he didn't do much wrong and worked hard to correct his errors. Pulled the strings in front of the back four and won every tackle I noticed. What a signing he was particularly being unsung and not used for half the season.

#9 - Sam Cosgrove [8]

The first real game that I have got to see Sam playing in the role that he was brought to the club for. He did ok and the one thing that stood out for me with Sam was when he lost the ball he battled back to regain possession rather than waiting for someone else to do it. He was exactly like Pressley in that he was left alone up there to win headers and bring others in to the game which he did. Didn't get on the scoresheet again so that wait continues.

#10 - Ayoub Assal [8]

He got so many players booked today including himself. Got kicked all over the pitch and still got up and run at the defence. There is more to come from him in the future if he gets some protection from the officials he will punish teams. The first part of the sentence is very hard to happen.

#11 – Ethan Chislett [8]

One of his better performances, he is a good team player and pops up with important touches here and there but is lacking that special something. He did well today and I don't want to be negative here as he did so well today.

#12 - Jack Rudoni [8]

I heard someone saying how non-existent he was and what all the fuss is about. He won two clear cut penalties today OK he was only given one of them and pulled the strings around the opposition penalty area. For the whole game, he works so hard in the final third that with games like today he really deserves more than he gets. Three points for example.

#21 – Luke McCormick [7]

Got on the scoresheet with his penalty but then got himself sent off late on. Was in a defensive position for most of the game then got the opportunity to move further forward but that didn't really work for him. When he was sent off I honestly thought it was the Sunderland player that was going and not him. I was far away but seeing it again I can see why he was sent off but can't remember what he did to get the first card. Not much.

#22 - Ben Heneghan (c) [8]

Along with Will at the heart of the defence another solid performance back there. The free kick flying in was not down to him. Errors are slowly coming out of the game which may you never know lead to our first win of the year. However, the search for that still continues.

#37 - Paul Osew [9]

What a performance from Paul today. Defensively secure and attacking was even better than that. He was flying today and if he plays like that every week we will start winning and he won't be in this division for very much longer. What a game today from the boy.

#55 - Lee Brown [8]

The calmness that he brings is amazing, with him there Will seems more composed and listens to him. He confronted the referee for the penalty that wasn't and was right to. He commands his position and if all the back four do this every week the corner is there ready to be turned.

-------THE SUBS-------

Replacing Ethan Chislett

#8 – Anthony Hartigan [7]- in the 76th Minute

Didn't have long to impose himself on the game. Took over at dead-ball duties and pinged the ball about for the final twenty minutes or so. Is more composed than earlier in the season. Growing into himself steadily and will be a good player in the centre of the park for the future.

Replacing Sam Cosgrove

#38 – Aaron Cosgrave [7]- in the 67th Minute

Huffed and puffed and looked like he wanted to score although against a strong and well organised defence he never looked like scoring.

The Officials [6]

What a twat. OK he gave us a penalty then turns down more of a penalty later. He booked 14 players and staff. Let me say that again FOURTEEN cards were waved today. It was not a dirty game and he created his own worse enemy. Waving a card for kicking a ball away when Paul didn't know the flag was up. waving a card for a challenge meant all subsequent had to have cards also. Shocking and surprising how he managed to keep all of the Sunderland players on the pitch is a miracle of man management. It was clear he knew who the big team was in this game, couldn't give a second penalty or a second yellow to one of the seven black cat players he booked. Well he just couldn't could he. I will finish by saying that I went home annoyed because of this twat.

0 (0) Wimbledon v Rotherham United (0) 1

Tuesday 8th February 2022 - Kick-Off 7:45pm

League One

Pre-Game

Typing ahead of the fixtured over the weekend Rotherham United sit top of the table and looking good for a promotion as well. They look good for the League One title as well. They have lost one game less than Wimbledon have won. Travelling up to the New York Stadium earlier in the season they tore the Dons apart and looked one of the most composed teams I've seen all season. The Wombles haven't been dominated in many games this season that I remember but that fixture was definitely one. For me this is going to be one of the toughest home fixtures of the season. It will be a game that will be very interesting to see how the new front line get on against a solid back line that the Millers have. This will be the first game I will see the new signing(s), so it will be interesting to compare this front line with the one from earlier in the season.

