Mark Robinson on why his AFC Wimbledon side are comeback kings

Mark Robinson has identified several reasons why his AFC Wimbledon side has developed a never-say-die mentality to pick up points from losing positions.

The Dons, who are fourth in League One and three points away from the top of the table, have fought their way back to pick up two draws and three wins in seven league games so far this season.

Robinson’s side completed their most recent comeback on Saturday against Morecambe, coming from 3-2 down to win 4-3 in stoppage time thanks to an Ayoub Assal strike from inside the area.

“It’s a number of things,” Robinson explained to the South London Press when asked how his side continues to produce exhilarating performances.

“It’s how they are as a group. The culture and environment that we have got is so strong that they’re genuinely in it together, giving them the spirit they need.

“There is a real huge belief in the way we are trying to play. They are loving playing their football, which is so important; because if you love what you’re doing, that in itself means you just keep going. And we’re physically fit, which means we can keep going right until the last second.”

Assal, who scored the winner on Saturday, has become a prominent fixture in the first team under Robinson – and the 19-year-old demonstrated his calmness under pressure to volley home a thunderous strike in the 94th minute to pick up all three points.

Robinson said: “I have always found him very mature in lots of ways. People talk about experience, but experience only comes with age. It’s the way you conduct yourself.

“In terms of the way Ayoub conducts himself in his performances, I have always found him way above his years. The finish really just showed his ability as well and the confidence to do it.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD