Match and Player Ratings - No. 1

After the last game I thought I'd start to rate the players as there were some complete opposite opinions at the last game. I can see why people are getting frustrated, I travelled to Arsenal, Shrewsbury Town, and Rotherham United on a Tuesday night so I feel I've earnt the right to air my opinions. I will log the scores and keep a track and then try and do this every game I attend. I will begin with the home game against Burton Albion.

Pre-Kick Off

AFC Wimbledon v Ipswich Town

Tuesday 25th January 2022 - Kick-Off 7:45pm

League One

The Oppo

An opponent that confuses me off the field. They have Premier League money but cannot muster up a promotion since joining League One. Someone needs to tell their fans that they are in League One and not just a Premier League team on vacation. They have plenty of advantages in terms of one of the largest stadiums in this league which they fill regularly. With that brings them money which they plough into the team rather than updated that stadium. They are a member of the chosen few have the pick of the cream of League One best players. They started the season at the bottom of the table and stuck with the manager. They then improved moved up the table had some bad results so sacked him. They are back winning matched so this will roll into Plough Lane expecting a nice easy three points.

The Wombles

Having gained three points this month by scoring just one goal which translates into three draws on the bounce. Half-empty is six without a win or half-full its three without defeat you decide your opinion. The overriding issue for me is nursing one of the worst home records in the division. For me I will have another home game to review and one that I go into more with hope than expectation. This concern grew as the week went on and the news of sale of the main striker Ollie Palmer to National League Wrexham. We then learned that the injury to club captain Woodyard was worse than hoped and he will be out for a month. Which was followed by news that centre back was also ruled out. So with a depleted squad the Dons face promotion hopefuls knowing they have more games in quick succession where their broken bodies will need to keep battling through. Oh, and another thing to note, the last goal the Dons scored at Plough Lane was on the 27th November 2021. Nigh on two months ago, but with the fixtured cancelled it is not as bad as it may sound.

The Match

Its 19th verses 9th as the Tractor boys come to visit a full Plough Lane for the first time. (yes they have been here before but not with actual people inside). With one of the worse home records in the league I thought a comparison of form might be interesting. Looking at the last eight home games compared to the last eight away games. The Dons at home have two defeats, five draws and just a single victory, while Ipswich have won three away games, with four defeats with a single draw. It would appear that the smart money will be on an away win or maybe a draw. What is interesting is that both teams have had nine league defeats so far this season the difference being that Ipswich Town have found ways to win compared to the Dons who have not been able to hold onto leads but have clawed their way back into gaining points here and there. I will say this many times this season but this one comes down if the officials protect the fast breaking Dons forwards or if they are intimated by the money and stars from Suffolk.

AFC Wimbledon (0) 0

v

Ipswich Town (0) 2

Burns 61' & 86'

Quick Summary

It has been a long time since I left a game this angry (well maybe frustrated). The Dons played a top team off the park second half and still managed to lose via two breakaway goals. The worry again is the lack of goals from the attacking four but the post was hit twice. Although one of those was after the ref had stopped play. I will get back to the referee later.

d lost to two breakaway goals. The referee gave little protection and should of not been so intimated by the Premier League (on vacation) The irony of the little club forced into a busy schedule due to clubs with much larger squads unable to field a team because of covid-19. Then have the ever present centre back out due to a positive test. The two sides played out a goalless draw despite the best efforts of both sides in what turned out to be an even contest.

Name Score (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev 8

Not a bad performance when conceding two goals. You could argue that he should/could of done better with the first goal but I think that would be harsh. With that aside made important saves and performed well.

#3 - Daniel Csoka 8

Seems to have ironed out his errors from his game recently and that is a complement to him. You could almost count on him making an error leading to a goal each game but hasn't done that in the last two games. He was very tidy tonight the breakaway goals both came from the right wing and he wasn't there to do anything about that.

#6 - George Marsh 9

Another great performance from him, he had his finger on the pulse of all starting action for the dons. He has slotted into that position well and was like a terrier chasing a bone. Never wanted anything to get passed him and he won the ball and moved it forward. It was good to watch and long may this form continue.

#10 - Ayoub Assal 8

He looked good and was attacking whenever possible. Was given some protection but many of the important decision seemed to be missed or ignored and went against him for large parts. With his pace if he had the strength to not get thrown around would be the makings of a great player. Without this we need the protection of the official for him to perform. It will happen won't it.

#11 - Ethan Chislett 8

Possibly the best performance I've seen from Ethan in a Dons shirt he was everywhere. He loves to run at defenders which was evident tonight. He has a habit of getting there and turning around and passing the ball back to where he had just come from. Yes, he did that tonight but not as much as usual and battled all night long and did not get the rewards he deserved tonight.

#12 - Jack Rudoni 8

Worked really hard and won the ball in attacking positions. Starting many of the positive attacking options tonight he like the whole team didn't get the rewards the efforts deserved. He was not really too involved in the first half but made the game his own.

#18 - Nesta Guiness-Walker 7

I am not going to say he had a poor game as I don't think he did a lot wrong. What did happen was both breakaway goals came from his side and he didn't stop them. He is the left back and both goals came that side so how can I give him more than a seven?

#21 - Luke McCormick 8

For me playing out of position in a more defensive role but exploded forward early in the second half only to be scythed down and won a free kick. The last man was booked and the free kick was blasted over so the crime goes unpunished. He was another that deserved more than the nowt he actually got. I hope this changes as the season continues as he deserves more.

#22 - Ben Henneghan (C) 8

Newly promoted to the captain's position Ben showed his quality and the reason why I think he is the most reliable member of this squad. The only part missing from his game is getting on the end of more free kicks and corners and notching a few.

#37 - Paul Osew 8

Worked his socks off again tonight was up and down the right wing umpteen number of times. Created chances at one end and prevented anything at the other end. Worked really hard again and should not of been on the losing side tonight.

#38 - Aaron Cosgrave 7

I think this was Aaron's first start for us and there were glimpses of what he can do. He hit the post when the referee had already blown for a foul. Little touches here and there but if I am honest never looked like scoring outside of that. He worked hard in a really tough position of working as a centre forward alone.

-------THE BENCH-------

#8 - Anthony Hartigan 7

(replaced Ethan Chislett - 63rd min)

Came on just after the first goal for the more attacking Ethan, didn't set the world on fire but it was good to see him back in the squad after some time away from the pitch with injury. Didn't look out of place but equally never looked like creating a goal.

#17 - Terry Ablade 7

(replaced Aaron Cosgrave - 67th min)

Had his first attempt on goal, which was a toe poke when his pace got on the end of a ball destined for the keeper. Not getting enough of the ball to do any damage and the keeper got something on it and cleared it away. He has lightening pace, we will have to wait and see if he can get something on the end of it at this level.

#16 - Dapo Mebude 7

(replaced Paul Osew - 82nd min)

Not given a huge amount of time but replacing a wing-back it must appear like a positive move to try and get back into the game. I hate to say it but nothing really came off for Dapo again and he didn't look like scoring tonight. His tricks don't seem to be working currently and his great assist of pace isn't able to show itself either. He was muffled and caged and needs to come up with a new plan.

The Officials 7

Desperate not to be controversial made him controversial in my eyes. There was plenty of times to give equal amount of decisions but decided to go with the big expensive side instead. The sending off could of been much earlier if he nipped in the bud. A one point there was five attempts to take out Assal before he finally blew for a free kick. The lino in front of the main stand gave every decision one way. Didn't see one offside in the first half then plenty int he second. They did not impress me. This could just be my frustration with night in general rather than the officials alone. h

**** Reviews ****

AFC Wimbledon v Portsmouth

Tuesday 18th January 2022 - Kick-Off 7:45pm

League One

The Oppo

Lets hope the vast squad of Pompey don't come down with the sniffles on the back of the covid-19 outbreak that preventing them play the initial game. Stacking the fixtures up that feeds nicely in their favour as a big teams and against the small squad that is working twice as hard as their counterparts. The pomp turn up at Plough Lane on a Tuesday night for their second visit on a Tuesday evening with the last one being in the EFL Trophy where they fielded a team of youngsters and reserves. However, this game will be very different as league points will be on offer, which they will want and will most probably get with their 'first choice' team fighting for promotion.

The Wombles

Finally gaining a clean sheet in the last game attention turns to the other end of the pitch with no goals in the last four games. The slide towards the foot of the table needs to be halted with some tough times ahead. Starting with this evening kick-off in the cold of a January night. I guessed that the squad will be down to the bare bones of defenders will not able to spend fortunes bringing in plenty of back ups to keep this fixture on. Having played on Wednesday - Saturday - Tuesday - Saturday prior to this game. Points are required from now until the end of the season.

The Match

With the home side fighting at the bottom and the big spending Pompey fighting at the top of the table. It is good to see that they have learnt from going into administration and nearly folding that they contacted the Wombles who helped them set themselves up and rise again. They come into this game after an away defeat to Cambridge United and a home defeat to someone. Prior to those the last defeats happened in the same week back in October. With only Gillingham gaining less points from home games the Wombles will be looking to improve that stat.

AFC Wimbledon (0) 0

v

Portsmouth (0) 0

Quick Summary

The irony of the little club forced into a busy schedule due to clubs with much larger squads unable to field a team because of covid-19. Then have the ever present centre back out due to a positive test. The two sides played out a goalless draw despite the best efforts of both sides in what turned out to be an even contest.

Name Score (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev 9

Scoring Nik down in recent games for not having to do anything, tonight he made some great and important saves. For that and recent games I will give him a little bonus point for two clean sheets on the bounce and two points to go with it also. Solid performance and well deserved.

#3 - Daniel Csoka 8

Far and away his best performance in a Wimbledon shirt for me. Cleared a certain goal off the line and was rock solid at the back tonight. Had a battle with the centre forward most of the night. In previous games he would of made a mistake at some stage with the pressure he was under in previous performances. Lets hope this is the way forward for him.

#4 -Alex Woodyard (C) 9

A captains performance tonight, when dispossessed he made sure he won that ball back within seconds. Commanded the ball and found his passes across the back as well as pulling strings in the attacking third.

#5 - Will Nighingale 8

Won headers, made tackles and marshalled the back four. Couldn't really ask for much more from him. Well maybe he could of got on the end of one the crosses to notch one but that would be asking a lot really.

#6 - George Marsh 9

Another player with his best performance for me. Playing in front of the back four he won possession and even nearly got a goal himself. It is good to see someone that his happy to have a shot. You won't score unless you do.

#7 - Cheye Alexander 8

A good solid performance if not spectacular he did everything expected of him. Sending crosses into the box, defended like a warrior and was looking to attack at every opportunity.

#9 - Ollie Palmer 9

This must of been one of his greatest performances in a goalless draw that I've seen. Made himself available as an out ball. Won possession and defender like a trooper. He was everywhere tonight defending, attacking and creating attacks from the midfield as well. Subbed off before the 90 was up, but he should be used to that and has to be aware of the fixtures coming up.

#12 - Jack Rudoni 8

He did really well but was very unassuming again tonight. I do worry that I give Luke credit for his work, having a similar running style and look. Worked hard but I would suggest that he should have a go more often as he gets into good positions and should try and put an end product on it. He often does the hard work and passes the ball away.

#16 - Dapo Mebude 8

He worked his socks off tonight and put in a real shift. However, some of his contributions included blocking at teammates shot. Getting in the way of an attack and slipping over a few times as well. I really want to see the Dapo from his debut that took on and beat defenders rather than getting beat by the first defender each time. Worked well with Paul most the evening mind you.

#21 - Luke McCormick 8

Bringing shots into his game. Which needs a little work but not being afraid is the important first step. Works hard and was given dead ball duties as well tonight. Could be a gem of the future if he keeps the hard work going.

#37 - Paul Osew 8

Worked his socks off down the left side all night defending and attacking. A few wayward crosses and passes into touch. Pulled all over the place when breaking without much defending from the official. For me has again done enough tonight to keep his spot for Burton Albion away this Saturday.

-------THE BENCH-------

#10 - Ayoub Assal 8

(replaced Dapo Mebude - 64th min)

In the last game I suggested giving Ayoub a rest and he started this one on the bench. He made an impact when arriving with his pace that scared their defenders enough to foul continuously. Shame the ref didn't spot many of them.

#17 - Terry Ablade 7

(replaced Oliver Palmer - 76th min)

Had a bit more time on the pitch tonight. His pace looks electric and would be a good to play alongside Palmer in a twin attack but that would need a 4-4-2 perhaps. I can't see that happening but we can hope can't we.

#18 - Nesta Guiness-Walker 7

(replaced Paul Osew - 84th min)

Had a ten minute cameo replacing Paul Osew. Didn't do anything wrong but I find it strange to change a defender with 84 minutes on the clock. Not as good as Paul tonight but didn't really have long to show himself tonight.

