‘Something special’ – Johnnie Jackson reacts as AFC Wimbledon knock out Championship side Coventry in EFL Cup first round clash

AFC Wimbledon knocked out Championship side Coventry in the first round of the EFL Cup thanks to late goals from Omar Bugiel and Ryan McLean.

Coventry took the lead via the penalty spot in the 16th minute when Gustavo Hamer played a defence-splitting pass to Haji Wright. 

The American was brought down inside the area by Joe Lewis and Matty Godden converted past Nik Tzanev.

Wimbledon pulled level in the 86th minute when substitute Ryan McLean burst down the left-hand side, with his cross landing at the edge of the box for former Sutton striker Omar Bugiel.

The 29-year-old took aim at the first time of asking and drilled a shot beyond Brad Collins into the bottom right-hand corner.

Wimbledon then went ahead in the 91st minute when Isaac Ogundere crossed at the back post for Ryan McLean to score the first goal of his professional career, having joined the Dons in the summer from non-league side Hereford.

The Dons will play Premier League side Chelsea in the next round.

“It’s got to be up there,” said Jackson, when asked if it was one of his favourite games in management to date.

“There is something special about this place under the lights during midweek.

“To come up against a team with that quality – a side that just missed out on the Premier League by a kick – it was a great test.

“To come out on top and beat them, I’m so happy for everyone.

“I’m buzzing. I felt we had an impetus in the game. 

“There was probably a lull midway through the second half when Coventry were quite comfortable, but we made the changes and that gave us a freshness and energy – I felt like we could score.

“Once we equalised, we all felt like a winner might be coming. The atmosphere in the stadium changed and the players believed.”