The opposition arrive in good form and the Dons still haven't won this year so they could easily be on the end of a whopping. To give you an idea of this Wimbledon travelled to Charlton Athletic and surprisingly had more shots than their hosts and lost 3-2. Rotherham United was at home to unfancied Accrington Stanley had four shots on target compared to Stanley's seven. Leading 1-0 going into the final minutes they manage to concede a penalty and get a man sent off at the same time they still win. A sign of a strong side. Finding a way no matter what. The Dons haven't found a way to win this year at all. Which is why I can see a spanking happening on Tuesday night.

As a prediction, I will moan about the officials not protecting our players and pointing out the fouls given against us that aren't when on our players. This theme is growing and it is getting frustrating, each game. I was so despondent after the last game that coming along to this game will take some motivation on my part. No doubt, I will be there but fear that for the first time in a long time I will be leaving before the final whistle. We will have to wait and see on that one.

Brief Summary of the match

When first placed Rotherham United come into town to face the winless in 2022 Dons it was always going to be all hands to the pumps and nothing short of perfection required to get something out of this game. It proved to be the case as the Mighty Millers left with a single goal and all the points. In a relatively even first half the strength of the away side grew as they ran out (in my eyes) worthy winners. With the Wombles failing to get a shot on target in the second half.

#Number Name - [Score] (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev [7]

Needed his defence tonight but still put in a shift himself as well. Making some important saves. He was eventually beaten at his near post with the only goal of the game. He was not called upon a bit less than expected but that could have been down to the new formation and I am not dressing this up as a 3-4-3 it was a 5-2-3. That said he still performed well.

#3 - Daniel Csoka [7]

Was playing very well and holding the best team in the league at bay along side the other two centre backs. With him at the back Rotherham failed to register a shot on target. However, he did only manage half the game having been forced off at half-time for medical reasons.

#6 - George Marsh (c) [8]

He may not of won the official man of the match award but for me he was about there. Rarely out a foot wrong. He is a terrier and hunts the ball down, he wins possession and then moves it forward. He is what was missing earlier in the season and could easily sit deep with Woody and marshal everything going forward.

#7 – Cheye Alexander [7]

Best right back at the club at the moment, we have no better option in the squad. He is consistent and reliable. You know what you are getting Cheye and he deserves a lot more credit than he gets. I guess he is in one of those positions that you can never really see how well he performs as no one is interested in that side of the game.

#8 – Anthony Hartigan [6]

Not his best game, although not an awful performance from him. He was pinned back for most of it. However, the reason behind the score was lack of cutting edge balls into the box from dead-ball situations. It was not a case of a lack of opportunities with the free kicks given in Rotherham's half. Corners on the other hand were few and far between. Let me check - no we had NO corners in this game at all.

#9 - Sam Cosgrove [7]

This was the first game I saw Sam in Dons colours. He made his own space to shoot. Put himself about and battled hard against a solid back line of the league leaders. Had his shot saved and then never really looked like scoring but he is there to create attacks and bring the midfield into the attack with his hold up play. He will play worse and get a higher score from me.

#10 - Ayoub Assal [7]

Man of the match according to the sponsors. Like the whole team he worked really hard all night although never really getting in on goal. Up against a solid back line he battled without any reward. I couldn't see him as Man of the Match but there you go.

#12 - Jack Rudoni [7]

Like many other players on the night he worked really hard without any results which didn't stop him trying and trying. He didn't get much support up front as the back five failed to push up much in the second half. There was much more fluidity in the first half which dried up as the game went on before resorting to thumping the ball into the box for the last five minutes.