The Officials 6

At one point I suddenly became aware of how much I was moaning at the referee. There was so many lopsided decisions. From blowing for pushing and then I watch the Pompey defender two arms in teh back pushing like crazy and no whistle. The number of times we were breaking only to watch a Covid free defender drag our man down or kick or trip without any sanction. I don't want to moan on here about the official but we got next to no 50/50 decisions. Clearly the Pompey cash was waiting in the changing room.

AFC Wimbledon v Morecombe

Saturday 15th January 2022 - Kick-Off 3:00pm

League One

PREVIEW -

The Oppo

Having watched the Shrimps earlier in the season (not against us) they seemed very tidy and happy going forward. They lost that game but could of come away with much more than they did. They found themselves 3-0 down against Doncaster Rovers at half time recently. They recovered came out second half and scored four to win that game. They had a 'plum' tie away against Spurs which will give them some money to strengthen. They also led that game for 41 minutes and were only behind for 5 minutes by eventually losing 3-1 with 2 goals against in the last 5 minutes. Let me tell you that they might be near the bottom of the table but they are a good team and will feel like they could leave with three points from this game.

The Wombles

After getting up a head of steam and some good performances they were thwarted by Covid-19 and some bigger teams that couldn't field a team but could for the EFL trophy games. Momentum has not just faltered but has stopped and reversed back over a cliff. I am not claiming to have seen it but the Dons were awful against Oxford United in the last game of 2021. Made worse with the incompetent, inept, incapable, and without attacking invention performance against a non-league side in the F.A. Cup. Morale will be low after that performance and I am guessing even lower after the draw for the fourth round. Can they pick themselves up for this game will be interesting. The players had a game on Tuesday which had a referee robbed them of a point before this game but I won't dignify that with any further comment.

The Match

20th host 21st in a bottom of the table clash. There is just two points between them but two games with the Dons playing 22 games compared to 24 for Morecombe. Morecombe come into this on a high after running Premier League Spurs to the wire and pulling off some great results including turning a 3-0 reverse into a 4-3 win. The Dons are down (on morale) with defeats to Oxford United followed by being dumped out of the F.A. Cup to Conference side Boreham Wood. I fear 2022 will be a case of waiting for a spark for the Dons to start playing well again. This could be that spark or it could be another reason to become further in the dumps.

AFC Wimbledon (0) 0

v

Morecombe (0) 0

Quick Summary

Two teams at the bottom of the table played out a goalless. It was a much better game than that sentence suggests but no goals today.

Name Score (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev 8

I have toyed with a 7 or an 8 for Nik due to the back four protecting him so well. It was recorded as one shot on target and I cannot remember it that much. He did all that was required and was beaten at his near post late on when the ball whistled wide from a point blank header. I was unsure what to score as he did not have much to do. However, it was a first league home clean sheet so that deserves noting.

#4 -Alex Woodyard (C) 9

Was involved all over the pitch. For me George took up his role allowing him to play more of Hartigan's role being more advanced. He pulled the strings in the middle third and came into his own in the second half making those in front of him the means to attack. It was a shame that none of that resulted in a goal. Which would of won the game.

#5 - Will Nighingale 8

Slotted back into the centre of the defence with Ben and they had everything under control for this game. Restricting a potent offence to three chances and looked the most comfortable that I have seen in ages. It was good to see him but it is tinted with a fear that we have game after game with legs that may not stay the course as he has just returned for injury.

#6 - George Marsh 8

Another returning from injury to a first team start. Slotting in front of the back four he was there was to mop up anything and pass it forward. Loves a dink ball into the box and it nearly worked so many times. I would describe this performance as a good stepping stone to more regular games.

#7 - Cheye Alexander 8

What a well organised defence with him back in it. He was always willing to offer the overlap although there was periods were it felt like the others in blue could not see him. I will use the term used him by not using him. Crossing was a bit hit and miss today but a home clean sheet has to be noted to defence today.

#9 - Ollie Palmer 7

OP was on for his lowest ever score form me with a six but I talked myself into giving him an extra point. Should of scored but for a great save from their keeper. Today it seemed like if there was two option situation he seemed to pick the wrong one. Some days it just happens, the rumour mill will say his head was turned by a bid from Wrexham, which I don't believe myself. I think it was just a bad day at the office.

#10 - Ayoub Assal 7

I think he needs a break. He plays every game and is getting less and less protection from referees. He was thrown around at stages and got nothing. Yet conceded free kick for next to nothing, is it fair? No Way. For me, from the start he had to the season he is now a victim and one that referee ignore.

#12 - Jack Rudoni 7

From bursting onto the scene Rudi was not noticed in the first half. That could be that we were attacking the other end. Saw much more of him in the second but the forwards job is to score goals and that didn't happen today. All down to him NO! he will play worse and score so not all doom and gloom here.

#21 - Luke McCormick 7

Luke appears to be one of few midfielders not afraid to shoot. Worked hard without any results, he is growing on me every week. Similar look to Rudi so not always easy to tell those two apart so he may be stealing some of Jack's glory.

#22 - Ben Heneghan 8

A member of the back four that gave us the first league clean sheet at home. It shows he is a worthy member of the back four and works well with a partner there. Not the most effective in the oppositions box but that isn't his job. His task is to keep the ball out of our net and he did that today.

#37 - Paul Osew 8

One of the best performances from Paul that I have seen. Defending a clean sheet to the end and was very effective when attacking down the channels. For me he has done well enough to keep his starting spot for the next game. He was available and chased down everything and beat the right back over and over again. No end product may of move him to a nine but good game well played.

-------THE BENCH-------

#16 - Dapo Mebude 7

(replaced Jack Rudoni - 84th min)

My doubts about Dapo continued with a good performance from the bench which included some runs and moving forward to attack every time. No end product and no penetration of their defensive line. Never looked like scoring and that is why he is in the team.

#25 - Egli Kaja 7

(replaced Ayoub Assal - 84th min)

Egli will run at defenders and is happy to do so. As soon as he is on the pitch, I wish he had a better end product at the end of the runs but makes defenders worry so must be handful for them. Please find that pass or cross to create something great please!

#17 - Terry Ablade 7

(replaced Oliver Palmer - 89th min)

Had a whole five minutes of his debut, he won a header, got booked and showed lightening pace. Ticked some early boxes and showed enough to want to see him again.

The Officials 6

My quote is for the officials to be consistent with themselves. He wasn't. Blew up for us doing things when not for the opposition. From the furthest possible point I could see the forward fall over with distance between him and the defender that apparently brought him down. No simulation booking or a penalty. Our smaller guys were thrown around but then gave free kicks away for holding. Why push the throw taker back 5-yards and ignore him run 5-yards back to throw the ball in. I am not shouting and screaming now but the ref dragged this score down. The lino's seemed pretty good today and gave fouls both ways as opposed to just those in red.

*** PLAYED GAMES ***

Boreham Wood v AFC Wimbledon

Saturday 8th January 2022 - Kick-Off 3:00pm

F.A. Cup

The Oppo

The Wood are ready and have been waiting to face the Dons since despatching St Albans City in the last round 4-0 on live national television. They are a big solid side that aren't afraid to show how big and strong they are. Having Nile Ranger up front highlights this. Managed by former Don and still a fans favourite Luke Garrard. He has created a great side who has been knocking on the door of the football league. His side sit third in the Vanarama National League Table a point off the top after 18 games. Since beating the Saints they have knocked local rivals Barnet out of the F.A. Trophy (3-2) and beat Woking 2-0 away which is not easy by any stretch. (Woking beat the Wombles pre-season). They had the away game against Barnet and the home game against Wealdstone postponed due to the un-named thing) and are due to play Barnet (AGAIN!) at home on the Sunday 2nd before this fixture.

The Wombles

Since the game below the Dons form has picked up with an away 2-0 win against Accrington Stanley and a draw at title chasing Wycombe Wanderers. A result difficult to sum up as they led for a long period to get pegged back ahead of a very later goal which looked to have gained the 3 points before Wycombe got an even later penalty to salvage a point. They have then had two home games cancelled due to that thing again which has upset the CEO enough to write to the league. Will it change anything no probably not but it is worth a try.

The Match

Pitting a former favourite who is now managing the opposition will always be intriguing and a game some thought might be on TV. I could never see this one being on TV especially after Chelsea v Chesterfield Town not deemed enough for national TV. A shocker when we get to watch Premier League teams against each other instead. I managed to bag tickets for this one so will be attending as long as the attending sporting events rules permit. I have been to the ground before and looking forward to go again. As for the game itself it will be a tough one to call. The Dons will be favourites with the bookies but I have seen us against big physical sides before and that makes me nervous. Being top of the Conference means you would be close to the top of the division above. With two relegated it means teams relax a bit in mid-table and the National League is strong and 'The Wood' are near the top of a tough league and will be a very tough opponent. Lets hope we get to go!

Here is what we are told the formation was!

Boreham Wood (1) 2

Marsh 10', Clifton 86',

v

AFC Wimbledon (0) 0

Quick Summary

For the Wombles F.A. Cup adventure ends with a whimper rather than a bang. Today, was wet horrid and frustratingly tepid. Boreham Wood had two shots on target and Wimbledon had one which came from Chislett in the 90th minute. Wimbledon did not get a grip of the game until the second half when they kept the ball but never really looked like threatening Boreham Wood's goal.

Name Score (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev 6

Two shots on targets two goals does not make for good reading. He did not have too much to do on the defensive side (picking the ball out of the net aside). Was on hand to pass the ball about the back to keep possession but not much beyond that.

#2 - Henry Lawrence 6

When he signed we were told that he could play in the centre back as well as left and right back. Well, today if he was centre back I didn't notice. It almost felt like we played three wing backs across the back with Heneghan sweeping. Whatever the plan was it wasn't obvious to me, he was wide on the right to give the ball away with an awful pass that set up the goal that he couldn't get back for. I rate the player but not his best game.

#4 -Alex Woodyard (C) 7

One of the better players for the dons today but that was nothing special as there were not any player in the Wombles team today that Luke Garrard would want to swap for his team today. He marshalled the midfield well but keeping the ball in your own half when losing is not a hard thing to do. Moving the ball forward and attacking is a trick we need to learn when loosing.

#8 - Anthony Hartigan 6

Dead-ball specialist which was the only time we looked dangerous (we weren't but we looked it). He worked side-by-side with Woody controlled the game from the back which as mentioned before is much easier to do when you are losing and in your own half. There is little or no shining lights today. He did ok today without producing anything that special.

#9 - Ollie Palmer 6

Wandered around the attacking third cut a lonely figure up there. With no other blue shirted people to keep him company in the first forty-five minute. There must be pantomime about being lost in 'the wood' wandering trying to find a friend. They turned up in the second half but there was no real threat and he was starved of the ball from his team-mates and then not protected by the ref when mauled by the thug centre backs.

#10 - Ayoub Assal 6

Ayoub is a player that relies on the protection of the official this did not happen today. He was ineffective despite his best efforts. Didn't really penetrate their back line and when he might have he was thrown to the floor or flattened or pushed over without a whistle to be heard.

#12 - Jack Rudoni 6

I have no idea the position that Rudi was playing in today. His score is based on what he contribution to the game which was minimum in terms of what he is capable of. I didn't notice that he had come off which speaks volumes.

#18 - Nesta Guinness-Walker 6

The first goal didn't shower him with glory, it was only ten minutes into the game whilst I tried to work out the formation (I failed). Was one of the two split with a pass when at the back when The Wood broke in the 10th minute. Lots of huffing and puffing without any real positives to write about here.

#21 - Luke McCormick 6

Luke had a game similar to Rudi in that beyond some touches and attempts at flicked through balls when may be having a pop would have been an option. That aside being a large part of the attacking that had one shot on target until a sub did in the 90th minute, should say why he scored a six.

#22 - Ben Heneghan 6

If Nesta wasn't covered in glory for the first goal then Ben wasn't for the second. He was the only defender for me in the first half with the other two or three depending on exactly what formation were missing in action. He was exposed for the first (not his fault) and was beaten to the cross for the second. They had little to do at the back throughout the game but failed to cope with the two times they had to. The rest of the time they were comfortable.

#37 - Paul Osew 7

Battled from the start and worked hard on the attacking right side in the second half, although never really beat his man down that side but he did bring other players into the attack. Which once again never got very far despite all the panic in the players wanting to create something. Anything. They didn't succeed. Was also poor and diving in for the second goal although no where near for the first goal.

-------THE BENCH-------

#5 - Will Nighingale 7

(replaced Henry Lawrence - 57th min)

I could hear the moans from the negative change in my head but for me this move made sense. If he could only play 30 mins then fine give him 30 plus extra time if needed. The formation made sense with him in it and never did before he arrived. Was it a dramatic change that reset the game and started the amazing recovery? Nope. But for me this made some sense. Whilst signing another forward this week an additional central defender would of been a better quickfire transfer window move in my opinion.

