AFC Wimbledon boss Glyn Hodges: “It was our worst performance of the season”
BY DANIEL MARSH
Glyn Hodges admitted some of his players may have let the occasion get to them as he described Wimbledon’s 2-2 draw with Doncaster as their “worst performance of the season.”
The Dons took the lead on two separate occasions through Joe Pigott, although both goals were arguably against the run of play.
Matt Smith drew Doncaster level in the first half before James Coppinger’s deflected effort pegged the hosts back in stoppage time at the end of a memorable and emotional night – as Wimbledon returned to Plough Lane for the first time in almost three decades.
“It’s a great result but the performance wasn’t very good,” said the Dons manager.
“It was our worst performance of the season. I tried to take the emotion out of it, but it wasn’t to be. But we’ll take a point and move on.
“We said to stay calm and just play your football, but it affects everybody differently. It was quite emotional coming through the gates and coming out at the start. While some coped better than others, I felt collectively the group wasn’t at it’s best. It wasn’t quite the level of play we have been having recently.
“They had a lot of chances and they kept the ball really well – they’re a good side. But to then get that second goal with seven or eight minutes to go you think here you go – sadly it wasn’t to be. But we’ve picked up a positive point with not a great performance.”
Pigott was the Dons hero on the night, as he netted with two smart finishes – including the privilege of becoming the first scorer for the Dons back at Plough Lane. Pigott has been in scintillating form recently, and Hodges was quick to praise his star striker after he netted his fifth and sixth goals of the campaign.
“We’re pleased for Joe. He’s been the talisman, he’s got the goals over the last couple of years for us. It’s nice to see him score two quality ice for him.”
PHOTO: SEAN GOSLING
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