#18 - Nesta Guinness-Walker [7]

Nesta returned to the first team with Lee Brown out with an injury and the only goal of the game came from a passing move down our left. Just saying. He and Anthony were caught in no mans land and the ball was passes easily around them, A ball into the middle and Heneghan was beaten to the ball and it was game over. He seems ok going forward but in a ultra high defensive game he was caught in the wrong half of the field when they built their attack from the back.

#22 - Ben Henneghan [8]

Solid and reliable as ever was too slow to react to the attack which was scored just in front of him and then managed to take a shot heading into the top corner and head it onto the crossbar and then away. Defended like a warrior and I have just typed my way into moving his score up one to an eight. I will stop now as it may go up again.

#30 - Paul Kalambayi [8]

I remember him losing possession and then getting caught out of position a couple of times but returning after a lengthy period out it was a surprise to see him named in the squad let alone starting against a team that finished the night 9 point clear at the top. Goal wasn't down his channel although they did come close a few times and I just want to be generous for the newly fit retuning defender.

-------THE SUBS-------

Replacing Daniel Csoka

#5 – Will Nightingale [7]- at Half-Time

From the solid performance of the first half will came on at half time and got booked almost immediately. He watched a forward walk past him to shoot and was pulled over to block a cross that then left space behind (which wasn't really his fault) but led to a goal. The only goal. He would make a great central defensive midfielder with Marsh pushed further up the field if we play with PK and Ben behind him. Just a thought but from a solid first half Will arrived and so did their offence.

Replacing Ayoub Assal

#16 – Terry Ablade [6]- in the 67th Minute

After the really exciting entrance on his debut Terry has flattered to deceive with his obvious pace he has not had an opportunity to showcase it. He was still in the trenches fighting to win the ball where I fell he wants to be galloping over the fields in the speed show of power, pace, and strength with some goals on the end of those runs as well. So far those opportunities have not arrived and he has not shown very much at all on the attacking front.

Replacing Cheye Alexander

#21 – Luke McCormick [6]- in the 81st Minute

Not sure what to score him as he did very little in the nine minutes plus injury that he got on the pitch. We resorted to hoofing the ball into the box and he didn't get on the end of any and he didn't delivery any quality either. So in a reverse of Ben I am going to take his score down one to six as he didn't get much chance in this one. Don't blame me for his score have a word with the substitute coach. e

The Officials [9]

Credit where it is due the officials were about spot on tonight. He and the official in front of me didn't get the big calls wrong. Offered even opinion on decisions unlike the last referee he called things both ways. The last chap's arm only pointed one way. This is what a set of official should be doing, calling things as they see it. You cannot expect every decision to be perfect and sometimes it is easy to forget that they are human and get things wrong. These guys were honest and didn't take any shit from either side which is all

2 (1) AFC Wimbledon v Cheltenham Town (2) 2

Saturday 1st February 2022 - Kick-Off 7:45pm

League One

Pre-Game

Form and confidence could be really key in this match up as the mid-season slump in form has hit both sides. Both will see this game as an opportunity to change their form and start back on the road to survival in League One. The teams have met here before this season with a pulsating 4-3 result in the FA Cup (see below). Neither have won this year and both are low on confidence. This could easily be a great game for the neutrals or just as easily be a tense tactical stale affair. Both play a 4-2-3-1 formation which could mean attacking and flowing or nullifying and counter acting. The result will be of major importance to kick-start a revival or a slump - who knows.

Brief Summary of the match

If I walked out of the Ipswich game annoyed and frustrated little did, I know that this night was looming. There were lots of positives eventually but for me the negatives have stuck in my head, and I cannot shift them. They tried something different with a 3-5-2 formation after last time. The Dons took a 10th minute lead against a side who haven’t won since November. Should have seen them rocked. None of it. Thirty minutes in and an error gifts a goal and the Dons were stunned and panicked. Three minutes later and a penalty gives the Robins the lead. The difference now was they dug in and did not want to concede. The Dons pushed and pushed and was good for the equaliser that eventually arrived in the 80th minute from substitute Cosgrave. The one sided second half didn’t produce another goal and yet another home draw. My patience however has nearly worn out.