#16 - Dapo Mebude 6

(replaced Jack Rudoni - 65th min)

I think we have a weak replacement line or finishers. Dapo burst onto the first team with a goal from the bench against Bolton and then I haven't seen much more. He scored against Shrewbury but when he arrives on the pitch I do not expect a dramatic change in fortune. It proved the case again today, huffing puffing and no penetration of a solid back four. He never looked like scoring is enough to say about a forward.

#25 - Egli Kaja 7

(replaced Ayoub Assal - 65th min)

Made one dramatic run into the penalty area, gaining an extra point. No end product on the end of it but that is the Egli I remember of old. At least he was prepared to run at the defence rather than run 10 yards forward and passing it 30 yards back. He was looking to go forward every time he got the ball. I wish the better players did the same.

#11 - Ethan Chilett 7

(replaced Luke McCormick - 80th min)

Was one of my least liked forward in the squad but he was a forward today. Only player to have a shot on target and was looking to attack when he got the ball. I don't think he has the ability to remain at this level and I hate to say it but this was one of his better performances I've seen and he fell over whilst trying to shoot in the last seconds of the game. Summed up the whole performance of the team but I respect the effort from the lad. I with the others were as attack minded as he was today.

The Officials 6

On the drive to the game I said the potentially the most important person on the pitch would be the referee. He was weak and a 'homer' as I used to call them. Lets help the lesser team. Off the top of my head I think we got three or four free kicks outside the penalty area. Yet the back four were very 'handy' shirt pulling and pushing that were never spotted when I did from off the pitch. Time wasting was going to happen and anyone at the Lincoln game knows you can card players when time wasting. This started in the opening 15 minutes. Never stopped. The only player pushed back for stealing yards at a throw was ours in the opening 5 minutes. No problem for them in the remaining 85 minutes. I could of built a roof in the time they wasted at restarts. I started counting the length of time the keeper held the ball in the first half. [I start at 1 when the ball is under control - not six when annoyed]. The referee told him to hurry up where a free kick would of stopped that in one go. He held the ball for 20 seconds at one time and got no sanction. All that weakness said it was not his fault we were incompetent, inept, incapable and lacking any attacking ideas. Missed a hand-ball in the build up to the second goal. I was rained on and not happy with us meaning I projected that on him but he didn't help me change that view very much and it didn't after calming down.

Here is how I saw the formation:

Preview

AFC Wimbledon v Cheltenham Town

Saturday 4th December 2021 - Kick-Off 3:00pm

F.A. Cup 2nd Round

The Oppo

The Robins have had a great start to life in League One sitting in 11th place win seven wins and six losses on their record. However, this is just a gauge as the form book goes out the window in a cup tie. They will arrive full of confidence having knocked out Gillingham who are just four points behind the Wombles in the previous round. They have also witnessed the Dons win three of the last ten fixtures. Cheltenham Town are unbeaten in the last five league games and will be rubbing their hands together ahead of a nice third round draw. Using the same formation as the Dons with a 4-2-3-1 formation with Kyle Vassell up front and former Don favourite Chris Hussey at left back. Danger man seems to be Alfie May who has notched eight league goals already with close to 70% shot accuracy. However, goals have been spread across the team making them dangerous across the park.

The Wombles

Being the underdogs is not an unusual position for the Dons but three victories in the last ten games means confidence took a nose dive before bouncing back a bit with a win over Crewe Alexandra midweek. They tried to throw that game away just the same as they did against Fleetwood Town on Saturday. The Dons reached this tie with a very unconvincing 1-0 win over a side four divisions below them. That said this is the F.A. Cup and anything could happen, that why we love the cup.

The Match

The best way to compare the teams is to look at the league table and 17th host 11th in a tie that sees the victors dreaming of a tie against one of the big boys. With the F.A. Cup anything is possible even a 7-4 result (this happened in a tie in the last round). When you draw a team in your division it takes a bit off the edge off the romance as we will see the same fixture in a few weeks time. For me this is an important fixture as this Cup generates cash that is needed for paying off debts and financing of the club and keeping the club afloat. We as a family will be going and hopefully enjoying it.

AFC Wimbledon (2) 4

Assal 36', 55', Palmer 41', 65',

v

Cheltenham Town (1) 3

May 2', Williams 73', Heneghan (OG) 81'

Quick Summary

If ever there was a WTF game then this could be it, based on trying to give the scores below. There was an early goal which was excellently taken by Alfie May. Followed by 70 minutes of dominance for the Dons. Then a breakaway goal led to fifteen minutes of panic and desperate defending trying to keep hold of a lead when the game should of been out of sight long before.

Name Score (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev 8

A really difficult one to score as he had no chance with the goal after 2 minutes. Then had very little to do until the 73rd minute when they broke and took another excellent finish. I think he should take a large chunk of the blame for the own goal for not expecting the header which was always going to happen. Then making a worldie of a save and not done with that made a full stretch save to the prevent the ball going in the top corner in injury time.

#3 - Dan Csoka 8

The recurring theme of an error from Dan leading to goal happened in the first minutes of the game which lead to May scoring on 1 minute 13 seconds. From there he did little else wrong and the following two goals had nothing to do with him. For me after two minutes he was on a 6 and moved up from there.

#4 -Alex Woodyard (C) 8

Controlled the game again, which is par for the course with Alex. One or two bad passes but he and Hartigan bossed 80% of the game. Won the ball passed it forward with allowed the three attacking midfielders the freedom to charge down the defenders and then break. I am tempted to pin him and Anthony together and score them as a pair.

#8 - Anthony Hartigan 8

Along with Woody controlled the game from about minute 10 to minute 70. Helped win possession but more so with Anthony distribution. He seems to take every dead ball and isn’t scared to have a crack from distance anymore. I for one am not going to moan at him for having a go.

#9 - Ollie Palmer 9

My quote during the game is that does Ollie know that he has to get his hat-trick in 65 minutes. Even with a brace notched you knew he was going to leave the field after 65 appeared on the giant screen. Took the tap when it fell to him (being in the right place at the right time) then followed that with an absolute beaut in the second half. Was a nuisance to the back four all game and deserved the nine.

#10 - Ayoub Assal 9

Has found the form that he started the season with. If Ollie was a nuisance to the back four then Ayoub took it to another level. Was launched off the pitch WWE style in the first half and most of known at that stage that he had them worried. Followed that by running everywhere, ran at the back four with the ball and getting on the end of threw balls one of which he slotted home in the first half. Did a similar thing to make it three in the second half. Really hoping he can keep this rich vein of form going for a while. We are a better attacking threat when he does.

#12 - Jack Rudoni 8

When you have an attacking four not all of them will have the success on the day. Today was Rudi’s unlucky day, as he worked hard and battled in the attacking third, but I cannot remember a clear cut chance falling to him. Plenty of running and attacking ability in him and it was demonstrated today but some days things don’t fall your way. A good all-round performance from him.

#18 - Nesta Guinness-Walker 8

He is one of those left back that appears to be better going forward than sitting deep. The robins first goal came down the left although he wasn’t to blame. He did not have much defending to do until the final twenty minutes and then really didn’t do a lot wrong. I was one that didn’t see the green shoots with him, but I am now seeing a good performance creeping into becoming a more regular thing. Fair play to Nesta and long may his growth continue.

#21 - Luke McCormick 9

Luke had three assists today and run the Robins back four ragged. He was everywhere and could have had a hat-trick himself but didn’t score one. Beat the keeper only for Assal to take the shot off of him and then hit the keeper. He was the one that threaded the ball through to Assal to score Wimbledon’s opener and he was the unlucky one who’s shot hit the crossbar that then fell to Palmer to slot home and guess who set up Palmer to curl in the fourth of the day for the Wombles. Yes, you could say he had a great game. If it wasn’t for both Palmer and Assal scoring two he would have had more of the spotlight shed on him.

#22 - Ben Heneghan 7

Another tough one to score as he was at his typical level for most of the game. Then then long ball over the top that he headed past Tzanev and into his own goal. This seemed to fluster the normally stable centre-back as he later muffed gaining possession that led to the looping effort that nearly tied the game in injury time (Thanks again Nik). I will add that I do not blame him completely for he own-goal. As fans around me said at the time it was always going to be headed back, so why Nik stood where he did is beyond me.

#37 - Paul Osew 7

Similar to Nesta on the other side he is better going forward than defending. Which has suddenly just reminded me that in the warm-up they normally line the back four up and practice heading and passing the ball out. Today, the two centre backs did this alone today. Whether that was a signal to Paul to bomb forward at every opportunity I don’t know but he was not the defensive player you would expect playing at right back. When the forwards dominated the large chunk of the game he had little to do but anything over his head then became an issue. I rate Paul and his pace is lethal to defences today he didn’t show this.

-------THE BENCH-------

#6 - George Marsh 7

(replaced Anthony Hartigan - 68th min)

I don’t want to blame the “finishers” but it felt like the game changed when they came on. The wombles were on cruise control and then went into full blown panic mode for the final 20 minutes (including injury time). I cannot say Marsh did anything wrong and its good to see him getting game time to help him improve his match fitness but equally I couldn’t tell you much that he did do.

#19 - Aaron Pressley 7

(replaced Ollie Palmer - 68th min)

Read the first sentence of George Marsh. He didn't like up with the others as well as Palmer and Assal had already done. In his defence 50% of the front line had changed when he was on and the gel had perhaps gone by then. It felt like he was brought on to see out the 4-1 which rapidly changed to a panic.

#24 - Egil Kaja 7

(replaced Ayoub Assal - 69th min)

Read the other subs for notes. It was good to see him back as I have been vocal about how underwhelming his signing was. Which contradicts my feelings as I like the guy and used to like his drive to just run at players. The fact he left us and did very little means I am not convinced he will have the impact I would like a new signing would bring. Time will tell (I guess)

#2 - Henry Lawrence 7

(replaced Paul Osew - 86th min)

With the performance of Osew in the previous game I can only guess that Henry is not match fit or being protected. Getting given 10 minutes at the end of the game he isn’t going to change things. It could be that he is more defensive than Paul which may explain the change but he didn’t get much chance to shine but he did help shore up the defences for the final part of the game which was a real nail biter.

The Officials 8

Not exactly convinced with them as the referee missed a common assault on Assal in the first half and failed to wave a yellow halfway through the first half for time wasting from the Robins. Then had to pull the Dons up for doing the same later in the second half. To be honest at 4-1 there wasn’t much of that business going on at 4-3 things changed. I was not happy with them for most of the first half and was complaining a lot but all in all if they didn’t see the two or three challenges (that they should have) that would have meant cards then you can’t give it. Those grumbles aside most other decisions were fair not sure about our two yellows though. else was done and dusted

The F.A. Cup

The draw happened on Monday evening just before the Boreham Wood v St Albans game and first out of the hat was the winner of that game against Wimbledon who were the second ball out of the tub. Boreham Wood ran away with a comfortable 4-0 win setting up the tie that I would guess will be played on Saturday 8th January at 3pm. Some people thought this may be selected as a live game and at best I'd rank this about 7th or 8th in the order of selection so I would be really surprised if this game is selected for TV. It will see another meeting with former Dons legend of Luke Garrard the manager of 'The Wood' as well as former opponent Nile Ranger. 'The Wood' are second in the national league and look a solid and strong battling opponent which sets up yet another interesting and tough to call encounter.

Preview

AFC Wimbledon v Fleetwood Town

Saturday 27th November 2021 - Kick-Off 3:00pm

League One

The Oppo

Fleetwood Town will take the 268 mile journey to face Wimbledon without a manager as they parted ways with Simon Grayson following a 3-1 defeat to Oxford United. This result comes on the back of a run of eight games without a win. They have picked up a single point in the last six games. From looking at the fans reactions they seemed pleased that Grayson has gone and are looking for an improvement in the team. They are 22nd in the table, two points above bottom club Crewe Alexandra who the Dons played on Tuesday night. Elsewhere and unrelated to the club directly their owner is being charged with fraud and money laundering for his company BES (the clubs main sponsors) does this have any effect on the club? I don't know.

The Wombles

Coming into the game on Saturday on the back of a very impressive performance against Crew Alexandra. They had 28 shots and realistically could of taken at least 6 of them. They scored 3 and then tried to throw the game away in the final 10 minutes. They held on for the first three points for a while and are now looking to do something even rarer with back to back wins. Playing another team in the relegation zone (after Crewe Alexandra) with rising confidence and players returning from injuries, there are reasons to be cheerful. Which is normally when the wombles let you down with a poor performance. Maybe I am being pessimistic but I am coming from past experience.

The Match

18th host 22nd which would mean it would be the last game on match of the day or less than thirty seconds on Quest late on Saturday night. The Dons host on the back of picking up a win on Tuesday night whilst the visitors arrive after a loss to Oxford United which was the final straw for the owners who parted ways with Simon Grayson the manager. It means that the Dons face an unknown entity on Saturday. The squad has not changed but tactics and formations could be anything come 3:00pm Saturday. The Dons will be looking for some from of revenge following the home defeat from last season, which felt like a smash and grab which is what we are supposed to do other teams not the other way around. Should be another interesting game, I just hope its a bit warmer than Tuesday night.

The Game

AFC Wimbledon (0) 2

Assal 54', McCormick 79',

v

Fleetwood Town (1) 2

Garner 35', Johnson 84',

Quick Summary

A first half to forget with two goals scored (one disallowed). A second half where it appeared the Dons subbed the entire outfield players eventually taking the lead in the 79th minute. Only to go back into their shells and cling on for a point again.

Name Score (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev 7

Not his greatest game but again Nik didn't really do that much wrong. He was sold short on a pass that left him indecisive about where to go. He let possession go and retreated to his penalty area only for the ball to go between his legs. Of the five shots on target two got past him one through the legs and the other looked like it went between his hands and over his head. He was saved by the linesman for another goal that was eventually chalked off.

#3 - Dan Csoka 8

For me one of his best games and if that is because of a run of appearances in the team then fair play to him. Didn't do a lot wrong today, lost his man for the first goal which was chalked off which saved him. That aside battled hard and but his body on the line and that is all you ask of a centre back

#4 -Alex Woodyard (C) 9

The combative defensive midfielder controlled the game making his short passes and winning the ball in the midfield area. For me he is back to his best and was winning possession and give it to someone else. Attempting through balls and was directing play. Yes, there was some rough around the diamond but he did enough for me to keep his score from Tuesday night.

#8 - Anthony Hartigan 8

Distribution was good and had a real solid performance again. He has been responsible for errors leading to goals in the past but today another solid performance from Anthony. Pinging passes around and through balls as well as every dead ball situation.

#9 - Ollie Palmer 8

When I am criticising the centre forward for not winning the header that ended up in our net for the 81st minute equaliser. He battled upfront and won headers he probably didn’t get that many chances, but he didn’t take any of them. Still not up to finishing a full ninety minutes yet either. Ticked all the boxes of what was expected but didn’t get the goal

#10 - Ayoub Assal 9

Unplayable again today. Scored one and had a hand in so many positive attacks again today. Defensively helped prevent a goal late in the game and was involved in every positive thing on the pitch. Very quiet in the first half but we seemed to be happy keeping the ball at the back and not looking to attack or look like scoring. He sprung to life at the same time as the team as a whole did. Keep this up and goals will follow.

#12 - Jack Rudoni 8

Worked hard in the second half when the team was looking for a way back into the game. He didn’t get his goal but supported the other four forwards well. He popped up and intercepted passes and worked hard and it was unfortunate that he didn’t get many chances and didn’t take any.

#18 - Nesta Guinness-Walker 8

What a good solid performance at the back today. Did little wrong and was such a supportive presence in the attacking half of the field. I find myself saying the second half in each one but there is a reason for that. He defended well in the first half and made positive runs in the second work really hard and deserved his eight.

#21 - Luke McCormick 9

Luke won the ball in his penalty area and ran the length of the pitch and teed Osew up to fluff his lines where he could have curled the ball into any part of the goal. He done so well that he earned the right to have a go. Making up for it by taking a beautiful goal late in the second half. Beating a man getting into the box and slotting home a perfect finishing. Many peoples player of the match and I wouldn’t argue that much against anyone saying that.

#22 - Ben Heneghan 7

Worst performance from Heneghan that I can remember ever not just since starting this blog. He sold Nik short with a back pass that set up the goal that stood. He missed passes and set up Fleetwood attacks. It was like watching a different player. He was my player of the season before this game and this one game won’t change that I have to say it was a disappointing performance today.

#37 - Paul Osew 7

Where did the Paul go that played so well on Tuesday night? Today he was absent, fluffed his lines when teed up by McCormick. Missed tackles and passes but was exposed with the high balls into the channels and he was beaten so many times in the first half that it was lucky that it was only 1-0 at half time. When under pressure his pace helped to cover up the errors he was making. He is an attacking force when on his game today was not one of those games.

-------THE BENCH-------

#2 - Henry Lawrence 8

(replaced Paul Osew - 69th min)

I was relieved to see him replace Paul before the 70th minute. I don’t want to disrespect Osew as I think he is a quality pacey player, just not today. Henry shored up the back four with half of them being off their game. Not much of an attacking threat today which is normally one of his strong points. Worked hard for the half an hour he was on the pitch. He did well.

#11 - Ethan Chislett 8

(replaced Like McCormick - 85th min)

The weakest of our attacking line I am trying hard to stop developing the anti-Ethan feeling I have. For me he came on in the 85th minute and there was ten minutes of injury time and I could not tell you one thing Ethan did. I have given him a eight as he didn’t do anything wrong and a seven would be harsh against him.

#19 - Aaron Pressley 8

(replaced Ollie Palmer - 85th min)

A typical battling performance he made some assumptions that others were supporting him with flick on’s to no one. That then led to the Cod Army breaking in the dying embers of the game. Got an eight for battling hard and you couldn’t tell Palmer had left proceedings as he took up the same role and preformed just as well.

The Officials 10 or 8

10 or 8 Myers have you been drinking? No, I am not allowed. After the first goal went in and three of their players slid on their knees and gave it large to the fans (right in front of us). Giving the shh hand signal and punching the air and the inciting of the fans that if someone ran on, I wouldn’t blame them. I was tempted myself. They were aggressive and giving it large. Then the linesman and the referee had a chat and disallowed the goal. I have not laughed at a game for years. I MEAN YEARS! When I stopped giggling to myself, I checked the time, and I was laughing solid for nine minutes. That aside they got an eight from me. It is not an easy task, and I was maybe annoyed with the rules and not those applying them. They were dropping like flies when the Wombles got on top of the game. Suddenly they were down getting treatment here there and everywhere. Don’t believe me there was ten minutes of injury time. I wanted him to book some players for delaying the game when the keeper held the ball for 12 seconds or subs strolled off the pitch and time was being burned. I did shout and moan at them which is a typical barometer for me.

Preview

AFC Wimbledon v Crewe Alexandra

Tuesday 23rd November 2021 - Kick-Off 7:45pm

League One

The Oppo

Travelling to Plough Lane will be the team currently bottom of League One on nine points (as I type) which makes them dangerous to the Dons, who likes to struggle in this type of fixture. Six points below the safety line and just one win in the league so far. Adding further suffering to their fans they lost 0-3 at home to League Two's Swindon Town in the F.A. Cup. They would of played more games than the Wombles coming into this fixture, due to International fixtures. They gained a point at home to Doncaster Rovers with a 1-1 draw. They played again on Friday night losing 2-0 away to Bolton Wanderers whilst the Dons rested during the International fixtures. They faced Gillingham on Saturday and again for a team facing the Wombles picked up a morale boosting win heading into a Tuesday night where they will fancy their chances.

The Wombles

Having a break during the International match period the Dons missed two League One fixtures before facing the fancied Portsmouth team away on the Saturday ahead of this fixture. Lets hope some of the injury list has reduced in the meantime and the international players return unharmed. Ahead of the Portsmouth game they have won two of the last ten. The game against the team bottom of the table comes on the back of a tough fixture away to Portsmouth where they entered with two more added to the absent list with Alexander and Lawrence joining the unavailable list. They played very well and then fell to the old 'not taking their chances routine' and lost to a late goal to inflict a 2-1 reverse.

The Match

Both teams will come into this game desperate to change their form and look to spark a revival in the season so far. After the Wigan Athletic defeat Mark Robinson said that the season will not be defined by this result. When playing against the team top of the table, which ipso facto must mean that the result in this fixture will define the season? I guess. As I type both sides are in very poor form and this game could have a big impact on the morale of each squad going into the hectic festive fixture list. As I type both teams have many minutes to play prior this one kicking off. With that in mind I am sure to be writing more updates prior to this game. Another interesting fixture as I am sure both sides will be going into the game with tick in the potential victory box. Which could lead to an entertaining battle or a tight cagey affair. Lets see and I will report back here.

F.A. Cup

The F.A. Cup Second Round draw had taken place and handed the Dons a home tie. They will be playing at Plough Lane on Saturday 4th December and I'd assume a 3pm kick-off. They will play either Gillingham or Cheltenham Town in that game once they have decided the result of their replay following a 1-1 drawn initial game. The replay took place on Tuesday 16th November at 7:45pm. Cheltenham Town ran out winners by a solitary goal scored early by Matthew Pollock, which sets up this tie for early December.

AFC Wimbledon (3) 3

PRudoni 24', Palmer 35, 44' (Pen),

v

Crewe Alexandra (1) 2

Long 11', Porter 89',

Quick Summary

What the hell just happened there? A game where Wimbledon were 2 shy of hitting the 30 shots at goal mark. A game that totally dominated for long periods of play and one they should have put to bed by the 70th minute (if not before) and yet still managed to desperately try to throw it away in the final ten to fifteen minutes. Injury time was particularly tense with Crewe Alexandra pumping the ball long into the box at every opportunity and the ten Wombles clearing the ball to any corner they could find. A game they should of dine well on to improve confidence they nearly made a complete dog’s dinner out of! How?

Name Score (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev 8

Nik got a seven from in the last review with a clean sheet, tonight he conceded two and I give him a score of eight. To explain that the two goals he conceded were not down to him and more so I don’t know many keepers that would have. They were very well taken goals one from an acute angle whilst the second chipped over his head from right in front of him. That said he made two important saves whilst at 3-1 one of which was low to his left and right in front of the away fans. Great play again from the man I was worried about at the beginning of the season.

#3 - Dan Csoka 7

He is one of three players that I have changed the score of as I write. I was toying with 7 or 8 and have changed it back and forth. I heard moans about him losing his man for the first goal. Which I thought was harsh as he won the ball (which is his job) only to see it ping behind him to his man to run free. His man (was Chris Long) took his chance fantastically and for me it was more about Chris and less about Dan for that goal. However, watching the ball he allowed Chris Porter to walk behind him and get ahead of him into the six-yard box and beat him to the ball. Porter then dinked it over Nik to set up the tense finish to the game.

#4 -Alex Woodyard (C) 9

Alex was back to his best again tonight. Sat in front of the back four his job is to protect them and that he did. For the majority of the second half the Wombles were camped in the final third and he and the rest of the midfield did not allow Crewe out and pinned them in. Alex didn’t put a foot wrong. He made himself available and his distribution was good with many short passes he moved the defence around and helped set up the attacking movement.

#8 - Anthony Hartigan 9

Want to know why I gave him a nine with just one word - Distribution.

#9 - Ollie Palmer 9

I was toying with a ten for a while, but I left it where it was. He could (you could argue – should) of got his hat-trick with many chances in the second half. He didn’t do a lot wrong and the advantage of being that high up the pitch is any mistakes have ten teammates behind him to hide them. That said he scored two and could have got four or five so I could of scored him lower but I struggled to do that as well due to how well the forwards played full stop. If they play like that every week, we would be talking about promotion rather than scrapping at the bottom. I will also add at this point that you HAVE to take the opposition into account here and Crewe were poor.

#10 - Ayoub Assal 9

When I started this Ayoub had a score of 7 and now its an 9. He did so well in this match that he then tried to undo in the final moments of the game. He ran at defenders and that is his strongest asset. He won the penalty that extended the lead which was enough for the points by the end. He was a handful for the back three of Crewe Alexandra and was unplayable for large parts of this game. Then the other side of his game took over. First getting booked with a petulant booking for kicking the ball away. This followed with a late knee-high challenge that (according to my view) got him a straight red. I have watched this back and think he was going for the ball and would of been clean through if he got there. He was very late, which probably should of got him a second yellow anyway. This had a big impact on the rest of the game. The story continued two days later as it turns out he was sent off for spitting on an opponent. Watching this live I never saw anything like that I did see the Crewe man go for a headbutt on Ayoub. Today the red card was rescinded as evidence showed no sign of this and credit to the Crewe man he also confirmed he was snot spat on. I take back my judgement and the tackle is now ignored and he won't be banned.

#12 - Jack Rudoni 9

He is developing into a great attacking player. His goal could of arguably could have gone down as an own goal. If this was in the NFL you would call it a goalkeeper fumble. Well, this is the EFL and the ball rolled down his chest and under his body and into the goal all whilst his hands and arms waves around the ball. This was from Rudi’s point-blank header, which he got the credit for. What the stats won’t tell you is the closing down and pressurising he did to set up a 30 minutes of attacking play that the Dons enjoyed in the second half. Meaning the result should have been 6-2 rather than the nervy 3-2 and 6 minutes of injury time. When he scores one and I moan for not scoring enough says a lot about this game.

