‘We got it right’ – AFC Wimbledon boss Johnnie Jackson delivers verdict on pre-season win over Charlton

AFC Wimbledon boss Johnnie Jackson says their 2-0 pre-season win over League One side Charlton will give his players confidence in their aims for the upcoming League Two campaign.

The Addicks went close early on, with Crystal Palace loanee Owen Goodman keeping out a shot from close range from Chuks Aneke.

Matty Godden also hit a shot just over the bar in the 27th minute after collecting the ball on the edge of the box.

The Dons went ahead midway through the second half when Josh Neufville crossed low and centre-back Ryan Johnson turned an effort beyond Charlton stopper Will Mannion.

Striker Josh Kelly secured the warm-up win in the 79th minute when he met Callum Maycock’s pass to score.

“It went really well – I was pleased with my team,” said Jackson.

“I knew it would be a tough test. Charlton are a really strong team but I thought we got it right out of possession.

“There weren’t loads of chances in the game. The two teams are quite similar in style and what we want to do.

“It was probably a bit of a stalemate at times – certainly in the first half.

“We were more aggressive with our press in the second half and it allowed us to win the ball back in some good areas to score a couple of decent goals.”

The Dons last 5-2 against Premier League side Brentford at Plough Lane last week. However, they have secured victories against Met Police and Peterborough in the build-up to the new campaign.

“We played Brentford here last week and we gave them a proper game,” added Jackson.

“The scoreline wasn’t a reflection of the game in my opinion.

“It was a defeat and you don’t want to get beat. 

“But I thought we conducted ourselves well and I knew today would be a really good test for us as well. 

“It gives my lads a lot of confidence in what we’re trying to achieve and how we’re working. 

“If you get it right, you can do well against really good teams.”

PICTURES: KEITH GILLARD