#Number Name - [Score] (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev [7]

I am not blaming Nik for either goal and was called to make some important saves towards the end. He gave away a penalty and no it was little different to the three penalty appeals that were waved away but the referee has screwed his score but that is how it goes sometimes. It wasn’t a pen for me but what do you expect from officials that have been anti-dons all season.

#5 - Will Nightingale [6]

From the battling performance of Saturday to the high ball over the top and no clue what to do about it. Fell for it for both goals that five minutes of complete lack of confidence just baffles me. The goal changed us as soon as the Dons led the entire team suddenly wanted to do everything perfect and over thought everything they did. If you play the way you start the score above will be higher and the points column in the table will look so much better.

#6 - George Marsh [8]

With Woody still on the recovery trail another battling performance was required from George and he delivered. He was one of the best Dons on the pitch tonight won tackles and tried to move the ball forward. However, went backwards too often to warrant his usual nine. Was another that wanted to be foot perfect when they had the lead when just playing would have been a better option.

#7 – Cheye Alexander [7]

A more solid defensive right back in comparison with Paul Osew and in fairness puts better crosses into the mixer that Paul as well. That said Paul has been terrifying the opposition left backs in recent weeks and it must have been a difficult decision. Not a bad performance from Cheye was taken off when chasing the game which may say something, but he must be getting used to that by now.

#8 – Anthony Hartigan [7]

The dead ball specialist couldn’t deliver a goal from a host of free-kicks towards the end. There was a bunch of corners and nothing doing there. His passing from midfield was good but had this habit of going backwards again. There is being patient and then there is getting to the edge of the penalty area and passing it back to the keeper. Frustrating.

#10 - Ayoub Assal [8]

Extremely hard to score him as he worked hard got a well taken early goal and then got pulled and kicked around the park with little support from the officials again. Won two penalties which weren’t given from the bias officials. Not sure a free kick and a yellow is much compensation when you are getting frustrating night ends in swollen ankles and bruises game after game. Worked hard for the rest of the time when victim to common assault.

#12 - Jack Rudoni [8]

Tonight’s man of the match for me. Got the ball and didn’t give it away. Made runs, beat players, attacked, and brought his teammates into attacking positions. No goals and no assists but that didn’t take the shine away from the industrious right winger (tonight). Nearly got one but was unlucky what a talent that needs to be nurtured and has all the hallmarks to be great.

#17 - Terry Ablade [7]

Again, another hard-working performance from Terry but again nothing fell for him, and I would say for the second game running never really looked like scoring. That could be down to lack of glasses and attacking the far end for the first half. He looks fast and needed the passes that they were making rather than the high searching balls that he must compete with in the air. He wants them over the top so he can belt after them. This didn’t happen.

#21 - Luke McCormick [7]

I don’t have much gripe with Luke tonight really worked hard found his passes and battled hard in the attacking parts of the pitch whilst looking to set things in motion going forward. Dead balls were taken off him with Anthony back in the starting line-up.

#22 - Ben Henneghan (C) [6]

Mr Consistency did not show up tonight, both he and Will looked lost after taking the lead. He was always good with high balls over the top and dealt with them well tonight they were trying to perfect where hoofing it out of the back might be needed in the parts of the game. So many times, they looked to pass out from the back and brought the problems on themselves. Second half was much better again but they wanted to defend until they conceded, and they instantly looked dangerous when the scores were level.

#55 - Lee Brown [7]

Lee appears to be the average left back that we wanted. Nothing special and that was exactly want we wanted. The ball over the top is dealt with, with composure as opposed to the spider in the bath when you switch the light on and scurry’s around in a panic, that we had before. He brings a calmness that was might be better applied in the centre of the defence. Particularly after a goal has been scored.