#18 - Nesta Guinness-Walker 8

When I score a defender down for not taking his chance of scoring, it really does highlight how poor the Railwaymen were. He had one chance I remember, and he curled the ball away rather that to the goal. Defended really well which is ultimately his job but he helped pin Crewe back in the second half. Anything that came out from their back three was won back and then worked around pulling the defenders around to find the gaps and the Dons found the gaps and could have had a hatful. Nesta worked his socks off and deserved a good score.

#21 - Luke McCormick 8

Not on any stats information, (like goal scorer or assist) but what Luke did was run and battle being involved in and help set up wave after wave of attacks. I still cannot work out how we didn’t get more than three and how Luke didn’t add to his seasons tally for goals scored I don’t know. When the team plays well Luke will be part of it and he was involved in so much tonight that he deserved a goal or at least an assist but he will be content with three points and move onto the nest fixture against Fleetwood Town this Saturday.

#22 - Ben Heneghan 8

You could read any of his match reports below and they would all appear to the same or similar he is the most consistent of performers and a real asset to this team. He must have had a much easier night tonight as he did everything asked of him and was not involved in either of The Railwaymen’s goals. A danger with attacking corners and solid at the back a real consistent performer when everyone else blows hot and cold.

#37 - Paul Osew 8

One of the best games I’ve seen Paul have, nearly claimed a goal and helped create so many other chances that really should have been taken by the attacking members of the squad. With the first goal coming down the left and he wasn't on the park when the second went in. A really solid error free performance from Paul. Hopefully breeding some confidence for a decent run in the squad with other defenders being out with sickness and injuries.

-------THE BENCH-------

#2 - Henry Lawrence 8

(replaced Paul Osew - 74th min)

Replaced Osew and pick up just where he left off. The second goal came from his side but as already mentioned I have question around Dan’s marking more so but he could have done more to prevent the ball coming across in the first place. He had to dig in for the final six or seven minutes when it was backs against the wall with ten men.

#6 - George Marsh 7

(replaced Like McCormick - 83rd min)

He got a solid thirteen or fourteen minutes of action after his injury. I was surprised to see him enter the field. For me it was good to see him back and having a little cameo at the end was pleasing with his recovery back to full fitness still to come

#19 - Aaron Pressley 8

(replaced Ollie Palmer - 77th min)

The much-maligned Aaron put in another solid performance if not flamboyant and his introduction seemed to see an end to the attacking flair that had preceded. He didn’t do a lot wrong but for me didn’t do a lot of - full stop. The game changed towards the end and there was a real feeling of hanging on where it should have been cruise control. He didn’t get many chances but my complaint about him is that if he struck his shots the way he hits his penalties he would have doubled his tally for the season already. I do not know what the difference is from standing alone from 12 yards to standing at the back post whoomphing the ball into the roof of the net but clearly, he does and it’s the one thing he needs to work on

The Officials 7

Sending one of players off and turning down a couple of penalty shouts would be enough to give the officials a score of six most weeks. This evening was different as I don’t have a lot to complain about. The lino didn’t want to put his flag up for offsides in the first half and I shouted that he better be consistent in the second half with us against the line and he was. The flag stayed down nearly all the game. He could (maybe did) help with the red card incident but it wasn’t clear to me that he said anything. I though Assal deserved two yellows for the tackle and the earlier dissent. If both incidents were dissent then I have little sympathy for him. As it turns out the sending off was due to the referee seeing something that did not happen. Which then makes me think why would you guess that you had seen something and then send a player off for it. As a referee I know that I've missed sending a player off when I wasn't sure of what happened but I have never sent a player off for something I think he might of done and kudos for him coming out and admitting the error but really how can he send someone off for something like that. In a park that is someone getting a fine and no way of turning that one around. I've taken two points from here and given them to Assal.

Preview

AFC Wimbledon v Guiseley

Saturday 6th November 2021 - Kick-Off 3pm

F.A. Cup 1st Round

The Oppo

A quick look at the league table shows you that Guiseley sit 17th (of 22). What stood out to me straight away was that of the eight points gained in the league this season seven were taken at home. Looking like they are poor travellers ahead of what will be their longest journey of the season so far. Since the Cup draw Guiseley should have played three games. First a home game against Chorley followed by two away games first at Telford United mid-week and then a Saturday afternoon trip to Darlington. Things didn’t go to plan as they drew 0-0 at home to Chorley taking their tally up to nine points before Covid-19 infected the camp forcing the Telford United game to be postponed. Their final game before this one was a 5-1 reverse to Darlington which could have been down to a squad predominantly made up of youth players due to injuries as senior players were isolating or suffering with Covid-19. Either way if they were purely focused on this tie then they have completely forgone getting any results in the other games in order to pull off a real shock.

The Wombles

The Dons have played twice since the defeat to Wigan Athletic and suffered defeats on both occasions. Unusually in both matches they entered as equals or favourites but failed to score in either game and conceded three. First up was Crystal Palace (under twenty-one’s) in the EFL Trophy where protecting their squad was the biggest requirement for the Dons and ended up fielding youth players. Our squad was younger than theirs and a 2-0 home defeat followed. A much more painful defeat was to follow with the away league defeat to Cambridge United. This has meant that the Dons head into the FA Cup weekend just two points above the relegation zone in League 1 and ten points away from the play-off places. Will the slide continue and will there be enough fit players to play?

The Match

Another fascinating encounter presents itself at Plough Lane for Saturday afternoon. A team low on Morale after another three defeats on the bounce in a season that started really well and full of hope, has slid into the previous seasons gloomy mid-season slump. Will face a team that appears to not travel very well, 89% of their points have come from home games this season. In the last round of the FA Cup they drew away, before winning the home replay against a side nearer the top of their table. I am unsure who would be the clear favourites for this tie now, seeing as the Dons on the back of three defeats and a defence that will be selected on who is fit rather than who is best for each position. There is also the possibility that Guiseley have used an old non-league tactic of trying to hide their team selection for the big game by tanking the last game just to ruin any scouting reports the Dons would of completed. If not, then based on the 5-1 reverse, it does make a sound tactic of parking the bus for the game against the fragile Dons with the hope of dragging them up to Leeds on a cold and wet Tuesday night for a replay when they have a much better chance of getting the result they want.

THE GAME

AFC Wimbledon (1) 1

Palmer 44',

v

Guiseley (0) 0

Quick Summary

A lacklustre Dons squeaked through the F.A. Cup First round with a 1-0 win against a side three divisions below them in the pyramid. After a positive start and Ollie Palmer stinging the hands of the aerobic Bradley Wade around the six-minute mark. The game settled into a midfield battle with little action in the other third. The underdogs looking dangerous from free kicks around the box and corners. The deadlock was broken from excellent work from Ollie Palmer who beat a couple of defenders and rounded the keeper before slotting home a minute before halftime. The second half did not see much improvement in terms of quality from the home side and it finished with a ‘backs against the wall’ performance as the Dons clung on to see out a single goal victory.

Name Score (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev 7

This will be one of those days with regards to the scores. Kicking this off is Nik's score of seven for a clean sheet and a win. He didn't do anything wrong and actually only did right. Beyond coming out to claim crosses and deal with corners he was not asked to do very much in terms of dramatic saves, which is highlighted in a single shot on target from Guiseley.

#3 - Dan Csoka 7

For me Dan is the weakest of the centre backs we have in the squad. He seems best fitting into a back three with wing-backs either side. When in a pair across a back four I can't help but feel he has an error waiting to happen in each game. It didn't happen today and he didn't do much wrong but it was a poor team performance. He was just part of it.

#4 -Alex Woodyard (C) 7

The typical combative Woody was on show today but it felt like the run of the luck was against him and the midfield as a whole. He would challenge a player win the ball only for it to hit someone's ankle and roll back behind him and back to the player that lost it in the first place. He passed the ball out for a throw a few times and it just felt like it wasn't his day.

#7 - Cheye Alexander 7

Cheye put in a performance similar to those in the early part of the season when I couldn't see what he brings to the team. Having paid a bit more attention to him in recent weeks I could see the crosses for the attacking side of his game as well as the strong defensive tasks he completes. There were glimmers today but very similar to Woodyard nothing seem to come off for him today. He was taken off as well which appeared to be a surprise to him suggesting the manager wanted to change things.

#8 - Anthony Hartigan 7

Sat in front of the back four picked up the ball and passed it to team mates. Dead-ball taker with nearly every offering but never really saw much of an end result today. Seemed tired but that could of been due to a knock which left him on the deck for many minutes. Seemed to drift out of the game as we run out of ideas in the attacking third.

#9 - Ollie Palmer 8

Put himself about and won headers and challenges. He even popped up in the defensive third winning challenges but could only manage an hour before being removed. I was split between giving him an eight or a nine seeing how well he took his goal. He was the only real threat to Guiseley providing the only goal and the only other strong attempt on target that I can remember.

#10 - Ayoub Assal 6

The three attacking midfielders were very poor today. Ayoub was either offside or pushed over which the referee did not blow up for. Not his fault maybe but the odd run here and there down dead ends, led to a thoroughly frustrating day.

#12 - Jack Rudoni 6

For me - the least noticed player on the pitch. This could say more about me than him but I didn't see much of a performance from him today. He could of left the action and I wouldn't of realised. All three were nullified by the four in midfield and I never really saw him do anything.

#18 - Nesta Guinness-Walker 8

A bit like Ollie I was torn between two scores for him a seven or an eight. For me he was the best defender in the first 45 minutes. He had a funny five minutes where I would guess I jinxed him and he could not do a thing right. The defence was the only positive on a poor day and along side Ben he was the best of them. He stayed strong and deserved the higher option.

#21 - Luke McCormick 6

The final third of the midfield three that was completely ineffective today. They played four in midfield that seemed to nullified the three behind Ollie and they created very little between them. If Ollie didn't start I dread to think what the result would of been. 0-0 would of been lucky. I have to include Luke in the trio of attacking players that didn't do much attacking.

#22 - Ben Heneghan 8

On a very poor day all around Ben has been one of the consistent performers throughout the season and he stayed at his usual level today. He played well getting into both boxes and did what was expected in both. Always strong and deserves his place even with a fully fit squad. Would of got my man of the match if it wasn't for Ollie.

-------THE BENCH-------

#2 - Henry Lawrence 7

(replaced Cheye Alexander - 81st min)

He played well once joining the fray, making some important interceptions and challenges to keep the Guiseley score at zero and deserves credit. The reason for the seven was he played nine minutes plus injury time and not enough for a higher score.

#11 - Ethan Chislett 7

(replaced Luke McCormick - 81st min)

Created more attacking play in nine minutes (plus injury time) than the three mentioned above. I still have my doubts about Ethan but today he helped ease those worries with this cameo. He went forward which was more than can be said about the other five forwards around him. He deserved the seven despite the short appearance time.

#16 - Dapo Medube 6

(replaced Jack Rudoni - 86th min)

Dapo appears to be becoming another Chislett with his appearances from the bench. He had one opportunity to run at the defence late in the game that were tired and injured and was dispossessed easily on the edge of the box. That one opportunity aside he did little else.

#19 - Aaron Pressley 6

(replaced Ollie Palmer - 65th min)

Aaron had a poor start to the season in my opinion, when Ollie was out injured he stepped up and I could really see what he brought to the team. A thankless task with long balls lumped up to him to feed on the scraps he can get hold of. Today was a complete circle as he returned back to the performances of the beginning of the season. Summed up by winning a header at the back post about five yards out in the dying moments of the game. Rather than heading between keeper and post he headed the ball backwards to absolutely no-one within the penalty area. Allowing the opposition to clear, they broke and nearly scored from that poor decision.

The Officials 8

Handing out seven cards and turning down three penalty shouts could of rated any score from me. I think they didn't make many mistakes. Every time I went to moan at the lack of decision they made it, with an offside flag or whistle. I had little to grumble about there were many challenges on Assal that I would of liked to have seen given but staying onside and timing his runs would of been more pleasing on the eye. I left the ground fed up with the lack of attacking adventures from us more than the ref not protecting us or making terrible decisions. We simply didn't perform today not the referee and his two assistants.

Preview

AFC Wimbledon v Wigan Athletic

Saturday 23rd October 2021 - Kick-Off 3pm

League One

The Oppo

Wigan Athletic have seen some glory in recent history after Dave Whelan took charge and led them to the top Division and an FA Cup win (2012/13). The decline set in around 2013/14, slipping out of the top tier and administration in 2020/21. Finishing 20th last season the lowest position since the late 90's. Now owned by the Phoenix 2021 Ltd, money is not the issue but climbing back up the divisions is. They have made a great start to the season with Leam Richardson managing the team and James Beattie assisting they have played all the fancied teams so far and still up there. Wigan Athletic have former Womble up front in Charlie Wyke. Although Charlie isn't the top striker for the Latics as that would be Will Keane (former Man United, Hull City, & Ipswich Town) striker. Will has 6 goals compared to Charlie's 5. Will also leads the assists column with 4 equal top with Max Power. They are a very strong side and on paper this should be one of the toughest remaining home games for the Dons this year.

The Wombles

After the morale boosting point at home to Sheffield Wednesday the Dons travelled to Lincoln City on Tuesday night. Not only did they start with a penalty in the 5th minute, they dominated the first half and picked up a clean sheet and 3 points as well. Coming into one of the toughest home games remaining this year (on paper) they will be full of confidence if not full in the squad department. Will, Ollie and George are all still definitely out, Dapo Mebude is hoping to recover from sickness in time for Saturday. Previous doubtful players Aaron Pressley played the whole game Tuesday and Luke McCormick managed 70 minutes so hopeful they will both be available for Saturday. Roared on by over 7,000 fans this is going to be a tough one for the fans and the players alike this Saturday.

The Match

Ten places separate the two teams with the Latics 4th and the Wombles 14th. With Wigan looking to return to winning ways as soon as possible. Wigan Athletic spent last weekend thrashing their rivals Bolton Wanderers 4-0. Away, none the less. This past Tuesday saw them lose at home to a team from Buckinghamshire 2-1. That defeat saw Wigan slip a place from 3rd to 4th but it does mean that they have already faced nearly all of the fancied teams and they are still up the top of the table. Wigan's only other defeats were against Sheffield Wednesday at home and Sunderland away. However, they have beaten Rotherham United, Portsmouth, Charlton Athletic, Doncaster Rovers, Accrington Stanley, and Gillingham with the only league draw against third place Wycombe Wanderers. The Dons come into this one full of confidence after finally picking up a win away from home. Will the home fans cheer them onto a point or three, who knows but this will be a tough game for the Plough Lane faithful to get through? All the support possible will be required for this one.

THE GAME

AFC Wimbledon (0) 0

v

Wigan Athletic (0) 2

Kalambayi o.g. 50' , McClean 54'

Quick Summary

The Latics started strong, and it looked as though my worries were coming to fruition. The young Wombles weathered the storm and seemed to grow into the game as the first half wore on. Half time arrived with the teams evenly matched in my opinion. As half-time was enjoyed I was worried about how the Dons start to the second as they seem to take to wind up in each half. Just as I thought we had got up to speed was the point that the Dons collapsed with a double whammy. 5 minutes into the second half a long high ball flew over Nesta Guinness-Walker’s head and dangling a leg out it come of his shin and ran perfectly to Wigan’s winger, who teed up Callum Lang on the edge of the box. He fired a cross across the goal to leading goal scorer Will Keane and desperate to prevent him from adding to his tally, Paul Kalambayi beat him too it by slotting neatly past Nik Tzanez. More calamitous defending happened a minute later when Luke McCormick manager to poke the ball away from his kicking foot with his standing foot. Pouncing on the error Wigan was in again but Cheye Alexander cleared off his line to save Luke’s blushes. Less than two minutes from there More trouble was to follow as just three minutes later. A long ball to the left channel saw three Dons drawn out wide leaving Callum Lang tons of space where he teed up James McClean on the edge of the box. A dummy let Jack Rudoni slide right past him and open up the angle for McClean to slot a inch perfect shot into the left corner of the net. The Wombles huffed and puffed but never really looked like scoring. The poor result compounded by Paul Kalambayi being stretchered off in the 90th minute. It seems a good time to ask if you are any good at playing at centre back and are free on Tuesday evenings and Saturday afternoons?

Name Score (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev 7

Nik conceded two today and it could of easily of been five. Twice defenders made clearances off the line and their leading goal scorer missed the goal from 2 yards out. That said I don't think he had a bad game. When previous 'big' teams arrived we had gone with five across the back which was possible with Daniel Csoka and Darius Charles on the bench. Robbo stuck with a back four after the away win Tuesday. I would expect Nik to be the busier of the two keepers but he was ok claiming corners and they did well to keep it to two.

#4 -Alex Woodyard (C) 8

Woody was in his usual combative mode today and worked his socks off. He made some unusual errors making poor passes and ran himself into trouble on more than one occasion. Could that be lack of support I don't know but he was one of our better performers today. With most of the team getting 7's today he battled to the end. Replacing PK in the back four for the conclusion of the game and the injury time. There was 10 minutes of that.

#7 - Cheye Alexander 8

This guy is really growing on me. He works incredibly hard whilst on the pitch. His crossing is improving and made more than one vital clearances from the back. Even on the goal-line as well. Always ready to receive the ball and ping crosses to the far post. Worked hard today and deserved more from the game.

#8 - Anthony Hartigan 8

Dead-ball man sent some great corners and free-kicks into the box and in many other games would of gained two or three assists. Today he got nothing! Did not do anything silly at the back (that I noticed) and found his passes. Appears to have got the one or two errors per game out of his system which can only make him better. I could of gone with another 7 but thought he deserved a but more extra credit.

#10 - Ayoub Assal 7

He ran and ran which he does every game, wasn't protected by the officials very much again today which normally leads to a lower score for him. Sadly that was the case today. As I clapped him off when he was subbed off my exact words were "he's been largely ineffective today" and I will stand by that comment. He hasn't quite worked out his plan B as defences have seemed to have worked him out now.

#12 - Jack Rudoni 7

Like many of the forwards today he was largely ineffective. However, I did him nip in and take possession away from them when they played it about in their own third. The thing is nothing really came of it as the speed he used and space created always seemed to fizzle out. He threw himself at the ball which left him on the floor sliding away from McClean who used that time and space to pick he spot to slot home. He is a battler and I expect to see him back in scoring ways soon.

#18 - Nesta Guinness-Walker 7

I can see the green shoots of a good left back here but once or twice today I was left confused by his decision making. Swinging a shin at a dropping ball set up another dangerous attack and in the first half giving the right winger space to think and plan ahead. I am glad that I have seen better from him and this performance is the lowest I have seen but we need to improve on decision making and marking. I for one can see how much better he is now compared to when he first joined the club.

#19 - Aaron Pressley 7

His lowest score from me since starting this page and I will say this was his worst performance as well. I don't expect to win every header and find every pass. He has been doing a damn fine job recently of battling for every ball and making himself a pain to the opposition back line. Today he tried to do the same it just didn't happen for him. He seemed to be searching for his supporting forwards today as opposed to naturally finding them. Yes, we were playing fourth in the table and we could be still playing now and I'd be surprised if we had got anything out of the game. I think he is an important player to how we perform in a game. He plays well we do well, which means we were poor today and so was he.

#21 - Luke McCormick 7

For me, one of his worst performances today. (Again I know who we were playing!!) but he worked hard and battled but created very little for others around him. I rate him and love to watch him in full pelt but today nothing seemed to work from him. From his standing leg kicking the ball away from his kicking let when in his own penalty area summed it up. Sometimes 'it just ain't your day' and today was very much the case for him today. I think he may play worse and get a better score from me in the future but a home loss combined with one of those days leaves him on a seven.

#22 - Ben Heneghan 8

One of the better performers on a day where the opposition was supressing all of our good intensions. Didn't really put a foot wrong but still could of been on the end of a five or six goal hammering. You could argue that it was his good play that helped keep it down to 2. I prefer to see him running in at the back post for free kicks where it was Paul today. He wins headers and doesn't appear to take any crap where some of the younger ones around him do.

#30 - Paul Kalambayi 7

If Luke had 'one of those games' then Paul's day was that plus some. This was his third game since returning from injury. After playing well in the first half and missing a chance to take the lead from a far post shot, PK started the second half with and own goal five minutes into it. He finished the game with ten minutes to go carried off on a stretcher. Does he deserve a lower than 7 score? Well probably but I really don't want to compound his day more. He worked hard but was really up against better oppositio than he has faced for sometime and it showed at times today.

-------THE BENCH-------

#2 - Henry Lawrence 7

(replaced Cheye Alexander - 74th Min)

Having 16 minutes to impress, in honesty we grew into each half but never really looked like scoring in the time he was on the pitch. Huffing and puffing but really never calving out a clear cut chance. As a defender I will also add they never scored whilst he was on the pitch as well. I couldn't see much difference between him and Cheye to be fair.

#11 - Ethan Chislett 7

(replaced Ayoub Assal - 74th Min)

It was good to see that he could beat a man and slot the ball into the next late on. OK it was offside and didn't count but as mentioned below I am worried that he is not doing enough to get a new contract from us and is always on the periphery of the starting eleven. When he starts he comes off but that said he is normally one player that gets brought on. He has score once this season.

#37 - Paul Osew 8

(replaced Jack Rudoni - 81st min)

Paul actually looked dangerous after coming on and his pace seemed to have their defence worried. I also say his speed is dangerous but his size prevents his ability from showing as he will be the first muscled off the ball. Chased lost causes and that is always good to see the effort being put in. Having written this positive paragraph I have just gone and changed his 7 to an 8.

The Officials 7

I think my frustrations of my own team was reflected on the officials today. That said we had a lino that miraculously managed to be looking in the wrong direction four times in the first fifteen minutes of the game. My anger towards him transferred to the referee as the game went on. When you spray the major marker on the pitch, count ten paces then spray a line. The wall stand next to the sprayed line so you return and just randomly spray a new line eight yards from the ball just to keep it going. Then you have given the defence an advantage haven't you. Missing Gwion Edwards assuming he had been fouled but you'd not blow so the angry Gwion gets up sprints 30-yards just to take out Anthony Hartigan's ankle in revenge. You blow for a foul and get shouted out, without knowing why. The seven score comes because you watched McCormick get taken out by the throat and allowed play to continue. Play went on for sometime before finally going out for a Wimbledon corner and you found the man and booked him (Kelland Watts - if your interested). We didn't get one booking today whilst they had three.

They still irritated the hell out of me today.

Preview

Lincoln City v AFC Wimbledon

Tuesday 19th October 2021 - Kick-Off 7.45pm

League One

The Oppo

Lincoln City had a fantastic season in 2020/21 where they finished 5th behind Hull City, Peterborough United, Blackpool and Sunderland. Which is no mean feat, that they compounded that with a trip through the play-offs where they faced Blackpool at Wembley taking the lead before eventually losing 2-1. This season has not started as well as last season finished, losing five times in the league, however they have beaten Fleetwood Town, Cambridge United, Burton Albion, and Charlton Athletic with a noticeable draw with table toppers Plymouth Argyle recently.

The Wombles

A morale boosting draw on Saturday against the League 1 fancied Sheffield Wednesday although the result did see the team slide down the table to 17th. Hovering above the relegation zone the Dons good start to the season is slowly slipping away. Changes are needed but not necessarily a change in form or performance but an upturn of results is required. I could talk about that little slice of luck in the final third, may be a bit more confidence at then end of the pitch might do wonders for our 'luck'.

The Match

13th host 17th on a Tuesday night in Lincolnshire. With both previous league meetings at Sincil Bank or the LNER Stadium finishing 0-0 the approximate 3 hour journey facing the away fans on what may well be a cold October evening seems brave. Whether the team itself fancies the journey remains to be seen but if the Dons want anything from this game they will have to dig deep. Its not going to be easy and Lincoln are a strong attacking side who will not let points go without a fight.

THE GAME

Lincoln City (0) 0

v

AFC Wimbledon (1) 1

Pressley 5 (Pen)

Quick Summary

From kick off the Dons were on top and took a deserved lead in the 5th minute from a debated penalty. My initial view was that it was soft but not as soft as the penalty given against us on Saturday. McCormick won the ball outside the box got into the box close to the touch line and was tripped falling off the pitch. The referee was in no doubt and gave it straight away. If it was given against us I would be complaining but with a neutral hat on I would have to say it was a penalty. From then on Wimbledon bossed the first half in terms of clear cut chances created. It could easily of been 3,4,5 or even 6 - nil by half time but somehow it was just the penalty dividing the teams at the break.

Second half started more evenly but Lincoln started to carve out more and more chances but that said I don't remember Tzanev having to make a difficult save from anything other than distance. Not that I am complaining as the second half wore on and the Imps imposed themselves more and more but beyond some shots off target they never looked like getting the equaliser. Didn't stop us in the away end from worrying every time they pumped the ball long to the wingers. Five minutes of injury time followed by great celebrations in the away end as 3 points were secured by the boys.

Name Score (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev 8

No one will get a lower score than 8 on this list and I feel a bit harsh that Nik is only getting an 8. That is because the two holding midfielders and the back four protected him very well. He didn't put a foot wrong and was in control for most of the night some wayward kicks would not drop his score any. The fact the ten players in front of him did so well prevented him from having a blinder. Which I am not complaining about.

#2 - Henry Lawrence 8

Was up and down the pitch like a yo-yo was a key attacking option in the first half and dug deep in the second half. Why only an 8 scored? For one main reason in the second half the Lincoln left winger had so much space that he was the outlet throughout the second 45 minutes. Could Henry of done anything about that, I don't know but every time I looked at our right back position there was a winger stood on his own. He also got booked for picking up the ball with was ridiculous but that is down to the official not Henry.

