‘Fully deserved’ – Johnnie Jackson reacts as Wimbledon continue unbeaten League Two start with 3-0 win at Sutton

AFC Wimbledon boss Johnnie Jackson said his side “fully deserved” all three points against Sutton United on Saturday afternoon after his side ran out 3-0 winners at Gander Green Lane.

Wimbledon had chances in the first half to take the lead, with James Tilley and Ali Al-Hamadi both seeing efforts at Jack Rose’s goal go close.

Sutton hit the post early in the second half through Josh Coley.

Johnnie Jackson’s side eventually took the lead – and scored what turned out to be the winner – in the 63rd minute. 

James Tilley whipped a free-kick into the penalty area and Ryan Johnson was left unmarked to plant a header beyond the Sutton keeper to put the Dons ahead.

Alex Bass was called into action minutes later, keeping out Ben Goodlife’s header with a superb stop.

Wimbledon doubled their lead in the 79th minute when Harry Pell met Jake Reeves’ corner at the back post to score with his first touch.

James Tilley scored his fourth of the season and wrapped up all three points when he cut in on his left foot and drilled a low shot beyond Rose.

The Dons are unbeaten after their first four outings of the 2023-24 League Two campaign.

“Really good – a strong performance,” said Jackson.

“We fully deserved the win. We had the better chances in the first half and could have gone in leading, but we didn’t.

“We had to whether a little bit of pressure at the start of the second half. It’s natural – it’s always going to happen here.

“Once we got on top and scored the goal, we controlled the game brilliantly – it was a worthy win.

“We’re in really good shape, playing really well and creating a lot of chances. We look solid. 

“This is a tough place to come. Especially for us, as there is more on the game than most opposition when they come here because of the rivalry.

“We needed to be up for it and match their physicality and fight. We did that.”

PICTURES: KEITH GILLARD