-------THE SUBS-------

Replacing Terry Ablade

#38 – Aaron Cosgrave [7]- in the 63rd Minute

He is still young and showed signs of both amazing ability and tempestuous behaviour when frustrated. Replaced Terry and looked a threat as the Dons looked to find an equaliser. Being on top helped him show a presence in the game. It is a shame that Terry didn’t have that benefit but he took full advantage scoring his debut goal. It was well taken and then pushing for a winner decided to beach volleyball push the ball into the box with his hand in the 96th minute. Earning him a yellow card and ending the final attack of the night.

Replacing Luke McCormick

#11 – Ethan Chislett [7]- in the 67th Minute

Looked like attacking threat as opposed to the run ten yards forward pass it twenty yards back of recent months. It helps when he has support as he is never going to be a beat everyone and round the keeper type player. He will get crosses in and set things up given the chance.

Replacing Cheye Alexander

#37 – Paul Osew [7]- in the 81st Minute

Not afraid to run at defenders which makes him well liked by the fans. I want to see some better crosses on the end of those runs. He will beat three defenders get to the edge of the box then cross the ball to the keeper’s hand or the corner flag. Dragging it back every now and again would be better option and a surprise every now and again.

The Officials [5]

Just another example of a referee being impartial in favour of the opposition. I do not know what our forwards have got to do for the officials to see the pulling of the shirts the pushing the hacking down the common assault at one time that seems to go unpunished. He waved more cards than most, but they just rotated the fouls to keep everyone on the field. Three solid penalty shouts turned down and the clash between forward and keeper when the keeper gets the ball ends in a penalty. How can they see what isn’t there and yet cannot see things right under their nose’s? The official in front of us was ten yards from Assal’s shirt being removed mid game. The flag stayed down. Three hacks at his ankles and Assal stays up gets pushed over into another player *Peep* free kick to them. I have no idea who we have to bribe or sleep with to get an even rub of the green with these officials. The last penalty I remember was on the 23rd of November against a side lower than us in the table, strange that isn’t it.

1 (1) AFC Wimbledon v Shrewsbury Town (0) 1

Saturday 29th January 2022 - Kick-Off 3:00pm

League One

Pre - Match

An opportunity for both sides to change their form, with both sides looking to keep their League One places it will be a battle for the three points. No win will come easy for either of these teams and both will go into the game thinking this is winnable which I hope means it serves up a good game. Obviously both sets of fans will be wishing for three points that a win will bring and who knows how important those points will be come the 46th league game of the season.

Brief Summary of the match

First half domination gave the Dons a thirteenth minute lead, plenty of chances created in the first half that never came to adding to their tally. The cool and calm defensive four were beaten in the second half and the energy just left the home side. Confidence grew in the Shrews and the game evened out to a battle which appeared to of gone in any direction. In the end it didn't go in either and the points were shared.

#Number Name - [Score] (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev [9]

Some good saves from Nik today, wasn’t called upon that much today as the rest of the squad played out a midfield battle which in fairness should have seen the wombles claiming the three points but again a single defensive error throws two points away. Not his fault for the goal and got a touch on the ball which on another day goes off for a corner. Today it goes in and we share the points.

#5 - Will Nightingale [8]

Lots of chat with new signing Lee all the way through the first half. He didn’t cover himself in glory with the goal but was bullied throughout without much support from the officials. Glad he is back as we have some real fight at the back now. Need to concentrate for the whole 90 minutes to ensure those points.

#6 - George Marsh [9]

What another great performance from George since being selected to fill the boots of injured captain Woodyard. He has made the spot his own. For me should now sit ahead of Hartigan in the pecking order for match selection now. Pulls the strings and creates attacks from the back and more importantly for me pushes the ball forward quicker than in recent months.

#10 - Ayoub Assal [8]

Got on the scoresheet today which feels like a very long time coming. I cannot remember his last goal. Got little protection again today but battled hard up until his departure. Could and maybe should of got more today but not to be today. Will have to wait on his hat-trick then shall we.