#4 -Alex Woodyard (C) 9

Back to his battling best tonight. Back in front of his past fans he won the ball time after time and with rare exceptions found the pass to take the ball forward or back to keep possession safe. Distribution so much better than two games ago. Battling and challenging it what he is good at and he proved that tonight.

#8 - Anthony Hartigan 9

Got booked in the 22nd minute for time wasting when taking a corner. Utterly ridiculous but again not down to him. Provided plenty of quality dead balls into the box to have a handful of assists but ended without anything. Battled hard and worked his sock off tonight. Back to the Hartigan we remember two season ago.

#10 - Ayoub Assal 8

Worked really hard which is all you can ask and was wrestled to the ground plenty of times. If his second half matched his first the score would of been a 9. It feels harsh to score him down a point but had he notched a goal or assisted with one the game would of been much more comfortable going into the later stages.

#12 - Jack Rudoni 8

Almost an identical assessment as Assal. He worked so hard that a goal would of been deserved and no one would of begrudged him. The fact he didn't notch one tonight I don't know. The last 10 minutes of the first half saw chance after chance, (now the important part of that sentence is -) that just went begging. Second half was similar when the goal gapping and running into the box, he waited too long and the defender got back and blocked the shot. He could of added to his seasons tally. Still feels strange to criticise and then score an 8. He could of had a 10 tonight is my point.

#18 - Nesta Guinness-Walker 9

One of Nesta's best performances, not putting a foot wrong. Made the right decisions and was battling throughout in both penalty area's. I had my doubts about him but he is starting to show some real signs of progress and development. Ironing out the mistakes will play a big part in that. Nothing wrong tonight and played in a perfect back four.

#19 - Aaron Pressley 9

I was torn between an 8 or 9 tonight. I left it as is due to him scoring but like so many other forwards tonight could of helped put this one to bed a lot early that it did actually go into the history books. He has become the lone target and you can see when he isn't on the pitch. Would I pick him over a fit Ollie? No probably not but Ollie is a 25% a season man when he is playing he will make lots of things happen but without Ollie Aaron is doing a thankless task which is overshadowed by the faster attackers around him that he is feeding so much.

#21 - Luke McCormick 9

Won the penalty after winning the ball. Most of covered every blade of grass tonight and harried the defence into making mistakes. It took them 60 minutes to work out that a diagonal ball to the left wing was an 'out'. Prior to that Luke and the closing down posse were in full affect. It was this that won the penalty and more importantly should of added to the score-line with the number of shots between minute 35 and half time. Ran and ran but couldn't add to the score-line or assists. Still worked very hard tonight.

#22 - Ben Heneghan 9

I am going to write the same thing for both of the centre backs who were immense tonight. Won headers made themselves available to receive a pass and move and pass to start a new attack from a different angle. Great pairing tonight without putting a foot wrong protected Nik through the dangers of a goal lead with 20 minutes to play. Well done to both Ben and Paul. The win is as much to do with them as anyone else on the pitch. I have more faith in Ben at this time as he plays the ball with more confidence from the back.

#30 - Paul Kalambayi 9

I am going to write the same thing for both of the centre backs who were immense tonight. Won headers made themselves available to receive a pass and move and pass to start a new attack from a different angle. Great pairing tonight without putting a foot wrong protected Nik through the dangers of a goal lead with 20 minutes to play. Well done to both Ben and Paul. The win is as much to do with them as anyone else on the pitch. Paul is still only two games back after injury and was much improved tonight compared to Saturday for me. Keep this up and he will have a fantastic season.

-------THE BENCH-------

#11 - Ethan Chislett 8

(replaced Luke McCormick - 70th Min)

I feel I am being too negative on Ethan but given a 20 minute run out tonight I remember one run into the box before being crowed out. He is enthusiastic and goes after everything but at this moment in time nothing seems to be working out for him. I think this is his highest score from me but I cannot give any player on the pitch lower than an 8 tonight so he gets an 8 from me.

#37 - Paul Osew 8

(replaced Ayoub Assal - 62nd Min)

An 8 from me again I don't want to go as low as 7 for any player tonight as this was such a team performance that they all deserve a good score. I guess he was introduced to slot into a right midfield role to help support Henry with the left winger who was getting so much space that time was ticking on a positive production from him. Yet he still kept getting that much space and Paul didn't seem to help too much with that or help pushing forward in the final third. Why an 8? I hear you ask. He worked and tackled hard from the minute he entered the pitch to the final whistle.

The Officials 7

Can I criticise an official that gave us a penalty in the 5th minute. Well, as a matter of fact - yes I can. From that minute on we had to rush every dead ball. Every throw and goal kick he was waving cards for slow play from the 22nd minute. Without a warning, no stop doing that or else just straight to the cards. Yet their overrun back four could pull and hold and drag down our fast forwards with warning after warning. I counted four before their first yellow of the game. There was inconsistency in his decisions that annoyed me and the lino's flag went up slower than a balloon blown up by an asthmatic sloth. There ain't no VAR mate so I am not sure what you are waiting for? It's either offside or not. I found myself frustrated by the officials even more than the home fans who thought he was against them for the whole game. I didn't see it that way, which maybe means he was equally bad for both side. Either way it won't improve his score from me.

Post match in the away end.

Preview

AFC Wimbledon v Sheffield Wednesday

Saturday 16th October 2021 - Kick-Off 3pm

League One

The Oppo

This will be one of a few games I've attended in the league with the thought of how the hell are we playing them in the third tier. Sunderland and Ipswich Town are some of the other examples of this. How the Owls slipped out of the Championship I am not sure and to put it into perspective Wednesday have the 11th largest ground in the country. That is bigger than more than half of the Premier League teams and every team in the Championship as well. Now, I am not foolish enough to suggest that having bums on seats makes a team better than any other. What I would suggest is that they should have enough funds from those to afford a team good enough to get back out of this Division. Kicking off the season with a goalless draw at Charlton Athletic which they followed with positive results against Doncaster Rovers, Fleetwood Town, and Rotherham United. They were hit by a shock defeat away to Morecombe. This seemed to have shaken them as they struggled to pick up victories again after that game with another defeat, this time 3-0 away to Plymouth Argyle. Two suspect draws followed against Shrewsbury Town and an out of form Ipswich Town. Before facing two of the title rivals beating Wigan Athletic away and then losing to Oxford United at home. To say they are unpredictable is an understatement. They came through a tough test at the weekend beating Bolton Wanderers by the only goal of the game. This suggests they travel to Plough Lane with confidence and a positive mindset.

The Wombles

The Dons come into this game after a week off. This is due to international call ups from the squad meant the EFL trophy game against Crystal Palace (under 21's) and the following League One fixture was postponed. The last game was the draw mentioned below. [FYI the Palace game has been rescheduled for the 26th of October and the League One game has moved to the 11th of January].

The irony is that the relaxed Dons are anything but. With the game kicking off later today, is that during this "rest" period the Wombles have lost centre back Will Nightingale for 4 months, defensive midfielder George Marsh for 6 weeks, Ollie Palmer has had yet another setback and is another 4 weeks away from fitness which rules those three out of the game. With a further three now doubtful after Nesta Guinness-Walker was kicked during the friendly, Luke McCormick has been ill and Aaron Pressley strained his quad, so it will be more of a case of playing whoever is fit.

The Match

The questions ahead of kick off will be - has having a week off given the Dons chance to recoup and have players return whilst during the same period Sheffield Wednesday have played twice. Will that mean that they have remained sharp whilst the Wombles have soaked up the early autumn sunshine. It is worth noting that the "Owl’s" gained a moral boosting win against Bolton Wanderers which will brighten the mood in the camp whilst lifting them 5 points above the Dons and into 9th place. With the final point of the risk of any of the international players returning with an injury and then suddenly being unavailable for the game. It has not been reported that only Womble was injured whilst away which doesn't mean there wasn't any just there wasn't any reported. It would appear that those left behind to 'rest' were the ones to worry about with six names in a list of out or doubtful. This match could see the return of Darius Charles or Paul Kalambayi called up for defensive duties. It would be Charles' first game since re-signing for the Dons and Kalambayi's return from injury.

Wimbledon played Brentford in a behind closed doors friendly on Thursday 7th with only Nesta Guinness-Walker reporting a knock during the game. He also notched a very well taken goal as well. Many of my hopes and wishes for this game may be gone already as rather than seeing if we can match them it could be a case of playing whoever is fit and then seeing how they get on. Cross the fingers and hope.

The F.A. Cup

The final thing to note is that this weekend will see the draw for the First Round of the F.A. Cup where the Wombles will enter the competitions find out who we will be facing on the weekend of Saturday 6th November.

THE GAME

AFC Wimbledon (0) 2

Guinness-Walker 67' , Rudoni 85'

v

Sheffield Wednesday (1) 2

Gregory 13', 61' (pen)

Quick Summary

From kick off the Dons were on top and it took Wednesday 6 minutes to get the ball in our half. The next 6 minutes was all in our half. Which the Owls topped off with a well taken goal. From there the game settled into an even first half but Wednesday's attacks appeared to have more threat than the Wombles who's attacks seem to just fizzle out. Second half Wednesday win a penalty, for me I couldn't see why at all. Not seen a replay but it looked like nothing at the time. No other Wednesday player appealed but it was given and scored so 0-2 with half an hour to go. Before restarting Wimbledon made two changes bringing Pressley and McCormick looking to fir up the attack and that is exactly what happened. 6 minutes later Guinness-Walker thundered the ball into the back of the net. After Pressley won a header in midfield down to Alexander. Who played a peach of a pass out to McCormick who teed up Pressley to shoot from inside the box. The shot was parried to Nesta Guinness-Walker who composed himself before firing home. The game saw Wednesday nearly scoring about three times before McCormick found himself in space with another long ball to the edge of the box. He brought the ball back to give himself some room to cross and found Rudi ghosting in behind the left back to slot home at the near post. Finishing 2-2 and another point from behind earned by the battling Dons. Strangely the result moves the Owls up to 7th position and drops the Dons down to 17th. With tough games against Lincoln City (13th) and Wigan Athletic (3rd) to come in the next week.

Name Score (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev 9

I am not a huge Nik fan, particularly towards the end of last season. Yes he saved the Penalty against Northampton Town which practically kept us up but he had too many errors in him and I had my concerns. Those concerns are disappearing with performance like that today. The first goal (for me) he couldn't do anything about. The penalty (still don't think it was) had nothing to do with him and failing to save it took it down from a 10. After the pen he made a double save, one with his face but he kept us in the game and deserves the almost perfect score above.

#4 -Alex Woodyard (C) 8

Woody was back to his typical self today. Picking the ball up from the back four and giving to the willing runners around him. He is there to win the ball and he done that today. I feel the eight is generous but he didn't do a lot wrong but wasn't instrument in the goals so I cannot pour praise on him but he did his job today and many of the team will be getting eights today.

#7 - Cheye Alexander 8

Since concentrating on Cheye I have seen what he brings to the team and once again he provided attacking options down the wings and slung in some superb crosses that unfortunately came to very little today but that is not his problem if those on the other end don't deliver.

#8 - Anthony Hartigan 8

I would assume that Hartigan would not score highly in many peoples list today. For me he never put a foot wrong and he is in a horrible position of when he does nothing wrong he isn't noticed, but when he makes a mistake everyone is on his back. Majority of dead ball situation are his and he was responsible for the great results at the start of the season with free kicks and corners. Today not a foot wrong and I only give him an 8, if he made a goal it'll go higher.

#10 - Ayoub Assal 8

Worked really hard whilst being kicked up in the air a lot as usual. Ran and ran which is why he is in the team but not involved in either goal today. He made himself available without the support of the tall forward support he should be getting used to. The lack of height upfront didn't help him or Dapo very much and Wimbledon as a whole didn't look very threatening until the changes were met.

#11 - Ethan Chislett 7

I feel myself turning against Ethan and there isn't really an out and out reason for it. He puts himself about and makes forward runs but seems to get confused when he gets the ball at his feet in the opposition penalty area. I didn't report on the Rotherham game but he ran into the penalty area put his foot on the ball and went backwards until he passed it back into his own half. The issue I am seeing with him is the lack of potential when attacking. We look better with other options up front and he is starting to look like a back-up rather than a squad player. I am not happy saying that but at the moment I would be surprised if a contract extension would be offered. He tries and full credit for that and he would probably chip in with a goal or two each season but there are others in the squad who will offer more.

#12 - Jack Rudoni 8

Played the full 90 minutes which may highlight the lack of depth in the squad. He did make his presence felt throughout. Although part of the ineffective attacking force of the first half. He won possession many times in the opposition half which will lead to something eventually. Turned up in the perfect position to equalise in the 85th minute as they say ghosting in behind the left back to beat the keeper at the near post. His performances are gradually improving but more importantly for me the standards are not slipping and he is being consistent.