#11 - Ethan Chislett [8]

I usually hate writing reviews for Ethan as he flatters to deceive and never has an end product for his attacking mindset. Today he set up the only Dons goal and worked hard in the attacking third. I think he need to score more than he does, to warrant staying for many years.

#12 - Jack Rudoni [8]

What a hard working disappointing display today. He busted his chops today beat players won possession, tackled and thought for the ball all day long. Then had no end product that his hard work deserved. He really flattered to desieve today. Beat players like they weren’t there only to cross to the other corner flag. When firing on all cylinders is unplayable, today he showed that he can do it but was unable to finish this performance off with anything substantial.

#17 - Terry Ablade [7]

Worked hard and chased everything but the striker position in this set up is a hiding to nothing. Doesn’t have the height to win the headers, he need the ball in behind to use his pace which never happened today at all. He worked hard but never looked like scoring today.

#21 - Luke McCormick [8]

What a hard worker for the team, both he and George really bring something to this team. Playing side by side in the defensive third they put on a great display today. He is not scared to shoot which is fantastic now he has to start to hit the target and his career will skyrocket. Another good performance from Luke.

#22 - Ben Henneghan (C) [8]

Mr Consistency showed up again today and I wouldn’t expect anything else. Another solid defensive display against a Steve Cotterill side that will launch the ball into the area at every opportunity. He dealt with most of it today although may not of stopped the goal he did everything else bar that.

#37 - Paul Osew [8]

Another great performance from Paul when attacking he can beat anyone and brought some intelligence to his game. He is growing as a player and deserves to keep his place in the team with the attacking runs and forward thinking he could develop into a true Dons legend if he can keep this going.

#55 - Lee Brown [8]

A debut for Lee who has competed against the Dons many times but today he wore the yellow and blue and played at Plough Lane. It will be hard to explain how but he brought a calm to the back four, but they seemed solid today and there wasn’t a feeling of panic every time the away side attacked. He was talking to Will throughout the first half in front of me and no doubt through the second half. I hope this is something he’ll keep throughout the season.

-------THE SUBS-------

Replaced Ethan Chislett

#8 - Anthony Hartigan [7]- in the 60th Minute

Brought on with thirty minutes left and took over dead-ball duties. Which meant slinging in some good corners and shared some awful free-kicks which didn’t scare anyone. In open play he didn’t show that much had time to make a shot for himself but couldn’t get it under control and the chance was gone. That aside not much else to crow about.

Replaced Terry Ablade

#38 - Aaron Cosgrave [7]- in the 73rd Minute

Replaced Terry Ablade and looked more like scoring although seemed a little out of place with the team. To try and clarify that confusing statement he looks like a good player and one that will work well in this team but looks like he would feed off of a big man winning headers and setting him up. We seem to have a team built to feed off of a big, strong hold up man and now we don’t have one.

Replaced Ayoub Assal

#50 - Tomas Kalinauskas [7]- in the 81st Minute

Making his debut for the Dons Tomas seemed to show promise and ran at the opposition when given the chance. Didn’t get much of a chance in the 9 minutes + the extra 5 but we saw very small shoots appearing. He was described as a winger so this may be a different role for him but didn’t seem out of place today.

The Officials [7]

Another game of frustration of the officials the linesman this side of the pitch had an arm that only went one way. The referee seemed to only see fouls going one way. What annoys me is the inconsistency to himself. Shrews player kicks the ball away at 0-0 nothing. Assal does the same thing and gets a ticking off. Back to 1-1 and they can kick the ball way from a free kick - nothing. Chislett gets pushed over and gives away a free kick. Will gets pushed over in the penalty area and gives away a free kick. Meanwhile elsewhere today Oxford gets four penalties in one game. We haven't been given a penalty since away at Lincoln City, yet every game we get lumps kicked out of the attacking four.