#16 - Dapo Mebude 7

Largely ineffective today. Needs a big man to support him and some through balls to run onto and given the right ball his pace and finishing will devastate defences. He didn't shine today but has already demonstrated that he could. It wasn't there today but I remain hopeful it will come. However, the clock will be ticking before the ineffective performances mount up to the Chislett level and then beyond.

#18 - Nesta Guinness-Walker 8

This could be a very different review given some very poor decisions in the first half from Nesta. When he won the ball on the edge of his own penalty area and turned into the box to lose possession to the forward was a strange one to start with. If the forward subsequently scored from that the score would of been much lower. He got away with that one and then calmed himself down to complete a fine performance at the back. Added to that he hit a thunderous shot to get us back into the game. A shot by Pressley was parried to Nesta who turned inside and let rip with a rocket into the back of the net. Well taken and fantastic to get us back in the game.

#22 - Ben Heneghan 8

I was toying with a 7 here but I don't think he really did anything wrong. Slipped over for the first goal but he was wrong footed by the forward (the whole defence was to be honest). If he managed to say on his feet would he of blocked the shot, who knows? He slipped and Gregory took his chance superbly. Not involved with the penalty and could of scored for a great Hartigan free kick that beat the keeper but him and the defender at the far post. Unlucky and for me deserving of an 8.

#30 - Paul Kalambayi 7

Similar to Henegan toying with an 8 but decided that the penalty was given against him, probably wasn't a foul but only he complained. It was his first game back after injury and better performances will follow. He was fine for large parts of the game but was not seen in the other half. Defensively he and Henegan worked well together but I feel he has better performances to come and today was finding his feet again.

-------THE BENCH-------

#19 - Aaron Pressley 9

(replaced Dapo Mebude - 61th Min)

Well, well, well. Another great performance from the man I didn't rate. The difference when on the pitch was dramatic. He gave an 'out' for the defence. He won headers and fed those players around him. Instrumental in the first goal and wanted the ball for the second. The first goal was started with Aaron winning a header back to Alexander who threaded a great ball to McCormick who set up Pressley in the box his shot was saved that fell for Nesta to rocket in. He was in the penalty area calling for the cross that went over his head and was met by Rudi to slot home.

#21 - Luke McCormick 9

(replaced Ethan Chislett - 62nd Min)

Came on at the same time as Pressley and they both changed the game. At 0-2 down they were introduced and Luke set up both goals. Receiving a great pass from Alexander, Luke teed up Pressley who's shot was saved. He was involved in everything positive after the Dons scored their first. He received a long pass in the 85th minute that he brought down and under control. Looked up saw the runners coming into the box and pin point crossed to Rudi's toes to slot home the equaliser. If he could do this every game then he will soon be a hero at this club forever. Great introduction and game from the youngster.

#2 - Henry Lawrence 8

(replaced Cheye Alexander - 76th min)

Not sure of why the changed happened as it was like for like but Lawrence is a player that I rate highly. He didn't put a foot wrong and supports the forwards well. It feels like there is four or five upfront all the time when he is playing. He didn't get a full game but he still showed what he is all about.

The Officials 6

Well I was frustrated with the officials today. Having watched the penalty decision live and then again and again on the tele-box I still cannot see what he has seen to give the penalty. If anything Paul has an arm at his back and Gregory and thrown himself to the ground waving his arms around. After that game changing decision he later watch three burly 6" defenders bundle over the petit Ayoub Assal for the ref to give them a free kick. He was corrected by the assistant. On more than one occasion I to cover my face whilst asking the question how has he given that decision. I often moan and shout at the officials and then after the game calm down and go ok he was ok. This time nope the opinion of him didn't change as I calmed down. Look at this way without that pen we had three points today.

The F.A. Cup and the week ahead.

The F.A. Cup draw was held on Sunday 17th October and it saw a home draw against a Vanarama National League North Division team. Which might be second place Brackley Town with one league defeat all season or Guiseley who has two league wins this season. The tie will be played on the first weekend of November and everyone will have to buy tickets. With the Cup game to look forward to next month the focus must return to the League One with two games in a week. First up we face last season's losing Play-Off finalist and follow that game we are then at home at the current 3rd placed team who thrashed Bolton Wanderers away 4-0 Saturday.

Preview

AFC Wimbledon v Burton Albion

Saturday 2nd October 2021 - Kick-Off 3pm

League One

The Wombles

Wimbledon come into this game on the back of four straight defeats. Admittedly one of those games was against Arsenal in the League Cup and weren't expected to get much or anything out of that game. The other were at home verses Plymouth Argyle, a game we should have won but Plymouth defended very well and took their chance really well. Shrewsbury Town & Rotherham United away where a point from both games would have been fair but again Shrewsbury took their chances when they came up and Rotherham were much the better side on the night.

The Oppo

Burton come into the game on the back of a big win against promotion favourites Portsmouth. They had a good start to the season with wins over Shrewsbury Town, Ipswich Town, and Sunderland. That was before a surprise defeat away to Cambridge United which seemed to have dented their confidence as they have been hit and miss thereafter. Draws with Cheltenham, Bolton Wanderers, and Gillingham. Followed by surprise defeat to Crewe Alexandra and a loss to Lincoln City before they bounced back against Portsmouth.

The Match

For this game the Dons are looking to arrest the slide down the table while I am sure Burton are looking to increase their confidence again with a win away from home. It will be an interesting encounter for me to see how we perform against a decent League One team that has just beaten one of the big boys.

THE GAME

Wimbledon (0) 1

McCormick 90'

v

Burton Albion (0) 1

Hemmings 66'

Quick Summary

An uneventful first half except for a couple of scrambles in the Wombles penalty area which saw Nik Tzanev pull off a great save and some great composure from Aaron Pressley as he won possession and passed the ball out of the penalty area and away from trouble.

If Burton had the better of the first half chances the second half was nearly all Wimbledon. Starting the brighter, chances were finally being created with the hope that at least one of them would be taken. Unfortunately, the deadeye threaded through ball to the unmarked striker from Anthony Hartigan was at the wrong end which allowed Hemmings the freedom of the penalty area as the Dons back four turned in panic to run back towards their own goal. They didn’t get close as Hemmings took his chance and put Albion one up. It appeared to be another “Plymouth job” as Burton tried to see out the away win. The Dons are made of plucky stuff and after a few more chances went begging a cleared corner was switched from the left to the right. Where Cheye Alexander swung in an inviting cross that was met by Pressley who flicked it onto the boot of Luke McCormick who thrashed it into the roof of the net. For the additional five minutes of injury time both teams could of nicked all the points but it finished as it begun, even.

Name Score (out of 10)

#1 - Nik Tzanev 8

Good game from Nik and he didn't put a foot wrong. The goal he conceded he could take little blame for and then kept us in the game on more than one occasion.

#2 - Henry Lawrence 7

I cannot say he had a bad game because he didn't. Did he play as well as I have seen him before? No, he was a bit under par today and didn't get as involved in the attacking side of things as he has previously which means I couldn't go above the seven he scored.

#4 -Alex Woodyard (C) 6

I have to start this by saying that Alex is the linchpin of this team. He wins possession and gives it to a team mate. He always wants the ball and will pick it up from the back four for the entire match. Anything started from open play would normally have started or gone through him. Today, that was true but for me his distribution was poor. There were too many passes going off for throws or long balls over the top to their back four. Again I struggle to say he had a bad game, he just had a bad game for his own high standards.

#5 - Will Nightingale 8

As the first review I will start by saying I love Will. He is Wimbledon through and through however he scares me. Initially he would be everywhere except in his position. You follow the ball and he would be there trying to win it for his team. He has settled and is a much improved centre back. He has got a clanger in him which is what scares me every game but he can normally cover that clanger with some speed and defensive strength to retrieve the situation. Today, he didn't need that because he didn't make a clanger. He was fine throughout the game.

#7 - Cheye Alexander 9

Cheye was one to the players that I have singled out to be run of the mill and not that well liked by me. He made too many errors in his early games and I have labelled him a poor right back. Today, it took some prompting from elsewhere for me to actually notice what a great game he had had. He was up and down that line and slinging in crosses all day but my prejudged opinion had to be nudged to notice. I am not too proud to admit when I missed something and I nearly did with this.

#8 - Anthony Hartigan 7

The controversial decision to only score a seven. Well, Anthony had a fantastic game he won more possession than any other Wimbledon player. He made more passes than any other team mate he also whipped in many crosses and was the dead ball king with some perfect deliveries. Why only a 7? Well one inch perfect pass was to Mr Hemmings on the 66 minute mark. Leaving him unmarked on the edge of the box with only the keeper to beat. Which he did. The goal was set up perfectly by Anthony and he must of heard the moans all around the ground. To his credit it didn't put him out of his stride and he went back to his play making ways and helped get us level.

#10 - Ayoub Assal 7

A marked man, seeing how impressive he was a the beginning of the season teams are learning about him and have got a game plan for him. He needs to come up with a plan to work around this plan. As yet he hasn't got a 'Plan B'. He had some great touches but lacked the impact that he had shown at the beginning of the season. Not getting booked is a bonus but not having a impact on the game is another.

#12 - Jack Rudoni 6

Only a six I hear you say, particularly if you were at the game. He is a quality player and can beat defenders like they are not there. Which he did on a few occasions in this game. What I want to see from him is an end product. It is there we have seen it in the past but in the last four games I've watched him I seen him get into great position in and around the goalmouth only to spurn the chance. Today, he blazed over from about seven yards. On another day he would of scored two today and been a hero. Instead he was a mystery missing man and was subbed off on the 79 minute mark.

#19 - Aaron Pressley 9

I will start this by saying I am in the anti-Aaron brigade. He looks lazy and uninterested and has a shot like a seventy year old after half a bottle of whiskey. I haven't rated him from his debut onward. I have heard the criticism and have agreed. In this game I paid a lot more attention to him and at half time I said he is having a good game. Many faces looked quizzically at me. (including non-friends just overhearing me). Point one - he was not getting any decent service to him. The ball was hoofed forward and he was expected to not just chase it but win it. This he did many times, and then he fed the players around him. But no one seems to notice this. Secondly he was in our penalty area winning the ball and clearing the lines ahead of the defenders. Again not seen, by the majority. His lazy running style seems to puts fans off him but he played a great game and generally a thankless one as well. He also had the assist for our only goal.

#21 - Luke McCormick 8

Scoring the equaliser today meant he got the attention of the man of the match voters at the ground. For me he battled hard throughout the game but was generally ineffective as an attacking force today. He persisted and managed to claim a great goal which was very well taken in the last minute. This helped him shine today which people like to see so he in the middle of the seven he scored.

#22 - Ben Heneghan 8

For me the best centre back at the club currently. He started the season very well and had contributed to a great start to the season. In recent matches, errors have crept into his game and the basic game plan seems to be to invite attackers to press the back four as we keep possession back there. When they eventually press to get the ball Ben hoofs the ball up the field where Aaron has to try and win it somehow. If Ben was a little more selective in distribution he would of got a higher score. He didn't do much wrong today and the defence were tidy for most of the today.

-------THE BENCH-------

#18 - Nesta Guinness-Walker 7

(replaced Henry Lawrence - 79th Min)

Nesta came off the bench to replace Lawrence at the left back position. He didn't have much to do the damage was done before his entrance and having 16 minutes (with injury time) to contribute he was on the pitch when the equaliser happened although the corner and then the cross came from the other side from him.

#16 - Dapo Mebude 7

(replaced Jack Rudoni - 79th Min)

Replaced Rudi and had a few touches in attack but like several games recently his touches are frustrating for us and him. It just feels like the ball has an anti Dapo feel about it. He tries to thread a pass and it hits the defenders ankle. A flick to beat the defender hits a divot and he runs passed it and it stops at the defenders feet. This continued today. Not that he had many chances to even try this, he came on and was largely ineffective but his pace is dangerous and he rarely gets to use it.

#11 - Ethan Chislett -

(replaced Luke McCormick 90+2 min)

He was on the pitch for three minutes and I don't think its fair to give him a grade for those minutes. He didn't do much wrong but equally didn't do much.

The Officials 9

I am a qualified referee who has left his registration wain. I criticise referee's and assistance more than most as I think I see things that others may miss. I will shout and point out their errors. I will very quietly mention that they were doing a good job. Today, I didn't shout at all at the officials at all. Could I give them a 10? Well, probably I could of but I want that perfect score to be for a perfect game. Did they do anything wrong? Equally, No... Am I showing my hypocrisy when comparing them to players in the team I support, well maybe but I have given the officials a higher score than 11 of our players for this game. There is a thing that I turn to the officials when we are losing it is almost like blaming them for us playing badly. That said, we were losing for close to 25 minutes and I still didn't blame the official which HAS to add to their score.